Take a Step Back in Time

Heritage is at the heart of Durham. See history come to life and watch the dramatic spectacle of Kynren - An Epic Tale of England in this historical tour of a legendary county. Find out why Durham wears its industrial heritage with pride.

In 1913 the Great Northern Coalfield reached its peak of production, where coal mining shaped the lives and landscapes of Durham and the wider North East region.

At multi award-winning open-air Beamish, The Living Museum of the North explore this ever-fascinating story with costumed guides that bring to life the hard times and good times, the wash days and work days and the longforgotten pastimes of yesteryear. Explore the 350-acre site by open-top tram.

Try some treats in the sweet shop or bakery in the 1900s Town, then stroll through an 18th century Georgian landscape towards Pockerley Old Hall. And if the Steam Elephant on the Pockerley Waggonway is running, hop aboard this authentic steam train experience taking in the iconic sights and smells of Britain’s early railways.

The Mining Art Gallery in Bishop Auckland showcases the artistic skills of Durham coal miners, who include Tom McGuinness (1926-2006) and Norman Cornish (1919-2014). The remarkable artwork captured the dark world of the mines, as well as life above ground in mining communities. And at the Spanish Gallery visitors can immerse themselves in the Spanish Golden Age, with the UK’s largest collection of 16th and 17th century Spanish artworks outside of London. Both galleries form part of The Auckland Project visitor destination.

Be sure to round off an evening at Kynren - An Epic Tale of England, with a whistle-stop tour of 2000 years of British history with the live action open-air spectacular that seats guests in the ‘tribune’ to experience an extravaganza of music, drama and fireworks - and even a gaggle of geese! 
Kynren performances take place during the summer, visit kynren.com for dates.

Did you know…

The Spanish Gallery at The Auckland Project is the UK’s first gallery dedicated to the art, history and culture of Spain. 

To request PDF copies of our Group Friendly itineraries please email tradeinfo@discoverdurham.co.uk

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Tour suggestions…

Half day:
Beamish Museum

Full day:
Beamish Museum plus the Mining Art
Gallery

Evening:
Kynren – An Epic Tale of England
June - September
Visit kynren.com for performance dates

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Hotel suggestions…

Ramside Hall Hotel

South Causey Inn

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Useful information…

Coach travelling time:
Beamish to Bishop Auckland
(via A1) - 50 mins

SatNav:
Beamish Museum DH9 0RG
Kynren DL14 7SF
Mining Art Gallery DL14 7NP
Ramside Hall Hotel DH1 1TD
South Causey Inn DH9 0LS