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
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.
Enjoy dinner and a show at Kilworth House Hotel & Theatre
Not many luxurious English hotels come complete with their own open-air theatre, but Kilworth House has always been a little bit special.
Location: Kilworth, Leicestershire
Enjoy a family getaway at Upper Rectory Farm Cottages
The idyllic Upper Rectory Farm Cottages in Leicestershire offers a perfect retreat if you’re looking for a luxurious festive getaway.
Location: Swadlincote, Leicestershire
Fill your belly on a gourmet getaway in Leicestershire
Try the famous Melton Mowbray Pork Pie, local Stilton cheese, cream tea, ales, wines and sloe gin as part of a delicious countryside break.
Location: Melton Mowbray and the Vale of Belvoir, Leicestershire
Enjoy a fun family break in Leicestershire
Treat your children to a fun-filled short break in Leicestershire.
Location: Leicester, Leicestershire
October events: Sample local delights at the East Midlands Food Festival
The East Midlands Food Festival in Melton Mowbray is one of the largest regional food festivals in the country. Running for over 15 years, lots of loyal and new visitors can enjoy edible delights from some of the country’s finest producers, many from the East Midlands.
Location: Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire
Treat your loved one to a romantic getaway in Leicester
Explore the sights of Leicester with your loved-one on a city break this winter.
Location: Leicester, Leicestershire
Rock out at Download Festival
Horn signs at the ready; get set for a weekend of rock as the biggest names in metal take to the stage at Download Festival.
Location: Leicestershire
See Britain's finest comedians at Leicester Comedy Festival
Get a glimpse at the future of British comedy at the annual Leicester Comedy Festival.
Location: Leicester