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Things to Do
There's no shortage of things to do during your stay in Durham - a county full of surprises.
No visit to the county would be complete without a visit to the world-famous Durham Cathedral, which together with the adjacent Castle forms a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Durham City. And if you love history you can delve further into the county's fascinating past at exciting attractions in the Durham Dales, Durham Coast and the Vale of Durham including Beamish - The living Museum of the North, England's largest open air museum. Plus, don't miss the spectacular live open air night show Kynren, an Epic Tale of England, which takes place in Bishop Auckland every Saturday throughout the summer.
Take some tranquil time out in the county's many green spaces, country parks and gardens, or get active as you explore the Durham Dales of Teesdale and Weardale, and the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - packed with walking and cycling routes and dotted with hidden gems and historical treasure troves.
From a day at the races to international cricket, golfing holidays and indulgent spa breaks, you'll be spoilt for choice in Durham.
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Adventure Valley
Discover a world of family adventures at Adventure Valley, the North East’s biggest family…
Museum of Archaeology
Enjoy our new special exhibition exploring the rich prehistoric and Roman archaeology and history…
Gala Durham
The Gala Theatre is a superb arts venue in the heart of Durham City with 500 seat theatre, 2 cinema…
The Plotters' Forest at Raby Castle
The Plotters’ Forest at Raby Castle offers a thrilling mix of challenge, discovery and intrigue for…
Diggerland
Diggerland is the UK’s most unique construction-themed adventure park where guests can drive, ride…
Durham Cathedral Tower
Enjoy spectacular views of the historic city of Durham and the surrounding countryside by climbing…
Durham History Hunt
Find 26 stops each offering a unique perspective on times gone by. Discover the reason why Durham…
Wharton Park
This VisitEngland accredited attraction Wharton Park commands spectacular views across Durham City.…
Chester-le-Street Riverside Park
Created in the 1930s, Riverside Park has always been popular with visitors. It was redeveloped in…
Grassholme Observatory
Waterside Parks purpose built observatory, based at Grassholme Reservoir near Barnard Castle,…
1950's Welfare Hall at Beamish
Experience the excitement and community spirit of the 1950's with our new welfare hall.
Durham Cathedral
Thought by many to be the finest example of Norman church architecture in England, with the tombs…
Hardwick Park
This VisitEngland accredited attraction is an 18th Century parkland featuring beautiful views, rich…
Durham Town Hall
The Town Hall has been central to life in Durham city for more than 650 years. Learn about the…
High Force Waterfall
High Force is one of the most impressive waterfalls in England. The River Tees has been plunging…
Auckland Castle - The Auckland Project
Positioned high above the meandering River Wear, Auckland Castle was once home to the Prince…
The Spanish Gallery - The Auckland Project
The Spanish Gallery is unique in Britain, telling the story of the Spanish Golden Age in the 16th…
Durham Castle
Durham Castle is part of the Durham City World Heritage Site. Entrance by guided tour only. Opening…

- 1Adventure Valley
- 2Museum of Archaeology
- 3Gala Durham
- 4The Plotters' Forest at Raby Castle
- 5Diggerland
- 6Durham Cathedral Tower
- 7Durham History Hunt
- 8Wharton Park
- 9Chester-le-Street Riverside Park
- 10Grassholme Observatory
- 111950's Welfare Hall at Beamish
- 12Durham Cathedral
- 13Hardwick Park
- 14Durham Town Hall
- 15High Force Waterfall
- 16Auckland Castle - The Auckland Project
- 17The Spanish Gallery - The Auckland Project
- 18Durham Castle
