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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Auckland Palace - The Auckland Project
Positioned high above the meandering River Wear, Auckland Palace was once home to the Prince…
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…
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,…
Derwent Waterside Park
Derwent Waterside Park is the perfect place for fun, laughter and the great fresh air with the…
Binchester Roman Fort
Remains of Commandant's house and neighbouring bath-house containing one of the best preserved…
Bowlees Visitor Centre
Situated amidst stunning woodland, near to Low and High Force waterfalls and surrounded by rolling…
Chester-le-Street Riverside Park
Created in the 1930s, Riverside Park has always been popular with visitors. It was redeveloped in…
Durham University Botanic Garden
Set in countryside and mature woodland. Plant collections from North America, Himalayas and China,…
Durham University Oriental Museum
Explore Ancient Egypt and Western Asia, the Himalayas, China, Japan, Korea and Southeast Asia all…
Seaham Harbour Marina
The multi award-winning Seaham Marina is County Durham's one and only marina. The marina provides…
Raby Castle, Park and Gardens
Welcome to Raby Castle, Park and Gardens. A stunning complete medieval castle in County Durham with…
Durham Cathedral Tours
Discover the hidden history of Durham Cathedral with one of our regular guided tours. Tours are…
North Pennines National Landscape
The North Pennines National Landscape incorporates much of the Durham Dales, and is a stunning…
The Spanish Gallery - The Auckland Project
The Spanish Gallery is unique in Britain, telling the story of the Spanish Golden Age in the 16th…
Causey Arch and Picnic Area
Picnic site which is home to the world’s oldest surviving single arch railway bridge.

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



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