Looking for the best things to do in Durham with the family? Whether you’re local to the North East or planning a weekend break, Durham City and the surrounding county offer an incredible mix of history, nature, adventure, and hands-on fun that appeals to toddlers, teenagers, and adults alike.
From the world-famous Durham Cathedral and Castle (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) to hidden gem museums and vast country parks, here are the top 10 things to do in Durham that guarantee happy kids and relaxed parents.
1. Explore Durham Cathedral and Castle (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
No list of things to do in Durham City would be complete without the iconic Cathedral and Castle. Perched dramatically above the River Wear, these 900-year-old buildings starred as Hogwarts in the early Harry Potter films and still wow visitors today.
- Climb the Cathedral’s 325-step Central Tower for panoramic views (children over 8 welcome).
- Join a family-friendly guided tour or pick up the free “Explorer Backpacks” filled with activities for 5–11-year-olds.
- Visit the Open Treasure exhibition – interactive displays, the monastic cloister, and the actual Lego model of the cathedral built from 350,000 bricks!
Tip: Book tower climb tickets in advance, especially during school holidays.
2. Cruise the River Wear with Prince Bishop River Cruiser
One of the most relaxing things to do in Durham with kids is hopping aboard the Prince Bishop River Cruiser. These one-hour commented cruises depart from Brown’s Boatyard beneath Elvet Bridge and glide past the cathedral peninsula.
- Spot herons, kingfishers, and even the occasional otter.
- The boat has a covered lower deck (perfect for British weather) and an open top deck for sunny days.
- Children under 5 travel free; family tickets are excellent value.
3. Get Hands-On at the Diggerland Durham Adventure Park
Just 15 minutes from Durham City in Langley Park lies Diggerland – the UK’s most unusual theme park where children (and adults!) actually drive and operate real diggers and dumpers.
- Over 20 different rides and drives including Spindizzy, Dig-a-Round, and the Dumper Trucks.
- Suitable for ages 3 upwards; height restrictions are generous.
- Indoor soft-play zone and café for when you need a break.
Easily one of the most memorable family things to do near Durham.
4. Meet Monkeys and Lemurs at Adventure Valley
Located only 10 minutes from the city centre in Brasside, Adventure Valley is the North East’s biggest family adventure park.
Highlights:
- Daily animal encounters – feed meerkats, stroke rabbits, and walk with lemurs.
- Massive indoor play barn (perfect for rainy days).
- Go-karts, crazy golf, tractor rides, and outdoor adventure play areas.
- New for 2025: expanded dinosaur trail with animatronic beasts.
Open 362 days a year – a lifesaver during school holidays.
5. Step Back in Time at Beamish – The Living Museum of the North
A 25-minute drive from Durham City, Beamish is routinely voted one of the best family days out in the UK. This open-air museum brings the 1820s, 1900s, and 1940s to life.
- Ride vintage trams and buses.
- Buy sweets from an old-fashioned sweet shop using pre-decimal “old money”.
- Watch costumed demonstrators making bread, fixing horseshoes, or teaching in a 1913 school.
- New in 2025: 1950s Spain’s Field Farm expansion with hands-on farming experiences.
Unlimited free return visits within 12 months with a ticket – incredible value for families.
6. Discover Locomotion – The National Railway Museum at Shildon
Train-mad kids? Locomotion in nearby Shildon (15 minutes away) is completely free and brilliant.
- See Mallard’s sister engine, the Deltic prototype, and even the royal carriages.
- Regular family events including Mini Brick engineers workshops and science shows.
- Huge outdoor play train and picnic area.
Combine with a ride on the Weardale Railway heritage line for the ultimate train day.
7. Walk, Cycle or Picnic at Durham’s Riverside & Country Parks
Durham is surrounded by beautiful green spaces that are perfect for families:
- Low-level riverside walks along the Wear (look out for the “Count’s House” and cathedral views).
- Hardwick Park (Sedgefield) – restored 18th-century park with lakes, temple, and adventure playground.
- Wharton Park – right in the city centre with a new splash pad, miniature car track and café with stunning views.
All have free parking and are pushchair-friendly.
8. Let Off Steam at Down at the Farm (formerly Hall Hill Farm)
One of the region’s favourite traditional farm attractions near Lanchester (20 minutes from Durham).
- Cuddle guinea pigs, bottle-feed lambs (seasonal), and take tractor-trailer rides.
- Huge outdoor play area with zip wires and trampolines.
- Indoor barn with pedal tractors and soft play.
Very popular with pre-schoolers and primary-age children.
9. Dive into History at the Oriental Museum & Durham University Botanic Garden
Often overlooked, the Oriental Museum on the university campus is free (donations welcome) and surprisingly child-friendly.
- Egyptian mummies, samurai armour, and interactive Chinese dragon dances.
- Regular craft sessions and storytelling.
- Next door, the Botanic Garden has a superb insect house, glasshouses, and woodland walks, and outdoor sculptures.
Perfect for a quieter day.
10. Catch a Show or Workshop at Gala Theatre & Cinema
Right in the heart of Durham City on Millennium Place, the Gala offers:
- Family-friendly theatre shows, pantomimes, and children’s cinema screenings.
- Regular craft and drama workshops during school holidays.
- Attached Moorhouse’s Café with excellent kids’ menu and high-chair provision.
Check the website early – popular shows sell out fast!
Bonus Tips for Visiting Durham with Children
- Parking: Prince Bishops or the Park & Ride are easiest with kids.
- Eating Out: Treats at Flat White, Leonards Coffee, or the indoor Market Hall (great street food stalls).
- Rainy Day Backup: The Gala, Oriental Museum, and Adventure Valley’s indoor play barn.
- Best time to visit: May–September for festivals (Durham Book Festival, Brass, Miners’ Gala) or December for the magical Christmas markets and Lumiere light festival (every other year).
Final Thoughts
Durham might be compact, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to family-friendly activities. Whether your children love history, animals, outdoor adventures, or simply running wild, there really is something for everyone.
So pack the wellies, book a few tickets in advance (Diggerland, Beamish, and the Cathedral tower especially), and get ready for an unforgettable family break in one of the most beautiful and welcoming cities.
Durham isn’t just a city break destination – it’s a playground for all ages.
