County Durham Events
What's On In County Durham
Today to Sun 11 Oct
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Escomb Saxon Church
Today
Escomb Saxon Church, Saxon Green, Escomb, Bishop Auckland DL14 7SY
Heritage Open Day: The church was built in the 7th century. Have a free guided tour of this ancient, Anglo-Saxon Church, where you can learn about...
Life in the world's first railway town
Today
Locomotion, The N R M At Shildon, Dale Road Trading Estate, Dale Road, Shildon DL4 2RE
Heritage Open Day: The town of Shildon has had an exciting story to tell since the earliest days of the rail industry...
The Fitzhugh Library
Today to Tue 15 Sep
The Fitzhugh Library, 1st floor 51 Market Place, Middleton-in-Teesdale, Barnard Castle DL12 0QH
Heritage Open Day: Visit the hidden gem of the Fitzhugh Library and its collection of photographs, books and documents re the County Palatine of...
St Mary's Parish Church
Today
Newgate, Barnard Castle DL12 8NQ
Heritage Open Day: The church tower will be open with access to the ringing chamber and the clock chamber...
St Ives' Church Leadgate
Today
St Ives Church, St Ives Road, Leadgate DH8 7SN
Heritage Open Day: Discover St Ives' Church Leadgate, one of the North East's little-known architectural gems with a fascinating heritage...
St. John the Baptist Church Greatham
Today, Fri 18 Sep
St. John the Baptist Church, Greatham, Hartlepool TS25 2QT
Heritage Open Day: Discover St. John the Baptist Church, Greatham and discover the history of the church through a display as well as Wedding...
The Bowes Museum
Today
The Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle DL12 8NP
Heritage Open Day: Enjoy a fantastic free day out with family and friends at The Bowes Museum and celebrate England’s largest festival of history...
An invitation to visit the ancient church of All Saints, Stranton. Guided tours throughout the day.
Today, Sat 19 Sep, Sun 20 Sep
Church Row, Hartlepool TS247QT
Heritage Open Day: This year we are celebrating our 900 year anniversary. We will have a Memories of Stranton display in church...
St Andrew's Church, Haughton le Skerne, Darlington
Today
Haughton Green, Haughton le Skerne, Darlington DL1 2DD
Heritage Open Day: The oldest church in Darlington, c1125, including interesting stonework and woodwork...
Aycliffe Bus Museum
Today
Aycliffe Bus Museum, Langton Business Centre, Aycliffe Business Park, Newton Aycliffe DL5 6BL
Heritage Open Day: Step aboard at Aycliffe Bus Museum for a journey through North East transport history...
St Cuthbert's Church, Billingham, Church History Tour
Mon 14 Sep to Thu 17 Sep, Sat 19 Sep
St Cuthbert's Church, Billingham Green, Billingham, Teesside TS23 1BW
Heritage Open Day: Come and explore this historic church and hear some fascinating facts in an iconic setting led by a knowledgeable members of the...
Your Families and How They Came to Billingham
Mon 14 Sep to Wed 16 Sep, Fri 18 Sep, Sat 19 Sep
St Cuthbert's Church, Billingham TS23 1BW
Heritage Open Day: Photos and stories of the first generations to come to Billingham – as a tribute to the Town’s pioneers...
Join our choir in Durham for a FREE taster session
Mon 14 Sep, Mon 21 Sep, and more dates until Mon 23 Nov
Elvet Methodist Church, 8 Old Elvet, Durham, Co. Durham DH1 3HL
Do you want to find a choir near you?
Your friendly local Durham choir is run by singer/pianist Rob Slater...
Stanhope and Tyne Railway Walk
Wed 16 Sep
Waskerley station picnic area, Waskerley Village, off Castleside to Stanhope road, Consett DH8 9DZ
Heritage Open Day: A walk in the countryside along former railway lines. Let our guides take you on a walk through history using the former railway...
Crook Hall Gardens - National Trust
Wed 16 Sep, Sat 19 Sep
Crook Hall Gardens, Frankland Lane, Durham DH1 5SZ
Heritage Open Day: Free entry to enjoy the beautiful gardens and Medieval Hall Wander through the series of interlinking gardens, each with its own...
Wheatley Hill Heritage Centre
Thu 17 Sep to Sat 19 Sep
Cemetery Lodge, 25 Woodlands Avenue, Wheatley Hill DH6 3JY
Heritage Open Day: Wheatley Hill Heritage Centre will be open for the last weekend of Heritage Open Days - Thursday 17 - Saturday 19 September 2026...
Washington Old Hall - National Trust
Fri 18 Sep, Sun 20 Sep
Washington Old Hall, The Avenue, Washington Village, Sunderland NE38 7LE
Heritage Open Day: Enjoy free entry to the manor house, gardens and nuttery. At the heart of historic Washington village this picturesque stone manor...
Two Railways and Two Denes
Fri 18 Sep
Castle Eden Dene Local Nature Reserve, Oakerside Dene Lodge, Stanhope Drive, Castle Eden Dene SR8 1NJ
Heritage Open Day: A walk in the countryside along former railway lines. Two Railways and Two Denes
10:00am (4.5 hours) 8 miles, level 2...
