Discover the Best attractions and Days Out in County Durham

Discover the best attractions in County Durham, from historic castles and museums to family theme parks, and stunning countryside days out.

Family Days Out and Things to Do in County Durham

Discover things to do when planning family days out in County Durham, a region rich in history, coastline, countryside and family-friendly attractions. From the historic city of Durham with its iconic cathedral to vibrant towns and seaside destinations, County Durham offers a wide variety of days out for all ages.

County Durham is home to several key urban centres, including Durham, Darlington, Hartlepool, Bishop Auckland, Chester-le-Street, Consett, and Peterlee, each offering its own mix of attractions, parks, museums and entertainment.

County Durham comprises the following towns and cities:
📌 Bishop Auckland
📌 Chester-le-Street
📌 Consett
📌 Darlington
📌 Durham
📌 Hartlepool
📌 Peterlee

View a wide range of attractions and days out for families in County Durham, from historic castles and museums to outdoor adventures, coastal walks and seasonal events.

Adventure Valley

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Open all year round, with over 50 activities, attractions and shows, themed events every school holiday, 18,000 sq feet of indoor play, lots of cute and cuddly friends at the Farmyard and acres of outdoor play areas including forts, pirate ships, Go-Karts, slides, plus rides and swings, you can see why they call it the North East’s biggest family adventure Read more…

Beamish – The Living Museum of the North

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Beamish Museum, the multi-award-winning Living Museum of the North tells the story of the people of North East England in Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian times. Visit Beamish Open Air Museum The open-air museum offers something for all the family. Set on a 350-acre estate near the town of Stanley, County Durham, England. The museum’s guiding principle is to preserve Read more…

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Diggerland Durham

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Diggerland Durham is the perfect destination for a fun, thrilling, action-packed family day out. Diggerland Durham is just one of four incredible construction-themed parks in the UK. View our master guide to Diggerland to compare all parks, attractions, and nearby accommodation Fun for all the Family At Diggerland Durham, there are over 20 different rides and drives and tons of Read more…

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Kynren – An Epic Tale of England

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Kynren – An Epic Tale of England is the UK’s ‘must see’ spectacular live-action show. First launched in 2016, the epic performance takes the audience on an immersive journey through 2,000 years of history, myth and legend. Discover the History of England The 1,000-strong cast and crew of volunteers engage in a complex and robust set of training programmes Read more…

Locomotion

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Located in Shildon, County Durham, the birthplace of the railways, Locomotion is a museum that celebrates the rich history of railways and showcases an impressive collection of locomotives and railway artefacts. Whether you’re a train enthusiast or simply curious about the fascinating world of railways, Locomotion is the perfect destination for an unforgettable day out. Unveiling the Wonders of Read more…

SimFly

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Are you ready to embark on an exhilarating adventure in the skies? Look no further than SimFly, the ultimate flight simulation experience that will take you to new heights! Soar to New Heights with SimFly! With SimFly, you can unleash your inner pilot and soar through the clouds like a true aviator. Whether you’re a seasoned flyer or a Read more…

Things to do in County Durham

County Durham is a captivating county in Northeast England, defined by its blend of UNESCO-recognised heritage, wild moorlands, and a powerful industrial legacy. A must-visit is Beamish Museum, the world-famous open-air museum that brings the region’s history to life through costumed characters, vintage trams, and reconstructed Victorian and Edwardian streets. For families seeking a unique adventure, Diggerland Durham offers an action-packed day where children and adults can drive and operate real, full-sized construction machinery. In the heart of the historic city, the magnificent Durham Cathedral and Castle dominate the skyline, surrounded by winding medieval streets, independent boutiques, and riverside walks. Beyond the city, you can explore the dramatic High Force Waterfall and the rolling hills of the Durham Dales, making the county perfect for both cultural city breaks and rural escapes.

County Durham Hotels and Accommodation

County Durham offers a wonderful selection of accommodation for families, history lovers, and those seeking a quiet retreat in the countryside. The Inn Collection provides excellent options within the county, including The Kingslodge Inn, which serves as a cosy, central base within walking distance of Durham city’s main landmarks. For those who prefer a self-catering experience, Sykes Holiday Cottages and Rural Retreats offer a wide range of characterful properties, from farmhouses in the Dales to coastal cottages. Alternatively, Travelodge offers convenient and affordable stays across the region, while a broad selection of further hotels and guesthouses can be found using Booking.com, making it easy to compare locations and prices for any travel style