County Durham – The Hidden Attractions | England, UK
As a destination best known as a family favourite and weekend getaways, County Durham is definitely a ‘must visit’ for those looking to avoid the fast pace of city breaks. Located in the North East of England, County Durham is notorious for its picturesque countryside, University Botanic Gardens and the High Force waterfall. Despite such well-known attractions; there are still a number of comparatively undiscovered places you should visit.
Gunners Pool Bridge in Castle Eden Dene / Photo by Les Hull
The Castle Eden Dene national nature reserve is a perfect location for a family day out. With twelve miles of rough paths and steep banks the wooded valley is a sure-fire hit for all the family. If twelve miles is only a short day out for you then the beautiful Hamsterly Forest is perfect. With two thousand hectares of horse riding tracks and cycling routes it’s another great family day out.
If it’s not the outdoors you’re after then try the National Railway Museum. With a variety of different locomotives on show, various special events throughout the year and guided tours it’s the perfect indoors activity. If this sounds a bit unexciting to your family then Diggerland will be right up your street. With over 15 rides, it gives adults and children the chance to drive real construction vehicles including the astounding JCB racing!
County Durham isn’t just a picturesque location; you’ll also find cinemas and theatres’ showing great shows all throughout the year. If it’s shopping that’s your kind of entertainment then you’ll certainly be spoilt for choice with small boutiques and large shopping centres in great supply, there’s something to satisfy every shopping desire.
When it comes to eating out in County Durham you may be pleasantly surprised by the diverse range of choices on offer. If you’re looking for a unique restaurant in County Durham then Blagraves House in Barnard Castle will definitely be on the ‘menu’. In a room with oaks beams and a crested ceiling you can eat where Cromwell once did…you can’t find much more unique than that!
Accommodation in County Durham is another area you won’t be short of choices in. No matter what your budget there’s something for everyone; with accommodation ranging from hostels right up to five star luxury hotels. If a hotel isn’t your style then there’s an extensive range of camping and caravanning sites which make them ideal locations for those looking for an ‘outdoors’ break.
View County Durham in a larger map
Category: United Kingdom
About Europe Explored
EuropeExplored.com serves as a resource of the very best travel destinations from within Europe, including natural attractions, cities, sights, museums, amusement and theme parks, and much much more. We hope that we can help you choose the best holiday destination for you, and ensure easier travel throughout Europe. If you have any questions, or suggestions, please comment below and We'll do our best to answer you.Subscribe
If you enjoyed this article, subscribe to receive more just like it.
