Things to Do in Durham
18 attractions and days out
Photo © Google Maps contributors, Google Maps
Durham city's obvious draw is its castle and cathedral, sitting together on the peninsula above the River Wear, and most visitors build a day around them before branching out to the Oriental Museum or the gardens at Crook Hall. These are places best tackled on foot, with the riverbanks and cobbled streets adding to the walk between them.
Beyond the historic core, the county offers a different kind of outing. Diggerland and TopGear Karting suit families wanting something more active, while Durham Climbing Centre gives an indoor option for wet days. East Grange Farm and Durham Botanic Garden slow things down again, good for younger children or a gentler afternoon.
Given how compact Durham city is, it's easy to combine an indoor attraction with time outdoors, and the spread here covers most tastes and weather conditions without much travel between them.
⭐ 5.0
Indoor Soft Play
Dragonflies Durham
Creative workshops combining hands-on crafts and sensory activities designed to spark imagination and learning in young children, with an on-site café for refreshments.
⭐ 4.9
Indoor Soft Play
Dream Big Role Play Centre
Let imaginations run wild at this Durham role play venue where children can explore creative scenarios in a safe indoor environment, complete with café facilities and accessible amenities for all families.
⭐ 4.7
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.
⭐ 4.7
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
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.
⭐ 4.5
Indoor Soft Play
Holmside Park
Durham's action-packed activity venue features bouncy obstacle courses, archery and skating alongside accessible facilities, dining options and a welcoming policy for families with young children.
Trails & Treasure Hunts
Lanchester Village Mystery Treasure Trail
Solve an engaging whodunnit mystery while discovering Lanchester's historic Front Street on this self-guided trail adventure that's perfect for families who love sleuthing together.
⭐ 4.6
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.
⭐ 4.6
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.
⭐ 4.6
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.
⭐ 4.5
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.
⭐ 4.4
Parks & Play Areas
Adventure Valley
This Durham farm-based attraction combines outdoor adventure zones with indoor play spaces and friendly farmyard animals, keeping energetic youngsters entertained for hours. Fully accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs throughout.
⭐ 4.4
Castles & Palaces
Durham Castle
Step into a millennium of medieval heritage at this working university college where children under 16 explore free. Family-friendly facilities include picnic areas and full accessibility.
⭐ 4.4
Landmarks & Monuments
Durham Cathedral
This magnificent Norman cathedral welcomes families with accessible facilities including baby changing areas and wheelchair-friendly access, plus you can enjoy your own picnic on the historic grounds.
⭐ 4.4
Farm Parks
East Grange Farm
A welcoming children's farm offering hands-on animal encounters with full accessibility for wheelchairs and pushchairs, plus baby facilities, on-site refreshments and picnic-friendly grounds.
⭐ 4.4
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.
⭐ 4.2
Trampoline & Bounce Parks
Infinite Air Trampoline Park
Let active kids burn off energy across a vast indoor bouncing arena at Durham's New Ferens Park, where snacks keep everyone fueled for action-packed trampoline fun.
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.
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