You can’t visit Durham without stepping inside its most iconic building, and the best bit? It’s completely free. Durham Cathedral has been welcoming visitors for nearly a thousand years, and its doors are open daily for anyone to explore. Wander through the awe-inspiring nave and cloisters where Harry Potter scenes were filmed, spot tiny carvings in the stonework, and listen to the peaceful echo of footsteps under the vaulted ceilings.
Families can pick up free self-guided trail sheets to make the visit more fun for younger explorers. Outside, Palace Green offers one of the best picnic spots in the city, framed by the Cathedral and Castle. Outside, Palace Green offers one of the best picnic spots in the city, framed by the Cathedral and Castle. If you’re lucky, you might even see the peregrine falcons that nest on the Cathedral towers soaring overhead – a perfect mix of history and nature in one place.
Wharton Park
Sitting high above the city next to the train station, Wharton Park is full of charm and panoramic views of Durham Cathedral. There’s a fantastic play area, landscaped gardens, and plenty of open space for picnics. The butterfly borders are alive with colour in summer, and the park’s mix of history and modern design makes it a lovely place to spend a relaxed afternoon.
Hardwick Park, Sedgefield
One of Durham’s prettiest public parks, full of bridges, follies and sculptures to discover on a circular lakeside walk. It’s completely free to enter, with only a small charge for parking. The paths are pushchair-friendly, and there’s always wildlife to spot, from swans gliding across the water to red squirrels darting through the trees.
Auckland Castle Deer Park
Step into history and nature at once. The Deer Park, part of the Auckland Project, is open daily with miles of peaceful trails winding through woodland and meadows. It’s perfect for a quiet stroll or a family bike ride, and you might just glimpse deer among the trees if you visit early or late in the day.
Low Force Waterfall
A short, easy riverside walk from Bowlees Visitor Centre leads to these beautiful cascades on the River Tees. The meadows along the way are full of wildflowers in summer, and there are flat spots where you can stop for a snack or skim stones. It’s a simple but magical walk, especially after a bit of rain when the falls are roaring.
Bowlees Visitor Centre & Nature Trails
Bowlees is a brilliant base for exploring Teesdale. Pop inside to pick up a free map, then head out on one of the short woodland or meadow trails starting right from the car park. The trails are family-friendly and dotted with picnic tables, sculptures, and wildlife spotting points. In summer, you can often join free nature-themed events and activities for children.
Tees Railway Path
Once a railway line, now a traffic-free track perfect for walking, cycling or pushchair strolls. The route follows the River Tees, offering gentle gradients and big views of the valley. It’s ideal for families wanting a relaxed countryside walk with plenty of fresh air.
Finchale Priory
Just outside the city, this 12th-century riverside ruin is a dreamy spot for a picnic. Wander among the old stone arches, watch the River Wear drift by, and imagine what monastic life must have been like here centuries ago. It’s peaceful, picturesque and completely free to explore.
Escomb Saxon Church
Near Bishop Auckland, this tiny stone church dates back to the 7th century and is one of the oldest in England. It’s tucked away in a quiet village, surrounded by birdsong and countryside views. Step inside to feel the sense of timeless calm – it’s small but full of atmosphere.
Auckland Castle Deer Park
The parkland itself is free to enter and surrounds one of Durham’s most impressive historic homes. Enjoy a leisurely stroll beneath the old oaks and along the river, spotting the remnants of medieval walls and gateways along the way.
Durham University Botanic Garden
The main exhibitions require paid entry, but the woodland edge and river path nearby are free and full of seasonal colour. In spring, the cherry blossoms and bluebells are gorgeous; in autumn, the trees turn gold.
Crook Hall Gardens (public spaces nearby)
While Crook Hall itself now operates as a café and wedding venue, the surrounding riverside paths remain free to explore. You’ll find wildflower borders, views across the river to the Cathedral, and quiet corners perfect for sketching or reading.
Hardwick Park Gardens
The ornamental lakes and woodland at Hardwick make it feel like a stately home garden, minus the entry fee. Families love following the circular route around the lake, spotting ducks, swans, and the odd heron fishing in the shallows.
Durham Miners’ Gala (The Big Meeting)
One of the region’s most famous events, the Gala is full of colour, music and community spirit. Brass bands, parades and street stalls fill the city in July, and it’s free to attend – just bring your walking shoes and a camera.
Durham Christmas Festival
The city centre turns festive with markets, carols and twinkling lights each December. Entry to the markets and performances in the streets is free, and the atmosphere is magical for families.
Bishop Auckland Food Festival
A huge annual event drawing crowds from across the North East. While the food stalls charge individually, entry to the festival itself is free, and there’s plenty of live music, cooking demos and children’s entertainment to enjoy without spending a penny.
