1. Durham Light Infantry Collection

The Durham Light Infantry Collection is a must-see for those who are fans of military history. With an impressive variety of artifacts and memorabilia, the collection offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the life of a soldier in the Durham Light Infantry. Don't come expecting to see any actual light infantry, though, because that would be both impossible and disturbing.

2. Palace Green

Welcome to Palace Green in the historic city of Durham! Here lies the famous Durham Cathedral, a fortress-like structure with tall spires that will leave you feeling gloriously puny. Take a stroll around the green and marvel at the exquisite architecture while wondering how the heck they built such impressive buildings without bulldozers and cranes.

www.durhamworldheritagesite.com

3. Dinosaur Encounter

Prepare to be transported back to the Jurassic era at Dinosaur Encounter in Durham. The interactive exhibit is a prehistoric playground for both kids and adults alike. Get up close and personal with life-sized dinosaurs, but don't try to pet them - they may be a little rusty on their social skills.

www.golf-attractions.com

4. The Durham Museum and Heritage Centre

The Durham Museum and Heritage Centre is a must-see if you're looking for a day filled with history and culture, and don't mind being trapped indoors for a while. It's conveniently located in the heart of Durham, so you'll have no excuse for getting lost in the middle of nowhere. Plus, with all the informative exhibits and knowledgeable staff, you'll be able to impress your friends with your newfound knowledge of local history - or bore them to death, whatever works for you.

durhammuseum.co.uk

5. Wharton Park

Nestled amongst the rolling hills of County Durham, you'll find Wharton Park - a picturesque oasis away from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its sweeping lawns, luscious flower beds and sparkling ornamental lake, it's the perfect place to escape the stresses of modern life and embrace a simpler, more peaceful existence. Just don't forget to bring your own picnic - the park's pricey café might leave your wallet feeling a little thin.

www.durham.gov.uk

6. Durham University Botanic Garden

Nestled in the heart of Durham, lies the Botanic Garden - the ultimate haven for plant enthusiasts and soon-to-be-green thumbs alike. Stroll through the gardens and soak up the sights and smells, as you marvel at the weird and wonderful collection of plants from around the world. Be warned, the bird watching here is top-notch - watch out for overconfident fowl trying to steal your lunch.

www.dur.ac.uk

7. The National Museum of the Royal Navy Hartlepool

Located in the heart of Durham, The National Museum of the Royal Navy Hartlepool offers visitors the chance to explore Britain's rich naval history without getting seasick. Wander through the museum and learn how the sailors survived on board the HMS Trincomalee, the world's second oldest warship afloat, or pretend you're the captain of a submarine in the interactive exhibits. And don't worry if you get lost, just follow the sound of the seagulls and you'll end up right back where you started.

www.nmrn.org.uk

8. Beamish - The Living Museum of the North

Beamish - The Living Museum of the North is a big hit with history lovers, hipsters, and anyone who's ever wondered what life was like before smartphones. With streets full of period shops and homes, it's like stepping into a time machine without any risk of being exterminated by Daleks. And if you're feeling peckish, they've got old-fashioned sweets, fish and chips, and even a bakery where they make bread the old-fashioned way, before bread makers rebelled and went rogue.

www.beamish.org.uk

9. Durham Castle

Durham Castle, a towering fortress that looks straight out of a fantasy novel, has been standing for over 900 years. It’s like the grandaddy of all castles, except no one’s ever summoned a dragon here (yet). Inside, you’ll find surprisingly cozy student housing, and if you’re really lucky, maybe you can even snag a room with a moat view.

www.durhamworldheritagesite.com

10. Waldridge Fell Country Park

Waldridge Fell Country Park in Durham is the perfect place to find some peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Or the perfect place to get lost in the woods without a map, your phone battery at 2% and no food or water. Just kidding, there are plenty of well-marked trails, picnic areas, and even a café where you can recharge your phone and yourself.

