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Welcome to the Itinerary Planner. Use this tool to build your own journey or choose from an exciting range of specially selected tours.

To build your own Itinerary, click Add to Excursion to add an item to your Itinerary basket.

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  • Dark skies in Durham at Raby Castle

    Dark Skies

    Large open moorland and views that stretch for miles make Durham ideal for stargazing.

  • Food and drink in Durham this autumn

    A Taste of Durham

    The secret ingredient to a perfect break is enjoying great food and drink, and in Durham you'll find plenty on the menu.

  • Autumn in Durham high force

    Explore the Great Outdoors

    Walking and cycling are great ways to explore our breathtaking county, so why not get outdoors on two feet or two wheels this autumn.

  • Kids playing with leaves in Durham October Half Term

    October Half Term in Durham

    We’ve picked some of the top ways you can have a safe and enjoyable family staycation or day out in Durham.

  • Stunning stays in Durham

    Stunning Stays

    Enjoy space, peace and tranquillity this autumn at one of Durham’s rural retreats or coastal hideaways.

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    Dog Friendly Durham

    With rivers and reservoirs to explore, wonderful woodland walks, dog-friendly beaches to make a splash and so much space to run around, you and your furry family members will have a great time exploring Durham.

You are here > Home > Inspire Me > Short Break Ideas > Autumn Breaks

Autumn Breaks

After the long weeks in lock-down, heading outdoors seems more appealing than ever. And in Durham we've got plenty of wide-open spaces for you to explore this Autumn.

The heather moors and colourful hay meadows of the Durham Dales and North Pennines AONB and UNESCO Global Geopark take on a rich russet glow during the autumn months.

Wrap up warm and take a stroll along the dramatic cliff tops of the Durham Heritage Coast, 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. Take your pick from 10 official Dark Sky Discovery Sites across the Durham Dales, explore distant galaxies at Grassholme Observatory - the UK’s newest observatory, or stay at a dark sky friendly accommodation so you can stargaze until you fall asleep. 

No matter what the weather, you’ll find a amazing range of indoor and outdoor attractions to discover across the county, many of which have been awarded the VisitEngland ‘We’re Good to Go’ quality mark – which lets you know they have clear processes in place to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable visit.

Find out more about things to see and do, and get more inspiration for a short break here.

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