Autumn Breaks

Relax and unwind this Autumn on a short break in Durham. With stunning coastal and countryside landscapes to explore, exciting events, tempting food and drink, and cosy accommodation, Durham’s the place to be this Autumn.

Rekindle your love of the great outdoors as you explore Durham’s stunning coast and countryside. Wrap up warm and take a stroll along the dramatic cliff tops of the Durham Heritage Coast, soak up the beautiful autumnal colours as the heather moors of the Durham Dales and North Pennines AONB and UNESCO Global Geopark take on a rich russet glow. Or enjoy the crisp autumn sunshine as you crunch through the fallen leaves on a walk at Hamsterley Forest or along Durham City’s river banks.

As the days get shorter and the nights draw in Durham’s dark skies come alive as stargazing season begins. From Dark Sky Discovery Sites, to Grassholme Observatory - the UK’s newest observatory, and cosy dark sky friendly accommodation, there’s lots of ways to enjoy Durham’s dazzling dark skies.

No matter what the weather, you’ll find a amazing range of indoor and outdoor attractions to discover across the county, and a packed autumnal events programme to enjoy. See Durham City in a new light during Lumiere Durham - the UK Light Art Biennial 16 - 19 November, explore the wonders of the universe at the North Pennines Stargazing Festival 20 October - 5 November, and Durham Book Festival will be returning with an exciting programme of events, workshops and talks in October (dates TBC).