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat. Josh Jones & Jenny Hart
Fri 18 Sep
Bishop Auckland Town Hall, Market Place, Bishop Auckland DL14 7NP
Coming to Hilarity Bites at Bishop Auckland Town Hall on September 18th 2026:
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club feat...
St Cuthbert's Catholic Church, Durham
Fri 18 Sep to Sun 20 Sep
St. Cuthberts Catholic Church, Old Elvet, Durham DH1 3HL
Heritage Open Day: Visit this simple, peaceful church to rest a while or to see the stunning window by the world-famous Irish stained glass artist...
Church of Our Lady of Mercy and St. Godric
Fri 18 Sep, Sat 19 Sep
Church of Our Lady of Mercy and St. Godric, 2, Castle Chare, Durham DH1 4RD
Heritage Open Day: Between the train and the bus stations, a landmark in the Durham City Conservation Area, St...
St Laurence's Church, Pittington
Sat 19 Sep
Hallgarth Lane, High Pittington DH6 1AB
Heritage Open Day: Visit St Laurence Church. Refreshments available. Discover a Grade I listed, 12th & 13th century church...
St Mary the Virgin, Easington
Sat 19 Sep
St Mary the Virgin, Hall Walks, Easington Village SR8 3BP
Heritage Open Day: A 12th century Parish Church, with evidence of Saxon origins. The building contains Medieval pieces including a beautiful example...
St Margaret of Antioch Church
Sat 19 Sep
Crossgate, Durham DH1 4PR
Heritage Open Day: St Margaret of Antioch church building dates from the mid-twelfth century, and much of the stonework (as well as the font) is...
Thorpe Light Railway - behind the scenes
Sat 19 Sep
Thorpe Light Railway, Barnard Castle DL12 9TW
Heritage Open Day: An opportunity for visitors to learn about the history of Thorpe Light Railway, and hear about ongoing projects and future plans...
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Things to do around County Durham
If you're planning a day out in County Durham, this northernmost county in England offers a rich blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural attractions. Here are some delightful activities to consider:
1. Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle:
- Durham Cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, is a masterpiece of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Marvel at its stunning design and explore the tombs of St. Cuthbert and the Venerable Bede. Don't miss the Chapel of the Nine Altars. While in Durham, visit Durham Castle, occupied by University College since 1840. Take a guided tour to explore its medieval great hall, Norman Chapel, and Tunstall Chapel with intricate carvings.
2. Barnard Castle:
- Despite its recent notoriety, Barnard Castle remains a top attraction in County Durham. Visit the Bowes Museum, home to the largest art collection in northern England. Explore the 12th-century Norman castle perched high on a rock overlooking the River Tees. Look for King Richard III's boar emblem carved into the castle wall.
3. North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and High Force Waterfall:
- Discover the rugged beauty of the North Pennines AONB. Enjoy scenic walks, rolling hills, and breathtaking landscapes. Don't miss the High Force Waterfall, one of England's most impressive waterfalls.
4. Beamish Museum:
- Step back in time at the Beamish Museum, an open-air living museum near Stanley. Explore historic buildings, ride vintage trams, and immerse yourself in the past. It's a fascinating glimpse into the region's industrial heritage.
5. Raby Castle:
- Visit Raby Castle, a medieval fortress surrounded by beautiful gardens and deer parks. Explore its grand rooms, learn about its history, and enjoy the picturesque setting. Don't miss the views from the castle's towers.
Remember, County Durham offers a mix of cultural landmarks, natural wonders, and historic sites – perfect for an enriching and memorable day out!
:
1. Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle:
- Durham Cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, is a masterpiece of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Marvel at its stunning design and explore the tombs of St. Cuthbert and the Venerable Bede. Don't miss the Chapel of the Nine Altars. While in Durham, visit Durham Castle, occupied by University College since 1840. Take a guided tour to explore its medieval great hall, Norman Chapel, and Tunstall Chapel with intricate carvings.
2. Barnard Castle:
- Despite its recent notoriety, Barnard Castle remains a top attraction in County Durham. Visit the Bowes Museum, home to the largest art collection in northern England. Explore the 12th-century Norman castle perched high on a rock overlooking the River Tees. Look for King Richard III's boar emblem carved into the castle wall.
3. North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and High Force Waterfall:
- Discover the rugged beauty of the North Pennines AONB. Enjoy scenic walks, rolling hills, and breathtaking landscapes. Don't miss the High Force Waterfall, one of England's most impressive waterfalls.
4. Beamish Museum:
- Step back in time at the Beamish Museum, an open-air living museum near Stanley. Explore historic buildings, ride vintage trams, and immerse yourself in the past. It's a fascinating glimpse into the region's industrial heritage.
5. Raby Castle:
- Visit Raby Castle, a medieval fortress surrounded by beautiful gardens and deer parks. Explore its grand rooms, learn about its history, and enjoy the picturesque setting. Don't miss the views from the castle's towers.
Remember, County Durham offers a mix of cultural landmarks, natural wonders, and historic sites – perfect for an enriching and memorable day out!