www.durham.gov.uk

11. The Bowes Museum

As you approach The Bowes Museum in Durham, you may find yourself wondering if you're in the right place. Fear not, for you haven't stumbled upon a grandiose French chateau - although it certainly looks like one. Inside, you'll be transported to a world of fine art, fashion, and curiosity, all housed within a historic building that's as beautiful as it is quirky.

www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk

12. Adventure Valley

Deep in the heart of Durham, amidst the lush greenery and picturesque landscapes, lies Adventure Valley - a place where adventure and thrills await. Here, the excitement knows no bounds, as you can hop on board a tractor ride, scream your lungs out on Europe's largest go-kart track or come face to face with all kinds of critters in the petting zoo. So buckle up and get ready for a wild ride!

www.adventurevalley.co.uk

13. Durham Riverside Walk

As you stroll along the Durham Riverside Walk, take in the picturesque views of the River Wear and the historic cityscape. Keep your eyes peeled for wandering ducks and geese, who will no doubt be happy to strike a pose for your Instagram. And if the mood strikes, take a detour and visit the Durham Boat Club to watch the rowers gracefully glide by, while secretly wishing you had their upper body strength.

14. Crook Hall and Gardens

Nestled away from the hustle and bustle of Durham city lies a hidden gem you'll most definitely want to check out - Crook Hall and Gardens. It's the kind of place where you'll start off with a cheeky chuckle as you take in the comedic captions that accompany some of the artwork, and end up guffawing at the fact that you've managed to get lost (yes, it's possible) in the gardens for the umpteenth time. Think of it as a fun day out with your favourite eccentric aunt - it's a little bit quirky, a whole lot of fun, and guaranteed to leave you with a warm and fuzzy feeling that'll last long after you've gone home.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk

15. Bearpark Community Centre and Social Club

Nestled snugly in the serene town of Durham, Bearpark Community Centre and Social Club is a perfect destination for the travelers with a knack for mingling with locals amidst stunning locales. The center, like a warm hug from a friend, greets you with open arms and ample parking space as you drive in to experience the essence of British community life head-on. The social club is an energetic hub of activity, where you can feast on a range of mouth-watering snacks, socialize with friendly locals, and take part in some exciting activities and events.

www.bearpark-pc.org.uk

16. Houghton-le-Spring

Welcome to Houghton-le-Spring, where you'll find more history than you can shake a stick at! Seriously, we have so many old churches and ruins here that you'll start feeling like a time traveler in no time. And if that's not your thing, don't worry - we also have some modern amenities, like a local pub that serves up some world-class fish and chips. So whether you're a history buff or just looking for a good meal, Houghton-le-Spring has something to offer.

17. Auckland Castle

Nestled in the charming town of Durham, Auckland Castle stands tall and proud, waiting to be explored by history lovers and selfie-takers alike. With its impressive architecture and well-kept gardens, it's the perfect spot for a picnic or a game of hide-and-seek (if you're feeling adventurous). And if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the famous Bishop's Throne, which is apparently a very comfortable seat (or so we've heard).

www.aucklandproject.org

18. Diggerland

Welcome to Diggerland in Durham, where you can dig, drive and operate real life construction machinery. It's like being the ultimate sandpit kid, only better, because you're completely in charge of your own digger experience! Take a selfie with a giant JCB, dig a pool with a mini excavator or simply enjoy the sensation of being the biggest (and coolest) kid on the block.

www.diggerland.com

19. Killhope Lead Mining Museum

As you venture into the depths of Killhope Lead Mining Museum, you'll discover the fascinating history of North Pennine lead mining. And if you're lucky, you might even uncover a nugget or two of the good stuff along the way! But beware, this ain't no walk in the park. You're going to have to earn those bragging rights, my friend.

www.killhope.org.uk

20. Durham Cathedral

As you step into Durham Cathedral, you'll be transported back to a time where the word "epic" actually meant something. This is a place where knights used to fight dragons and chivalry was a thing. Seriously, the place is older than most countries and it still looks stunning.

www.durhamcathedral.co.uk