8 Free Days Out and Things to Do With Kids in (County) Durham

Check out these things to do with the kids in Durham, whether it's hunting for fossils at Seaham Beach, or letting off steam at Wharton Park, I've got you covered, and best of all it's free!
 

I'm still adding to this list, so keep checking back, please get in touch if you've got any hidden gems to recommend, or if you have a picture to replace any that I'm missing (ie the places that have words). As a thank you, I'll send a 20% money off voucher to spend in the shop for anything that gets used.

I've tried to make sure that all the details on here are up to date, but please do double check on the websites I've linked to before you travel in case anything has changed. I've sourced a lot of information from 3rd parties so some information might be incorrect (Please let me know if you spot anything that is so that I can amend it). 

Especially important: double check parking costs to avoid any nasty surprises on a day out that was supposed to be cheap, and obviously, be careful if you're visiting places with kids, especially where the terrain is dangerous (ruins, cliffs, beaches, slippy paths etc). 

Happy adventuring!

free things to do with kids in Durham

A park next to the train station with a toddler play area, junior play area, ampitheatre, outdoor gym. Find the sculptures and statues, and burn off some energy with the open space. 

free things to do with kids in Durham

Visit the impressive remains of a 12th century priory, built on the remote site of the hermitage of St Godric. 

free things to do with kids in Durham

The National Railway Museum, in the world's first railway town. A must for any steam enthusiast, highlights include the famous engines Rocket, Locomotion, and Sans Pareil. There's plenty to keep the kids enthralled, as well as a playground. Check the website to see all the upcoming activities. 

free things to do with kids in Durham

A beautiful sandy beach, it's also known for it's role as a breeding ground for the Little Tern, one of the country's rarest sea birds. The sand dunes form part of the Durham Coast National Nature Reserve.

free things to do with kids in Durham

A beautiful 3 mile walk taking you past some beautiful riverside scenery. Very peaceful and tranquil. 

free things to do with kids in Durham

Part of the North Penines AONB, you can find information about how to best enjoy the area. There's a wildlife garden, exhibitions, and activities for kids to get hands on with nature. Take a short walk to Gibson's cave, and Summerhill Force, hunt for invertebrates in the quarry, or play in the mud kitchen. Download activity sheets before you go. 

free things to do with kids in Durham

A country park with historic parkland, a lake, woods, and lots of wildlife. There's also a visitor centre where you can learn about the history of the park. And there's a playground for kids to burn off some energy. 

free things to do with kids in Durham

A nice sandy beach, with areas of rock, backed by a promenade. It's a great beach for hunting for sea glass, fossils, and shells. While you're there, check out the war memorial, Tommy. 

Things to do with kids activity pack

You know what the kids would love to be filling in as you're exploring new places? An epic activity pack! And it should be filled with easy activity ideas, and stickers, and personalised!

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