Let’s explore all of the amazing tourist hotspots that our wonderful city of Durham and the wider region has to offer…

Tourist hotspots in Durham are easy to come by, with lots of well-known places that simply roll off the tongue of most Northerners, including Durham Castle & Cathedral and Beamish Museum, but what else is there?

Durham Cathedral

Address: The College, Durham DH1 3EH

The Cathedral Church of Christ, Blessed Mary the Virgin and St Cuthbert of Durham (more commonly known as Durham Cathedral) is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cathedral was completed between 1093 and 1133, with visitors being able to enter through the incredible 12^th century northwest door, once used by fugitives seeking sanctuary. There are lots of incredible sights to discover including Galilee Chapel, Norman Nave and the Monks’ Dormitory, with an unrivalled collection of 8^th century manuscripts!

URL: http://www.durhamcathedral.co.uk/

Durham Castle

Address: Durham DH1 3RW

Built as a fortress by the Earl of Northumberland in 1072, Durham Castle, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, as some youthful fans with its history as a set for the world-famous Harry Potter film series. The most interesting sights to find in this incredible building are the 14^th century dining hall, 15^th century kitchen with fireplace and pantry, and the bishop’s apartments.

URL: https://www.durhamworldheritagesite.com/architecture/castle

Beamish Museum

Address: Beamish, County Durham DH9 0RG

Set in the midst of 300 acres of stunning North East countryside, this Durham museum is one-of-a-kind for a “hands-on” look at how life used to be throughout the Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian eras. Shop staff and bus conductors wear clothes of the time, ensuring everywhere you turn, historic Durham life is brought back in very real technicolour.

URL: http://www.beamish.org.uk/

Raby Castle

Address: Staindrop, Darlington, County Durham, DL2 3AH

Situated in the picturesque Durham Dales, in Teesdale, Raby Castle is one of England’s most impressive, and best-preserved medieval castles. It has been home to Lord Barnard’s family since 1626 including fine furniture, amazing artworks and stunning architecture. Don’t forget to pay a visit to the 200 acre deer park and the horse-drawn carriage collection.

URL: http://www.rabycastle.com/

National Railway Museum, Shildon

Address: 18 Soho St, Shildon DL4 2RE

Also known as Locomotion: the National Railway Museum at Shildon or Shildon Locomotion Museum. The museum is part of the science Museum Group and was based on the former Timothy Hackworth Victorian Railway Museum. Today’s exhibits include, Timothy Hackworth’s former home, coal drops, goods shed, various locomotives and the Soho workshop. There are lots of things to see and do for train-enthusiasts and families alike. The popular
Shildon Shed Bash takes place here in July 2016.

URL: http://www.nrm.org.uk/PlanaVisit/VisitShildon

High Force Waterfall, Middleton in Teesdale

Address: Forest-in-Teesdale DL12 0XH

A truly awe-inspiring force of nature, High Force has long been a tourist location for those in the North East on school trips or looking for the perfect place to walk, hike and have a picnic. Located in Forest-in-Teesdale, in the heart of the Durham Dales, High Force waterfall is the dramatic highlight of the River Tees, as it gathers pace and momentum throughout the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Various animal and plant life can also be found at High Force, including rabbits and deer and ferns and wildflowers. There are also car parks, picnic areas, public toilets and a gift shop.  The perfect summer day out!

URL: http://www.highforcewaterfall.com/

Diggerland

Address: Riverside Industrial Estate, Langley Park, Durham DH7 9TT

The ultimate experience for children – and big kids – who love the idea of being able to drive and operate REAL diggers, dumpers and other full-size construction machinery. If your child/grandchild is a Bob the Builder fan, this is for you! With 18 different rides and drives on offer, plus outdoor play areas, sandpits and coin operated rides, allow the kids to tire themselves out and you can chill out – or join in!

URL: http://www.diggerland.com/days-out-in-durham

Beamish Wild

Address: Beamish, Stanley DH9 0YB

The ultimate in friendly rivalry for teammates, friends or family, this treetop adventure course isn’t for the faint hearted but guarantees lots of laughter and fears conquered! Beamish Wild, situated near to Beamish Museum, Durham, is filled with activities, with the highlight being its two-hour treetop course, as well as archery and teambuilding sessions. If you’re looking for something sporty, this is for you!

URL: http://www.beamishwild.co.uk/

• If you would like transport to your next night out in the North East please don’t hesitate to get in touch with Stanley Travel on 01207 230 000.