The Durham Regatta is one of the North East’s most historic and iconic sporting events. Often called the “Henley of the North,” the Regatta brings two days of competitive rowing, riverside entertainment and festival atmosphere to the River Wear in Durham City.
The 193rd Durham Regatta will take place in June 2026, attracting rowing clubs, spectators and families from across the UK.
Established in 1834, Durham Regatta is one of the oldest regattas in the country. Over the years it has become a major summer highlight, combining competitive rowing with a relaxed, scenic day out along the river.
Visitors can enjoy:
Two days of rowing races on the River Wear
Viewing spots along the riverbanks and city bridges
Refreshments, food stalls and family-friendly riverside areas
A lively festival feel in and around Durham City
A chance to watch beginners, university teams and elite rowers all compete
It’s a brilliant event for both sports fans and those simply looking for a picturesque summer outing.
The Regatta traditionally runs on the second weekend of June each year.
Exact 2026 race times and schedules will be confirmed closer to the event.
With Durham Cathedral rising above the river and boats gliding along the Wear, the Regatta offers one of the most beautiful viewing settings in the region. Many visitors enjoy spending part of the day watching the races and the rest exploring Durham’s cafés, parks and riverside walks.
If you’re visiting in June, The Barn Oakenshaw is an ideal place to stay. Located within easy reach of Durham City, our countryside accommodation provides a peaceful retreat after a busy day by the river.
Guests appreciate:
Comfortable, spacious self-catering accommodation
Private parking and easy access to Durham
Quiet rural surroundings perfect for relaxing after the event
Whether you’re attending to support a team, enjoy a summer weekend away or simply experience a historic North East tradition, staying nearby makes your visit stress-free and enjoyable.
Arrive early to secure a good riverside viewing spot.
Parking in Durham can be busy during the Regatta — use park and ride where possible.
Bring comfortable footwear for walking along the riverbanks.
✨ Weardale Railway – Santa Express ✨
Various dates throughout November & December 2025
Climb aboard the Santa Express for one of the most magical festive experiences in County Durham. The historic Weardale Railway transforms into a Christmas wonderland, offering a heart-warming adventure for families and children of all ages.
🎅 What to Expect:
🚂 A beautifully decorated vintage train filled with festive cheer
🎄 Twinkling lights, cosy carriages & Christmas music
🎁 A special visit from Santa himself as he walks through the train
🧝 Friendly elves helping with gifts, games & festive fun
📜 Each child receives a named present from Santa
📸 Plenty of magical photo opportunities
🎤 Live entertainment and storytelling throughout the journey
❄️ Scenic winter views of the Weardale countryside
The Santa Express is designed to feel like stepping straight into a Christmas storybook — a joyful, nostalgic experience perfect for making family memories.
Santa Express – Christmas Railway – 21st November to 24th December 2025
✨ Raby Castle – Enchanted Christmas Light Trail ✨
Sat 15 Nov 2025 – Sun 4 Jan 2026
Step into a world of festive magic at the Enchanted Christmas Light Trail at Raby Castle — one of County Durham’s most breath-taking winter experiences. Wander through glowing woodland paths, shimmering light installations, and beautifully illuminated castle grounds as the historic estate transforms into a sparkling wonderland for the season.
Expect a magical evening filled with:
🎄 Twinkling tunnels of light
✨ Enchanted forest scenes
🕯️ Atmospheric projections on the castle
🍭 Festive food cabins, drinks & treats
👨👩👧 A family-friendly trail perfect for all ages
📸 Stunning photo moments at every turn
Whether you’re visiting as a family, a couple, or bringing the whole group, Raby’s light trail delivers a truly unforgettable festive experience — a perfect way to start (or end!) your Christmas celebrations.
Christmas at Raby | Raby Castle | High Force | County Durham
✨ Gala Durham Pantomime – Jack and the Beanstalk ✨
20 November – 31 December 2025
Get ready for laughter, magic, and plenty of “Oh yes it is!” as the much-loved Gala Durham Pantomime returns with Jack and the Beanstalk. A cherished Christmas tradition in the North East, this spectacular show is packed with hilarious comedy, catchy songs, dazzling costumes, and unforgettable family fun.
🌱 What to Expect:
🎭 Classic panto humour — silly jokes, playful chaos, and lots of audience participation
🌟 A talented cast bringing Jack, Dame Trott, the Giant and all your favourites to life
🎶 Big musical numbers the whole family will be singing for days
✨ Impressive staging & magical effects that make the beanstalk truly spectacular
👧 A perfect festive outing for kids, parents, grandparents… everyone!
With laughter, surprises and feel-good festive energy from start to finish, the Gala Panto continues to be one of Durham’s most popular Christmas family events. Expect booing, cheering, shouting “He’s behind you!”, and leaving with your cheeks aching from smiling.
A brilliant tradition for creating Christmas memories and kicking off the holiday season with joy.
21 November – 31 December 2025
Just minutes from The Barn Oakenshaw, AGLOW transforms the historic grounds of Auckland Castle into a breathtaking illuminated winter trail. Wander through the enchanting Deer Park as thousands of sparkling lights, glowing sculptures, and magical projections turn the landscape into a Christmas wonderland.
