The grand Norman-era Durham Cathedral (which plays a role in Harry Potter), and nearby fairy-tale, turreted castle have the words 'World Heritage Site' written all over them. The majestic north east city of Durham is a historical treasure trove; castles nestle in riversides, parks thrive with deer, and living museums radiate with industrial heritage, but that’s just a taste of the best places to visit in Durham. Bring your map to visit Durham County and the North Pennines where there are miles of heather-carpeted dales to explore. And sports fans aren't short of things to do in Durham – it’s 'cricket mad', especially when The Ashes come to town.
Places to visit in Durham
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Top things to do in County Durham
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Tucked away in North East England, the lovely County of Durham has plenty of surprises up its sleeve.
Retrace Turner's footsteps in Durham
Durham’s landscapes and iconic buildings have inspired several of England’s great artists and writers, including the master painter JMW Turner.
Location: Durham Dales, Durham
Barnard Castle in the Durham Dales
A walking architectural history lesson.
Location: Barnard Castle, Durham Dales
Take your senses on a trip back in time at Beamish
Touch, taste, hear, see and smell history on an unforgettable journey into the past at England’s largest open-air museum.
Location: Vale of Durham
July festivals: Durham Brass
Brass is given a modern twist with art installations in the streets and a dose of contemporary hip hop at BRASS Durham International Festival.
Location: Durham
December events: Enjoy a city Christmas festival with a difference
Experience the timeless beauty of Durham City as you explore the traditional Durham Christmas festival this winter.
Location: Durham City, Durham
Delve into Durham’s historic treasure troves
Step back in time and admire world-class art at captivating castles and manor houses across the county.
Location: Vale of Durham / Durham Dales
Discover a castle fit for a prince
Explore artistic treasures in Auckland Castle, home of the Prince Bishops of Durham for 900 years, and set to host a spectacular new show from 2016.
Location: Vale of Durham, Durham
Journey through British history at Kynren
Experience an epic storytelling journey through time at this spectacular live-action night show in Durham.
Location: Bishop Auckland, Durham