Gardens & Parks
Auckland Park
Find out how the Medieval Prince Bishops lived, entertained and hunted at Auckland Park in Bishop Auckland and spot the resident deer in the 250-year-old deer park. If you’re visiting Auckland Castle, we’d recommend exploring the park and deer house during your visit. .
Durham Dales
No list of Durham's great outdoors would be complete without a mention of the Durham Dales and North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a European and UNESCO Global Geopark where you will find tumbling waterfalls, sweeping moorland views and flora and fauna in abundance.
Durham University Botanic Garden
An 18 acre garden in mature woodland on the outskirts of Durham City. Exotic trees from America and the Himalayas, plus the Prince Bishops Garden, tropical house, cactus house, butterflies, insects and plant sales.
Hamsterley Forest
Although not technically a garden, Hamsterley Forest is a joy for nature lovers. The 5,000 acre mixed woodland includes a forest drive and woodland walks.
Raby Castle Gardens
Raby Castle is surrounded by 200 acres of lush green parkland, where herds of Red and Fallow Deer live wild. You will enjoy exploring 5 acres of traditional 18th Century ornamental Walled Gardens including fabulous Yew Hedges, trees, plants and ornaments from the 18th and 19th Centuries.
The Bowes Museum Grounds
In Teesdale in the Durham Dales you can also explore the tranquil gardens of The Bowes Musem, one of the country's most fascinating museum experiences. Enjoy 22 acres fo parkland, have a picnic, or simply enjoy a stroll around these delightful gardens, originally designed by John and Josephine Bowes themselves.
Hardwick Country Park
The park has survived since the 1750s when its then owner, John Burdon, created a sprawling ornamental park. This beautiful 18th Century park was recently lovingly restored. Situated next to Hardwick Hall Hotel.
Wharton Park
Wharton Park, which re-opens on this May bank holiday following developments to the visitor centre and play area, is a stunning urban oasis and home to the famous viewpoint of Durham’s Cathedral and Castle UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Whitworth Hall Country Park
Hand-feed the resident red and fallow deer, enjoy the ornamental lake and woodland walk. The Victorian walled garden features Britain's most northerly vineyard.