🎄 What to Expect:
🌟 Mesmerising light installations and immersive displays
✨ A magical festive trail perfect for all ages
🏰 Stunning views of the castle illuminated under the night sky
❄️ A cosy, atmospheric walk through the Deer Park
📸 Beautiful photo spots around every corner
🎶 Seasonal music adding to the festive mood
Aglow at Auckland Palace – An illuminated Christmas light trail
✨ Christmas at Beamish Museum ✨
22 Nov – 24 Dec, 27–31 Dec & 2–4 Jan 2026
Step back in time and experience the magic of Christmas through the ages at Beamish Museum — the North East’s award-winning open-air museum, transformed into a festive world like no other.
Wander through the beautifully recreated towns, villages, and pit communities as they come alive with seasonal traditions, costumed characters, and old-fashioned charm. A perfect day out for families, couples, and groups looking to soak up Christmas nostalgia.
🎄 Expect a magical experience filled with:
🕯 Traditional Christmas decorations from different eras
🍬 Sweet shops, bakeries & festive treats made the old-fashioned way
🚂 Vintage trams and buses decked out for the season
🎶 Carol singers, brass bands & live music
👨👩👧 Hands-on crafts, storytelling & winter activities for children
🎁 Historic shops and stalls for unique Christmas gifts
🌲 Cosy firesides and glowing lantern-lit streets
Every corner of Beamish feels like stepping into a living Christmas card — perfect for making seasonal memories.
✨ Christmas Concerts – Durham Cathedral ✨
22 & 25 November 2025
Experience the true magic of Christmas inside one of England’s most breathtaking historic buildings. The annual Christmas Concerts at Durham Cathedral fill the grand Norman nave with soaring festive music, classical arrangements, choral harmonies, and the unmistakable warmth of the season.
This is Christmas at its most beautiful.
🎶 Expect an unforgettable evening of:
✨ Timeless carols and orchestral performances
🕯 Atmospheric candlelit moments
🎻 The Christmas Orchestra playing seasonal favourites
🎤 Stunning choir solos echoing through the ancient stone
🎄 A magical start to the festive period for families, couples & groups
There’s nothing quite like hearing Christmas music under Durham Cathedral’s spectacular vaulted ceiling — a moment that stays with you long after the final note.
The Christmas Orchestra at Durham Cathedral – Durham Cathedral
22 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026 (Selected Dates)
Wander through a magical illuminated woodland at Beamish Hall’s Forest of Light — a beautifully crafted 45–60 minute trail filled with glowing surprises, gentle music and festive wonder.
🌲 What to Expect:
✨ Enchanted woodland path with glowing installations
🍄 Light-up fungi, twinkling trees & projected scenes
🎶 Musical bridges that trigger carols as you walk
👶 Ideal for young children — enchanting but not overwhelming
♿ SEN-friendly sessions available
💷 Tickets approx. £12–£13 (infants free)
Running on select evenings between 4–8pm, this compact yet immersive trail is a perfect festive outing for families, couples and friends.
Visit the official site for dates, times & tickets.
✨ The Snowman with Live Orchestra ✨
Saturday 6 December 2025
Experience one of the most heart-warming Christmas traditions brought to life with breathtaking live music. The Snowman — the beloved animated classic — will be screened with a full live orchestra, creating an unforgettable festive event for families, children, and anyone who loves the magic of Christmas.
🕯️ What to Expect:
🎼 Live orchestral performance of Howard Blake’s iconic score
❄️ The timeless story of friendship, wonder and winter adventure
👧 Family-friendly atmosphere filled with excitement and festive joy
🎤 Often accompanied by a live young soloist singing “Walking in the Air”
🎬 Big-screen projection for an immersive experience
🎄 A perfect introduction to classical music for children
The combination of enchanting animation and a rich, live orchestral soundtrack creates a truly magical Christmas moment — the kind that stays with families for years to come.
Many performances also include:
✨ Short winter-inspired musical pieces
✨ Special festive introductions
✨ Wonderful photo opportunities for the little ones
This is one of the region’s most treasured seasonal events — a gentle, nostalgic, and emotionally uplifting celebration of the holidays, perfect for audiences of all ages.
Thursday 4 – Sunday 7 December 2025
Step into a festive winter wonderland as Bishop Auckland transforms into Christmas Town — one of the North East’s most magical family Christmas events. The town centre comes alive with sparkling lights, themed displays, artisan markets, and seasonal entertainment for all ages.
🌟 What to Expect:
🎁 Traditional Christmas market with gifts, crafts, local produce & festive treats
🎄 Spectacular light installations and beautifully decorated streets
🎅 Santa’s Grotto & children’s activities
🎶 Live music, choirs & street performers bringing the town to life
✨ Ice rink, funfair rides & festive attractions
🍫 Hot chocolate huts, mulled wine stands & delicious street food
🏰 Close to Auckland Castle and the Market Place
Whether you’re Christmas shopping, enjoying festive family fun, or soaking in the seasonal atmosphere, Bishop Auckland Christmas Town delivers a joyful, heart-warming start to December.
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