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.

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National Railway Museum was opened in the current premises in 1975, however the collection originated from the early 19th century. Today, the National Railway Museum has a national collection of historically significant railway vehicles and artifacts associated with the railway, with the various written and visual records. You can see here more than 100 locomotives and nearly 200 other vehicles. In 2001 National Railway Museum was awarded as the Best European Museum (European Museum of the Year Award in 2001). In addition to various exhibits you can also ride the giant Ferris wheel and special small train here.

York National Railway Museum, England, UK by Xerones

York National Railway Museum is open all the year daily from 10:00 to 18:00, except of December 24, 25 and 26. Admission is free. It is the biggest railway museum in England and the largest railroad exhibit of its kind in the world.

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