Durham City skyline is one of the most amazing panoramas in England. It is located in the North East of England and famous for Durham Castle and Durham Cathedral.
1. Durham Cathedral
Durham Cathedral is one of the greatest buildings in Europe and grandly sits on a rocky cliff next to the castle with the medieval city below. There is also a river and the profile of the World Heritage Site is locally recognisable to people travelling on the East Coast Main Line.
The Cathedral’s architecture is the oldest surviving building with a stone vaulted ceiling of such a large size. Other Norman buildings in Britain were modified and often not recognisable, which makes Durham Cathedral one of the world’s greatest cathedrals.
If you’re visiting Durham for the day, the cathedral is a great place to visit where you will find all about its history. It makes a great day out with friends if you plan on going sightseeing around Durham.
Opening times
The Cathedral is open for worship and private prayer between 7.30am and 9.30am Monday to Saturday; 7.45am and 12.30pm on Sunday.
The Cathedral is open to 6.00pm Monday to Saturday, and 5.30pm on Sunday.
Prices
Adults: £7.50
Children aged 5-18: £2.50
Under 5s: free.
Friends of Durham Cathedral, members of Durham Cathedral Choir Association, Cathedral Volunteers, Students and Unwaged: £6.00
Address
The Cathedral Office
The College
Durham
DH1 3EH
Contact details
0191 386 4266
www.durhamcathedral.co.uk
2. The Bowes Museum
The Bowes Museum is an iconic and award winning museum, which is in the heart of the vibrant market town of Barnard Castle. It has a nationally renowned art collection of fine and decorative arts. The museum was built in the 19th century by John and Josephine Bowes and has a lot of history within its walls.
If you are an art lover, The Bowes Museum is a great place to visit. Why not take a stroll around the galleries and relax in the gardens? There are so many collections to see and learn about, such as archaeology, ceramics, and glass, fashion and textiles, fine art, furniture and more. There are various events and exhibitions that take place at the museum, so it’s worth a check to see what’s on before you visit.
It’s a great place to visit with friends or family and also offers educational tours for school trips.
Opening times
Visit website for more information
Prices
View website for more information
Address
The Bowes Museum
Barnard Castle
Co Durham
DL12 8NP
Contact details
01833 690606
www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk
3. Crook Hall and Gardens
Crook Hall and Gardens is a 13th century Grade 1 listed medieval hall in Durham City and provides spectacular background to the stunning gardens that are in the foreground. It is a popular tourist destination from all over the world and leave feeling inspired by the English themed gardens.
Why not take a visit to the hall and gardens and relax with a homemade cream tea in the café? The gardens aren’t far from Durham’s city centre, which is perfect for exploring the popular market nearby.
You won’t be disappointed when visiting the gardens, so make sure to stop by when you visit Durham. It would make a perfect day out with friends, where you can admire the gardens and take a historic tour around the hall.
Opening times
Crook Hall and Gardens is open every
Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday: 10am to 5pm
Prices
£7.50 per Adult, £7.00 per Concession and £5 per Child.
Annual Prices = Adult – £19.50, Concession – £17.50 and a Family – £39.50
(November to March there is a discounted price of £2 off the normal entry fee.)
Please note the House and Gardens are normally closed to the public on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
Address
Crook Hall & Gardens
Frankland Lane
Sidegate
Durham
DH1 5SZ
Contact details
0191 384 8028
info@crookhallgardens.co.uk
www.crookhallgardens.co.uk
4. Barnard Castle
Barnard Castle situated in the market town of Teesdale, County Durham. The castle was named after its 12th Century founder, Bernard de Balliol. Barnard Castle looks onto the River Tees below, which is popular with tourists and canoeists.
It is a great place for shoppers and antique shoppers, as the town has many old and antique shops which offers a charming experience. Many of the shops are independent, selling a range of distinctive products and also products that are made locally. Whether you are looking for home décor, designer clothes or second hand books, you’ll find something at Barnard Castle!
There is so much to see in Durham, so why not make a weekend of it?
www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/barnard-castle
5. Seaham Marina
Seaham Marina is in the heart of the north east coast of England, around 5 miles south of Sunderland and 11 miles north of Hartlepool. The marina is home to a large range of local business, from cafes to beauticians and fitness centres.
It makes a great day out with friends of family. Why not learn to paddle board, or simply relax and take a stroll along the harbour. There are many cafés where you can enjoy the scenery with a slice of cake!
From shops to restaurants – There’s something for everyone at the Marina. Seaham Harbour Marina is the perfect weekend day out.
Address
Marina Management
Unit 10
The Waterside
Seaham Harbour Marina
Seaham
Co Durham
SR7 7EE
Contact details
0191 5818998
www.seahammarina.com
Top 5 kid’s activities
There are many activities and attractions for families in Durham. Why not learn about the history of Durham on a Prince Bishop River Cruiser tour?
1. Prince Bishop River Cruiser
Prince Bishop River Cruiser is a fun and relaxing one hour river cruise, where you can experience the sights of Durham and capture unique sights along the River Wear. It’s great for families, so why not take the kids out for dinner one evening where they can learn all about Durham!
You will experience spectacular views of the city’s bridges, as well as seeing the Cathedral and Durham University. All the cruses have guided tours and talks, so everyone will be able to learn all about Durham and its history.
