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.
Be at one with birds of prey at Rosliston Forestry Centre
There’s something special about being close to a bird of prey; those round watchful eyes on high alert, fixing you with a dominating stare.
Location: Rosliston, Derbyshire
Enjoy a wild night out with bushcraft at Catton Hall
Let Woodland Ways teach you the basics of bushcraft in a fun and safe environment whilst spending time outdoors and sleeping under the stars.
Location: Catton, Derbyshire
Rediscover the house that time forgot at Calke Abbey
By their very nature gardens are emotional places and none more so than the surroundings of this once magnificent country estate.
Location: Ticknall, Derbyshire
See The National Forest in bloom at Yoxall Lodge
Too many hours indoors during winter’s gloomy days and you’re looking to break out into spring’s fresh air and lengthening daylight hours.
Location: Yoxall, Staffordshire
Walk the breadth of spectacular Stanage Edge
Follow in the footsteps of your literary heroes on Stanage Edge, a dramatic rocky outcrop with equally dramatic moorland views in the Peak District.
Location: Stanage Edge, Derbyshire
Discover UNESCO World Heritage site at Masson Mills
Experience what life was like to work in an 18th-century mill at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Location: Matlock Bath, Derbyshire
Herefordshire Cider Circuits
Cycling and cider makes for a great combination in Herefordshire.
Location: Ledbury, Herefordshire
Murder Mystery Weekend
Elaborate plots, professional actors and the chance to play detective.
Location: Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire
Small pleasures come free at Dimminsdale Nature Reserve
Just a few small snowdrops bring cheer to the colder, shorter days of England’s winter, and seen at Dimminsdale, they’re simply breathtaking.
Location: Staunton Harold, Leicestershire
Enjoy creature comforts at the Dandelion Hideaway
Down on the farm there are tents that think they’re cottages, roll-top baths, proper beds, fresh food, plenty of fresh air, and plenty to see and do.
Location: Osbaston, Leicestershire
Choose between red, white or rosé at Sealwood Cottage
Sample the fruits of this Derbyshire vineyard in the charming countryside of The National Forest, and then go to sleep in a pyramid-roofed bedroom.
Location: Swadlincote, Derbyshire
Thrills and chills at Alton Towers
Share thrills and relaxation with your loved one on the Thrills & Chills experience at the entertaining Alton Towers resort.
Location: Alton, Staffordshire
Experience the adventure and thrills of the Monsal Trail
Whizz through four former railway tunnels on your bicycle and enjoy breathtaking views on the Monsal Trail.
Location: Hassop, Derbyshire
Underground & over ground adventures at Go Ape
Release your Tarzan and journey to the centre of the earth on an epic double adventure in Derbyshire’s beautiful Buxton.
Location: Buxton, Derbyshire
Visit Derby's three National Trust treasures
Derby has a trio of National Trust treasures all within a 10 mile radius, so use the city as your base to explore Calke, Sudbury and Kedleston.
Location: Derby, Derbyshire
Be an apprentice brewer for the day at Derventio Brewery
Roll up your sleeves as you become an apprentice brewer for the day in one of Derby’s many micro-breweries.
Location: Derby, Derbyshire
Explore the city delights of Derby’s Cathedral Quarter
Meander through Derby’s Cathedral Quarter, with arcades and hidden entrances, luxury hotel, specialist stores and independent retailers.
Location: Derby, Derbyshire
Tour the tower of Lincoln Cathedral
For 300 years Lincoln Cathedral was the tallest building in the world. Take a tour of the iconic building for an unforgettable experience.
Location: Lincoln, Lincolnshire
Spend a weekend on the Waterfront in Lincoln
Lincoln’s unique city-centre waterfront is the ideal base for a vibrant, exciting weekend city break.
Location: Lincoln, Lincolnshire
Enjoy a romantic escape to a secret corner of Lincoln
Escape with your special someone to a medieval palace hidden beside Lincoln Cathedral and Lincoln’s Medieval Bishop’s Palace.
Location: Lincoln, Lincolnshire
October events: Experience Leicester's Festival of Light
Wrap up warm for Leicester’s spectacular Diwali lights switch on, or join in with a wealth of activities and celebrations leading up to the epic finale on Diwali Day.
Location: Leicester, Leicestershire