Attractions and Places To See in County Durham - Top 20

County Durham is home to several spectacular waterfalls. The most popular is High Force Waterfall, where the River Tees dramatically plunges 21 meters. Further downstream, you can find the equally impressive Low Force Waterfall. For a more challenging hike, explore Cauldron Snout Waterfall, known for its dramatic cascades.

The region boasts a rich history with several notable castles. Durham Castle, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside Durham Cathedral, offers guided tours. Other impressive sites include the 14th-century Raby Castle with its gardens and deer park, and the ruins of Barnard Castle, maintained by English Heritage. Auckland Castle, once a residence of the Prince Bishops, is also a significant historical site.

Yes, County Durham offers many attractions suitable for families. High Force Waterfall has well-maintained paths perfect for a family outing. Beamish, The Living Museum of the North, provides an immersive experience into the region's past. Causey Arch, the world's oldest surviving single-span railway bridge, is set in a tranquil valley ideal for exploration. Locomotion in Shildon, a National Railway Museum, is also a great option for transport enthusiasts of all ages.

Beyond its castles, County Durham features several unique historical sites. Causey Arch is a fascinating historical site, being the oldest surviving single-span railway bridge in the world. Beamish, The Living Museum of the North, offers a unique journey through Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian periods. You can also visit Binchester Roman Fort, which contains one of Britain's best-preserved underfloor heating systems, or the picturesque ruins of Finchale Priory.

County Durham is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. The North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) offers dramatic landscapes for hiking, including trails around High Force Waterfall and Low Force. Hamsterley Forest, the county's largest forest, provides a beautiful environment for recreation and wildlife spotting. For more detailed routes, you can explore options like the 'High Force and Low Force Circular' or 'Three Becks Walk loop in Hamsterley Forest' on the Hiking in County Durham guide.

Many attractions in County Durham offer stunning views. High Force Waterfall provides a spectacular vista of the plunging River Tees. The area around Causey Arch offers lovely views within a tranquil valley. The Durham Heritage Coast features spectacular cliff scenery, and the Durham Riverside Walk provides picturesque views of Durham Cathedral and the River Wear.

Absolutely. The Bowes Museum in Barnard Castle, housed in a stunning Victorian mansion, boasts one of Europe's finest collections of fine art. The Oriental Museum at Durham University is Britain's only museum dedicated to the art and archaeology of Northern Africa and Asia. For transport history, Locomotion in Shildon showcases a significant collection of railway vehicles.

The North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), a UNESCO Global Geopark, is renowned for its world-class geology and diverse landscapes of dales, moors, and waterfalls. The Durham Heritage Coast offers spectacular cliff scenery, nature reserves, and beaches. Hamsterley Forest provides extensive woodlands for exploration, and Castle Eden Dene National Nature Reserve is a steep, well-wooded valley with ancient trees.

County Durham offers several scenic cycling routes. The Waskerley Way is a 9.7-mile (15.6 km) traffic-free cycle path running through countryside, passing impressive railway structures. You can find various road cycling routes, such as the 'Hartside Fell & Moor House Nature Reserve loop' or the 'Teesdale & Weardale loop', detailed in the Road Cycling Routes in County Durham guide.

Visitors frequently praise the dramatic natural beauty, especially the powerful waterfalls like High Force, and the well-maintained paths that make them accessible. The historical significance of sites like Durham Cathedral and Causey Arch is also highly appreciated, with many enjoying the blend of history and tranquil natural surroundings.

Yes, County Durham features some remarkable man-made structures. Causey Arch is a must-see, being the oldest surviving single-span railway bridge in the world. Another interesting structure is Wynch Bridge, a chain suspension bridge across the River Tees, offering exhilarating views over the deep ravine. The impressive Hownsgill Viaduct is also a notable landmark.

Many attractions are located near towns or villages with amenities. For example, the historic market town of Barnard Castle grew around its namesake castle and offers various options. The Tan Hill Inn, though slightly further afield, is a well-known pub in a scenic location. You'll often find cafes and pubs in the vicinity of major sites and popular walking routes.