Things to Do in Bishop Auckland

⭐ 4.8

Sightseeing & Attractions

Kynren

Watch 2,000 years of history unfold through thrilling live action at this spectacular outdoor show, complete with pyrotechnics, horses and jaw-dropping stunts that will captivate the whole family.

⭐ 4.5

Adventure & Activity Centres

Binchester Roman Fort

Explore remarkably preserved Roman remains at this ancient cavalry fort, where families can discover original bathhouse structures and archaeological treasures in fully accessible surroundings.

⭐ 4.7 3.3 mi away

Museums & Galleries

Locomotion

Explore centuries of railway heritage at this Shildon museum, featuring historic locomotives and hands-on exhibits. Kids can enjoy the outdoor play area while families discover the fascinating story of Britain's railway pioneers.

⭐ 4.6 3.4 mi away

Horse Riding

Field House Equestrian Centre

Experience the joy of horse riding at this Howden Le Wear equestrian centre, offering families a chance to connect with these magnificent animals in a traditional stable setting.

⭐ 4.3 4 mi away

Swimming & Leisure Centres

Spennymoor Leisure Centre

Make a splash at this family-friendly leisure centre featuring a thrilling waterslide and wave machine. Wheelchair accessible with baby changing rooms, plus an onsite restaurant or bring your own picnic.

⭐ 4.3 5.2 mi away

Swimming & Leisure Centres

Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre

This accessible leisure facility in Beveridge Arcade welcomes families with baby changing rooms and wheelchair-friendly amenities for an active day out in County Durham.

🎟️Trails & Treasure Hunts

The Durham Treasure Trail ⭐ 4.9 6.1 mi away

Trails & Treasure Hunts

The Durham Treasure Trail

Follow cryptic clues around Durham's historic centre on this interactive family quest that reveals hidden gems and fascinating local secrets as you explore together.

⭐ 4.3 6.2 mi away

Adventure & Activity Centres

Planet Leisure

Multiple family activities under one roof at this Newton Aycliffe entertainment venue on Maple Way, featuring tenpin bowling lanes, an indoor ice rink, play zones and dining facilities.

⭐ 4.3 6.5 mi away

Indoor Soft Play

Ruff N Tumble Adventure World

Exciting multi-storey soft play centre where under-12s can climb, slide and explore thrilling obstacles including drop slides and foam cannons, plus an onsite restaurant for refreshments.

⭐ 4.6 6.6 mi away

Climbing & Bouldering

Durham Climbing Centre

Challenge your family to scale exciting indoor walls at this climbing centre on Meadowfield Industrial Estate, with convenient onsite parking though limited facilities available.

⭐ 4.2 6.9 mi away

Castles & Palaces

The Plotters’ Forest at Raby Castle

Step into centuries of history at this magnificent medieval fortress in Staindrop, where atmospheric castle rooms reveal tales from different eras and forest trails invite family exploration.

⭐ 4.7

Parks & Play Areas

Hamsterley Forest

This expansive woodland playground invites families to bike scenic trails, enjoy picnics, and explore nature together in a fully accessible, dog-friendly setting with dining options available.

⭐ 4.7 7.9 mi away

Museums & Galleries

Oriental Museum

Discover fascinating artefacts from across Asia at Durham's specialist collection, featuring accessible facilities and onsite parking—perfect for families exploring Eastern cultures together.

⭐ 4.6 8 mi away

Parks & Play Areas

Durham Botanic Garden

Explore exotic flora from rainforests to deserts plus fascinating creepy-crawlies including tarantulas at this international plant collection. Family facilities include restaurant, picnic areas and parking.

⭐ 4.7 8.5 mi away

Parks & Play Areas

Hardwick Park

Enjoy classic outdoor games in beautiful meadowland while the kids run free at this accessible park offering refreshments, picnic spots, and a warm welcome to dogs and pushchairs alike.

⭐ 4.4 8.9 mi away

Boat Tours & Cruises

Prince Bishop River Cruiser

Embark on a scenic river journey from Durham's historic Elvet Bridge, with onboard dining available as you cruise along the waterway and admire the city's stunning riverside views.

⭐ 4.5 8.9 mi away

Sailing & Kayaking

Wear Canoes

Paddle along the river with your family at this beginner-friendly canoeing spot just outside Durham, welcoming children aged six and up for fun on the water whatever their skill level.

⭐ 4.6 9.2 mi away

Historic Houses & Gardens

Crook Hall & Gardens

Step into this enchanting Durham retreat where little ones can explore a meadow maze while families wander through four distinct gardens, including a hidden walled sanctuary surrounded by centuries of history.

⭐ 4.7 9.5 mi away

Theme Parks & Funfairs

Diggerland Durham

Let young builders live their dreams operating real diggers, dumpers and construction vehicles at this hands-on adventure park where kids command heavy machinery in a safe, thrilling environment.

⭐ 4.6 10 mi away

Go Karting & Driving Experiences

TopGear Karting

Race through an electrifying indoor karting circuit featuring dramatic lighting effects and a pumping disco soundtrack, perfect for young drivers aged 9 and up seeking thrills in Durham.