Recently booked a getaway to Northumberland and County Durham?
We’re here to help you create the perfect itinerary for your holiday.
We’ve put together a local bucket list for Northumberland and County Durham below…
Durham Cathedral
Durham Cathedral is one of England’s most striking and historically rich sights.
With over 1,700 services a year, the site is an idyllic spot to appreciate the beauty of Evensong underneath the stunning vaulted ceiling.
Any wizarding world fanatics may recognise the cathedral grounds as the setting for Hogwarts in some scenes within the Harry Potter series.
High Force Waterfall
This breathtaking waterfall cascades 70 feet over an almost vertical cliff edge. The spectacle can be reached via the Pennine Way public footpath, a picturesque woodland trail that crosses through the Moor House-Upper Teesdale National Nature Reserve. The waterfall is a year-round attraction, with water levels constantly changing, you can expect a unique experience with every visit. The surrounding area is the perfect sanctuary for nature, with rabbits and deer being just a few of the frequent visitors.
The Farne Islands
For nature lovers, the Farne Islands is an unforgettable experience.
Sir David Attenborough described the Farne Islands as his favourite place in the UK to see ‘magnificent nature’.
Possibly the most exciting seabird colonies in England, the Island is home to over 23 species of birds and around 43,000 pairs of puffins. It is also a primary pupping site, with more than 2,000 pups born every autumn.
Visitors can see more of the inaccessible islets on boat trips available from nearby Seahouses.
Longsands Beach
Come and see over 2,000 creatures such as seals, playful otters and reduced sea turtles. With the state of the art Night & Day attraction, experience the spectacular coral reef as it moves from night to day in the re-imagined Ocean Tunnel display. Journey underneath turtles and tropical fish – but keep an eye out for the Sharks!
Don’t forget to meet the world’s smallest penguins, the colony of Fairy Penguins. Kids can climb aboard the Caribbean Cove play area and during the summer, they can cool down at the Splash Zone in the outdoor pool and fountains. There are three outlets serving sandwiches, drinks, snacks and ice cream as well as pizza and fresh waffles perfect for a bite to eat.
Bamburgh Castle
Visit Corfe Castle at 1/20th of the size! See what the village looked like before its destruction by Cromwell’s troops in 1646 during the English Civil War, when it was home to Lady Bankes.
There is plenty more to see than just the model village though, The gardens are a haven for wildlife with an array of birds visiting frequently throughout the summer months.
A selection of giant games are available for the whole family to enjoy such as draughts, Jenga, Connect Four or try your hand on the Croquet Lawn. For little children, the Enchanted Fairy Walk and Garden is a magical experience that will fire their imaginations.
Blue Reef Aquarium
Located in the Isle of Purbeck, the award-winning, rebuilt railway is a perfect way to enjoy the idyllic landscape of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast. The 12-mile return trip takes you through the stunning countryside of Purbeck and has stops at Corfe Castle, Harman’s Cross and Herston. Refreshment buffets are available at Norden and Swanage with plenty of tables around, perfect for a picnic and soaking in the atmosphere. The station shop at Swanage is filled with souvenirs, model railways and gifts for all ages, great for remembering the day.
Ocean Pleasure Beach
Home to stars of TV’s ‘Monkey Life’ and ‘Monkey Business’, the 65-acre park provides sanctuary for rescued and endangered primates from around the world. Currently, there are 54 chimpanzees at Monkey World and rescued from countries such as Spain, Greece, Dubai, Thailand, Saudi Arabia and more.
The keepers provide educational talks throughout the day sharing information about the parks residents and their story on getting to the rescue centre. The park runs an amazing variety of family-friendly events throughout the year, including the Easter Egg Extravaganza.
Diggerland, Durham
Visit the world’s best collection of tanks and witness explosive live displays at Dorset’s Tank Museum. With nine incredible exhibitions featuring over 300 military machines, discover over a century of history being brought to life.
Last year, the museum opened the brand new Second World War exhibition, sharing the story of the British tank crewman through artefacts and interviews with war veterans. A not to be missed event for any history lovers! Also on offer are trails and quizzes, interactive, indoor and outdoor play areas and free talks and tours throughout the day.
The museum holds numerous special events throughout the year such as Tankfest and VE Day Anniversary celebrations.
Northumberland National Park
Located in the centre of Poole Harbour, this island wildlife sanctuary is home to some thriving wildlife such as red squirrel, kingfishers and peacocks that can be seen wandering near the 19th-century church.
The island has had many purposes throughout history from cattle and daffodil farming to pottery, shards of ceramics that were once crafted there can still be found around Pottery Pier. Explore the island using the free trails perfect for nature-loving children. With new natural plays and perfect picnic spots, the island is a perfect adventure for all the family.
Beadnell Bay
Located on the Isle of Purbeck, this Educational Charitable Trust provides expert tuition on traditional stone carving skills.
The centre also offers a range of art and craft courses along with activities for families and children throughout the year.
Use tools to create your stone design and learn about the quarrying history of Purbeck surrounded by the stunning scenery over the Swanage Bay towards the Isle of Wight.
Beamish Museum
Beamish Museum is an immersive, unique, open-air experience where the past comes to life around you!
Catch a vintage tram ride down the bustling 1900s cobbled high street or look around the vintage pubs, shops, and houses filled with costumed guides.
TIP: Don’t leave before trying the fish and chips from Dave’s!