Q: What is Durham best known for?
A: Durham is known for its cathedral, castle and rich history. It’s also home to the beautiful Durham Heritage Coast and rolling Durham Dales.
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Things to Do
Things to Do in Durham: Attractions, Activities and Experiences
What are the best things to do in Durham, England?
Durham, England offers a wide mix of attractions, from iconic landmarks like Durham Cathedral and Castle UNESCO World Heritage Site to family-friendly activities, museums and outdoor adventures. Whether you're planning a city break or exploring the wider county, you'll find historic sites, scenic walks and unique experiences for all ages.
What are the top attractions in Durham?
Explore some of the most popular Durham attractions:
- Beamish, The Living Museum of the North
- Crook Hall Gardens
- Dalton Park Outlet and Outdoors
- Durham Heritage Coast
- Durham UNESCO World Heritage Site: Cathedral and Castle
- Durham University Attractions
- Hamsterley Forest
- Kynren: An Epic Tale of England
- Locomotion
- Raby Castle, Gardens and Deer Park
- The Auckland Project
- The Bowes Museum
- Ushaw Historic House, Chapels and Gardens
What outdoor activities can you do in Durham?
Durham is ideal for nature and adventure:
- Walking routes in the Durham Dales
- Coastal walks along the Durham Heritage Coast
- Cycling trails and nature reserves
- Stargazing in the North Pennines National Landscape
What are the best family things to do in Durham?
- Interactive museums like Beamish Museum
- Outdoor adventure parks
- Seasonal family-friendly events
FAQs
Q: Are there free things to do in Durham?
A: Yes, including walks, beautiful parks and some attractions.
Q: Is Durham good for families?
A: Yes, with museums, parks and events for all ages.
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Chester-le-Street Riverside Park
Created in the 1930s, Riverside Park has always been popular with visitors. It was redeveloped in…
Causey Arch and Picnic Area
Picnic site which is home to the world’s oldest surviving single arch railway bridge.
Durham University Oriental Museum
Explore Ancient Egypt and Western Asia, the Himalayas, China, Japan, Korea and Southeast Asia all…
Beamish - The Living Museum of the North
Discover an amazing journey through time at Beamish Museum as you travel back in time to the 1820s,…
Durham Cathedral Tours
Discover the hidden history of Durham Cathedral with one of our regular guided tours. Tours are…
Auckland Palace - The Auckland Project
Positioned high above the meandering River Wear, Auckland Palace was once home to the Prince…
Durham University Botanic Garden
Set in countryside and mature woodland. Plant collections from North America, Himalayas and China,…
Derwent Waterside Park
Derwent Waterside Park is the perfect place for fun, laughter and the great fresh air with the…
The Spanish Gallery - The Auckland Project
The Spanish Gallery is unique in Britain, telling the story of the Spanish Golden Age in the 16th…
Horden Grasslands Local Nature Reserve
This coastal site has impressive views to the north and south. On a clear day, you will be able to…
Binchester Roman Fort
Remains of Commandant's house and neighbouring bath-house containing one of the best preserved…
Raby Castle, Park and Gardens
Welcome to Raby Castle, Park and Gardens. A stunning complete medieval castle in County Durham with…
Seaham Harbour Marina
The multi award-winning Seaham Marina is County Durham's one and only marina. The marina provides…
Bowlees Visitor Centre
Situated amidst stunning woodland, near to Low and High Force waterfalls and surrounded by rolling…
North Pennines National Landscape
The North Pennines National Landscape incorporates much of the Durham Dales, and is a stunning…

- 1Chester-le-Street Riverside Park
- 2Causey Arch and Picnic Area
- 3Durham University Oriental Museum
- 4Beamish - The Living Museum of the North
- 5Durham Cathedral Tours
- 6Auckland Palace - The Auckland Project
- 7Durham University Botanic Garden
- 8Derwent Waterside Park
- 9The Spanish Gallery - The Auckland Project
- 10Horden Grasslands Local Nature Reserve
- 11Binchester Roman Fort
- 12Raby Castle, Park and Gardens
- 13Seaham Harbour Marina
- 14Bowlees Visitor Centre
- 15North Pennines National Landscape



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