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County-Wide Lumiere
Finchale Priory - Solitude
On the banks of the River Wear you’ll find the tranquil setting of Finchale Priory. Founded in 1196, the once grand priory was an outpost of Durham Cathedral and used as a holiday retreat for the monks of Durham. Now the ruins of ruins of this fascinating building and surrounding woodland are open for all to explore.
What’s nearby…
With six huge play zones to discover, farmyard animals and more, you’re certain to have a brilliant family day out at Adventure Valley - the North East's biggest family attraction. Hop onboard the valley express train ride, make a splash at the Tornado Aqua Blaster, and go wild at the Runaway Ranch. Meet the friendly animals down at the undercover farmyard and enjoy live magic in the showtime theatre.
Close to Finchale you’ll find the perfect spot for wildlife watching and bird spotting at Low Newton Local Nature Reserve and Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve. Enjoy a refreshing stroll through varied landscapes teeming with life, even throughout the winter months. Check out our interactive Nature and Wildlife Calendar to see what natural wonders you can spot in Durham’s great outdoors during your stay.
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Raby Castle – Castle of Light
The landmark location of Raby Castle, Park and Gardens is the perfect setting to visit this winter. Grab a freshly ground coffee to go from the Stables Café and enjoy a cosy walk through the castle’s 200-acre deer park, where you’ll be able to get a close-up view of the resident Red and Fallow Deer and Longhorn Cattle. Follow the trail through the 18th century Walled Garden and let the little ones let off some steam in the woodland play area. The Park and Gardens are open daily from 10am till 4pm with the Castle closed during the winter months.
What’s nearby…
Just a short drive from Raby Castle you’ll find the bustling market town of Barnard Castle. Here you’ll find amazing places to eat, interesting independent retailers and antique shops, as well as a fantastic farmers market. Set up high above the town below you’ll find the ruins of Barnard Castle. The fortress is named after its 12th century founder - Bernard de Balliol, and offers fantastic views across the Tees Gorge.
Barnard Castle is also home to The Bowes Museum, home to internationally significant fine and decorative art collections. This magnificent French-style chateau has been delighting visitors for over 120 years. Alongside the outstanding permanents exhibits you’ll find a packed programme of exciting events.
And overlooking the River Tees you’ll find the ruins of Egglestone Abbey, just a short 40-minute walk from Barnard Castle. Here you can explore the ancient ruins and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
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Seaham – Go with the flow/Swim against the tide and Peterlee – Apollo 50
The Durham Heritage Coast stretches for 11 miles, from Seaham in the north to Crimdon in the south. Along the route you’ll find many wonderful places to explore, from Nose’s Point Nature Reserve, to the famous Blackhall Rocks Beach and Castle Eden Dene, which is one of the UK’s last wild woodlands, which once covered much of Britain.
No visit to Seaham is complete without saying hello to Tommy, as he’s affectionately known by locals. Created by local artist Ray Lonsdale, the imposing ‘1101’ statue is named after the first minute of peace, to commentate the end of WWI. Standing 9ft 5 inches tall, the lone soldier stands guard at Seaham seafront.
Along Terrace Green and down in Seaham Marina Harbour you’ll find quaint seaside shops alongside quaint cafés and tempting eateries, serving up delicious home-made food throughout the day and into the evening.
What's nearby...
A short 5 minute drive from Seaham and Peterlee you can shop til you drop at Dalton Park. The biggest outlet shopping centre in the North East features 65 stores selling over 200 designer brands alongside high street favourites.
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Ushaw Historic House, Chapels and Gardens – Hymn to the big wheel
Ushaw Historic House, Chapels and Gardens is a real hidden gem. Visitors can wander through the beautiful gardens and surrounding parkland, uncovering the fascinating history of Ushaw as they explore the many magnificent chapels housed within. Ushaw is well known for its exciting events and activities programme, with something for all ages to enjoy throughout the year.
What’s Nearby…
Ushaw is only a short drive from Durham City, where you’ll find some incredible attractions to explore, including Durham Town Hall, and of course the world-famous Durham UNESCO World Heritage Site of Durham Cathedral and Castle.
Enjoy the city’s green spaces with a stroll along the riverbanks - you could even set out on the Durham Heritage Sculpture Trail and see how many pieces of public art you can spot along the way. Or head to the Durham University Botanic Garden to discover something new around every corner.
A short drive from Ushaw you’ll find the firm family-favourite, Hall Hill Farm. Meet the many friendly farmyard animals, hop on a tractor and trailer ride, jump into the soft play area, enjoy a round of crazy golf and more!
And for those who love the outdoors, Ushaw is surrounded by beautiful rolling hills and wonderful woodland, filled with many walks and cycling routes. Follow the Lanchester Valley Railway Path or head to Malton Picnic Area for incredible views.
