Only in Durham
Durham is a county filled with incredible attractions, outstanding accommodation, extraordinary experiences, and many unique hidden gems you won’t find anywhere else
Did you know Durham is one of four places shortlisted to be the next UK City of Culture in 2025? From vibrant festivals to inspiring museums and spectacular landscapes, culture is at the heart of everything they do.
Immerse yourself in the Spanish Golden Age at the UK’s first gallery dedicated to the art, history and culture of Spain in Bishop Auckland. Lose yourself in distant galaxies as you explore the wonders of the night sky at Grassholme Observatory, and discover more than 1,000 years of stories at Durham Cathedral Museum, home to the remarkable treasures of St Cuthbert.
Kynren – An Epic Tale of England returns to its spectacular Bishop Auckland stage this summer, where you can travel through 2,000 years of history, myth and legend all in one evening at this dazzling outdoor-theatre spectacular. New for 2022, let your little rebels run wild at Raby Castle’s treetop adventure playground – The Plotters’ Forest. Hidden away inside the castle's mysterious woodland, The Plotters’ Forest offers a thrilling mix of challenge, discovery and intrigue for all ages.
Join the Jubilee celebrations this June as the county comes alive with an exciting programme of events to mark Her Majesty The Queen's Platinum Jubilee, including an extra special Fina and the Golden Cape equine stunt show at Kynren, and a traditional 1950s-style street party at Beamish Museum’s Front Street Terrace – the museum’s newest exhibit, part of the 1950s Town.
Whatever your age or ability you’ll love exploring Durham’s great outdoors, with hundreds of miles of walking and cycling trails to discover. Go off the beaten track and find remarkable natural wonders and hidden gems, including High Force, one of England’s largest and most spectacular waterfalls. Head to Derwent Waterside Park to spot wildlife from the water’s edge and blow the cobwebs away as you soak up the view from the Durham Heritage Coast clifftop trails.
Whether you fancy a relaxing countryside escape or an action-packed family get-together, you’ll find your perfect staycation in Durham. Hit the open road in an Aston Martin and explore the Durham Dales’ picturesque scenery with a classic car break at Headlam Hall Hotel and Spa. For a night of luxury, escape to Ramside Hall Hotel’s fabulous new treehouses, where you can relax and unwind on your very own private veranda, complete with bubbling hot tub and relaxing sauna. Head to Teesdale Cheesemakers for a glamping experience like no other with their cheesemaking getaways. Salting, curding, turning; you’ll experience it all when you make your own cheese, followed by a night under the stars in a cosy off-grid shepherd’s hut.
