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.
Get back to nature at High Force waterfall
Explore a peaceful landscape of moors and hills, valleys, waterfalls and rivers dotted with picturesque villages and historic market towns.
Location: Durham Dales
Discover the walled gardens at medieval Raby Castle
Visit one of England’s finest medieval castles, and explore the medieval walled gardens and 200 acre deer park.
Location: Durham Dales, Durham
Sit in Harry Potter's classroom at Durham Cathedral
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry came to life via a number of locations across the UK, one of which was the awe-inspiring Durham Cathedral.
Location: Durham City, 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
Discover 2,000 years of history at Durham Cathedral
Open Treasure is Durham Cathedral’s new world-class visitor experience, located in the most intact surviving set of medieval monastic buildings in the UK.
Location: Durham City, Durham
Discover your wild side at 'Beamish Wild' in Durham
Swing from the treetops in ancient woodland, but keep your eyes on the prize as a refreshing real ale awaits in the micro-brewery & restaurant below.
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
Set off in search of sea glass on the Durham Coast
Search for sea glass, walk the coastal footpath, visit the county’s only marina and enjoy dramatic views in a five-star luxury spa hotel.
Location: Seaham, Durham Coast
Follow in Ben Fogle’s footsteps on an activity break
Discover Durham's great outdoors this summer and follow in the footsteps of TV's Ben Fogle.
Location: Durham