The cruise leaves from Browns Boathouse, Elvet Bridge, which is situated behind the Prince Bishop Shopping Centre. Why not go on a shopping trip after exploring Durham on the cruise?
Opening hours
There are limited sailing days announced on their site on approach so be sure to check and book ahead. Next announced one is in April.
Pricing
Adults: £8
Seniors: £7
Kids: £5
Address
The Boathouse
Elvet Bridge
Durham
County Durham
DH1 3AF
England
Contact details
01913 869525
www.princebishoprc.co.uk
2. Adventure Valley
Adventure Valley offers so much fun for the children, where they can see all of their favourite farm animals and run around the park. There is so much for children to do, including the Action Creek with slides, sandpits, go-karts and more! There is so much fun to be had at Adventure Valley.
For younger children, there are sandpits and play areas designed for under 5’s so they can join in the fun too! At Adventure Valley, there are daily shows which take place at The Showtime Theatre and if you’re feeling brave, why not visit the creepy crawlies in Creature Corner? There’s so much to do at Adventure Valley!
It’s a fun day out for all of the family, so why not take the kids one weekend or with their friends during the school break? It’s a great and fun place to visit where the children can learn all about the animals.
Opening hours
Monday to Friday 10:00 - 16:00
Saturday and Sunday 10:00 - 17:00
Pricing
Adult/Child: £9.75
Under 2: Free
Senior/Disabled: £8.75
Address
Brasside
Durham
County Durham
DH1 5SG
England
Contact details
0191 386 8291
www.adventurevalley.co.uk
3. Top Gear Karting
Top Gear Karting is great for children, especially if they love music and discos! – Who wouldn’t want to go-kart at a disco? Top Gear Karting is in Durham and offers a fun and active atmosphere for kids. There are also lessons where the children can learn and improve their racing skills and techniques.
Top Gear Karting is available for go-karting parties and birthday parties, for children and adults alike! No matter what your needs are, Top Gear Karting will be able to organise events to suit your requirements.
All drivers willing to take part need to be over the age of 8 and over a minimum height of 1.4m (4”7’).
Opening hours
Monday to Friday 12:00 - 20:00
Saturday 09:00 - 21:00
Sunday 10:00 - 18:00
Pricing
The prices for this attraction can vary. Please contact the attraction directly for more information.
Address
Unit 13 Rennys Lane Ind. Est.
Gilesgate Moor
Durham
County Durham
DH1 2RS
England
Contact details
0191 3860999
www.durhamkarting.co.uk
4. Mini Moos Farm
Mini Moos Farm is a small farm with a big heart for all of its animals. They specialise in rare breeds and rescue small animals and nurture animals back to the health they should be, before rehoming.
There are so many animals to see, where you can meet and learn all about them at petting sessions and daily animal shows – Children will love it!
There are lots of facilities here, such as a huge indoor and outdoor play area, so the children are free to run around as much as they like! They can even play and bounce on inflatables, swing, slide and climb. There are so many things to do, to keep the kids entertained – They won’t want to go home!
Children will love Mini Moos Farm, no matter what age.
Opening hours
School Holidays, Saturday and Sunday 10:00 - 16:00
Pricing
Adult/Child: £7.00
Under 2: Free
Address
West Edmondsley Farm
Durham
County Durham
DH7 6EY
England
Contact details
07718 213177
www.minimoosfarm.co.uk
5. Beamish Wild Adventure Park
Beamish Wild Adventure Park is a fun and adventurous day out for all the family! Children can build their own dens, climb trees and even try archery – The Beamish Wild Adventure Park has so much to offer, with over 20 activities to choose from.
It is also suitable to older children over 10, with High Rope Courses and 2 hour tree journeys amongst the tree tops. Why not experience the zip wires and rope bridges? There is so much to choose from!
After a fun filled day out, you can sit back and relax in the Stables Pub and Restaurant, which offers a great courtyard if the weathers sunny!
The Beamish Wild Adventure Park would make a fabulous day out, so why not take the kids during the school holidays with their friends?
Opening hours
Opening hours are subject to change. Please call the attraction directly to avoid disappointment.
Pricing
Adults (16+): £27.00
Kids (10 - 15): £22.00
Students: £22.00
Address
Beamish Hall
Stanley
County Durham
DH9 0YB
England
Contact details
01207 233 733
www.beamishwild.co.uk
Top 5 restaurants in Durham
On your visit to Durham, why not visit Tealicious Tearoom for lunch or treat yourself to a fine dining experience at Restaurant DH1?
1. Tealicious Tearoom
www.tealicioustearoom.co.uk
0191 340 1393
88 Elvet Bridge
Durham
DH1 3AG
England
2. The Cellar Door
www.thecellardoordurham.co.uk
0191 383 1856
41 Saddler Street
Durham
DH1 3NU
England
3. Vennel's Cafe
www.vennels.com
01913750623
71 Saddler Street
Durham
DH1 3NP
England
4. Finbarr's Restaurant
www.finbarrsrestaurant.co.uk
0191 307 7033
Aykley Heads
Durham
DH1 5TS
England
5. Restaurant DH1
www.restaurantdh1.co.uk
0191 384 6655
The Avenue
Durham
DH1 4DX
England