What Not to Miss in Darlington this Summer
Summer is quickly approaching, so it's time to start planning some sunny days out
Take a look at this list of seven things to do this summer in the borough and start planning your trip.
Play in a Giant Sandpit at Darlington By The Sea
Oh we do like to be beside the seaside! From Saturday 19th to Wednesday 23rd July, Darlington Market Square will be transformed into a giant beach. This summer event always makes a splash with families, bringing a huge sandpit to the town, complete with plenty of buckets and spades to craft the perfect sandcastle. There’ll also be face painting, activities, food, and deck chairs to relax in, so this is the perfect way to spend a family day in the town centre.
Enjoy the Spa Garden at Rockliffe Hall
For relaxation, look no further than the five-star Rockliffe Hall spa with its incredible Spa Garden. No matter the weather, the garden is always a haven of calm, with an infinity pool, panoramic views, tepidarium loungers, and a glass-fronted sauna. You can add 90 minutes in the Spa Garden to any spa day at Rockliffe Hall, so you’ll get to enjoy the hydrotherapy pool, thermal therapy rooms, experience showers and foot spas too.
Get an Ice Cream at Archer’s
Archer’s Ice Cream is a family-run, third generation dairy farm and ice cream parlour in the Darlington countryside, and is a total must-visit in the summer! Their fantastic range of award-winning, luxury ice cream is produced from their own dairy cows on the farm and they use as many local ingredients as possible to make the best flavours, like fruits, fudge and honey. There’s always so many flavours to choose from, and each scoop tastes soft and fresh – amazing for a hot summer’s day.
Visit Thornton Hall Gardens
If you love gardening or being in nature, you’ll love this hidden gem, just a five-minute drive from Archer’s Ice Cream. The Grade I-listed home was built in around 1550 and is surrounded by the most beautiful gardens with incredible flower displays, sculptures, water features, and secret areas with quirky seating. There’s also a tea room where you can enjoy coffee, cake and sandwiches, or you can pre-book afternoon tea. The gardens are only open for nine days in the summer, with the 2025 opening and plant sale happening on Monday 26th May. Find more information about the open days at thorntonhallgardens.co.uk.
Dine Al Fresco in the Town Centre
Darlington town centre is home to a plethora of incredible places to dine and a vast array of cuisines. And when the sun is shining, there’s nothing quite like dining al fresco! To be transported to the Mediterranean, sit in the sun outside The Old Yard Tapas Bar on Bondgate with a mix of small plates and wine. If you fancy breakfast or lunch with a view, Hash on Coniscliffe Road has a cute rooftop terrace to enjoy. Or if you’re looking for pub vibes, Hole In The Wall in the Market Square turns the cobbles outside into a piazza that’s perfect for traditional ales and hearty food.
Find the Perfect Holiday Outfit
When it comes to shopping for your summer holiday wardrobe, Darlington town centre is a total must. The Cornmill Centre is a haven for people who love to browse high street names, like Next, New Look and Primark. From floaty dresses and lightweight blouses, to sandals and sunglasses to finish the look, this shopping centre has everything you need and more to have you looking and feeling your best on your travels. You can also visit House Of Fraser on High Row, which is home to top quality pieces from huge brands, such as Biba, Boss and French Connection. There are shopping options for absolutely everyone!
Explore Hopetown Darlington
Hopetown Darlington is the North East’s newest railway heritage attraction and would make a great day out for families this summer. The site is free entry, so you can enjoy the museum, S&DR200 exhibitions and most of the summer event programme at no cost, then there’s the amazing Wagon Woods playground and café to enjoy. The site is filled with interactive elements and things to do, and of course, lots of local railway history, so it’s great to keep kids entertained and for grown ups who want to know more about the area’s heritage.
