48 Hours in County Durham: A Weekend Escape Full of History, Nature & Charm
City Break | Outdoor Activities | Pub Accommodation | Staycation | Uk Pubs | Posted 2025.04.23
County Durham is a historic and picturesque county in the Northeast of England. Home to Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle, there are numerous historical sites to visit when visiting the area. For those who prefer to get away from the hustle and bustle, the Durham Dales, part of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a wonderful place to go walking and boasts pretty views across the moorlands. The eastern edge of the county offers dramatic cliffs and peaceful beaches like those at Seaham and Crimdon.
Below we have compiled a list of wonderful things to see and do whilst spending 48 hours in County Durham.
Day One: Dive into Durham’s Rich Heritage
Morning: Discover Durham Cathedral and Castle
Start your journey in the heart of the county at Durham City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. No visit here is complete without marvelling at the stunning Durham Cathedral. Known as one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in Europe, this magnificent cathedral offers soaring vaulted ceilings intricate stonework and the tranquil Cloisters (which you may recognise from the Harry Potter films).
Next door, step into the 11th century Durham Castle , once a fortress for Norman kings and now home to University College. Guided tours give fascinating insight into its royal and academic past.
Book a stay at The Kingslodge Inn. Surrounded by peaceful woodland of Flass Vale, but close to the centre of historic Durham. Choose from 23 comfortable en-suite bedrooms. Experience why the pub in the past has been named “Best Venue in County Durham” at the national Pub & Bar Awards, and “One of the 20 Best Places to Stay with a Dog” by the Times.
Midday – Meander Along the River Wear
After soaking in the architecture, take a peaceful riverside walk along the River Wear, which loops around the city in a scenic horseshoe bend. The Durham Riverside Walk offers stunning views of the cathedral and castle perched above the wooded riverbanks.
Afternoon – Beamish, The Living Museum of the North
Spend your afternoon stepping back in time at Beamish Museum, just a short drive from Durham. This open-air museum brings the region’s past to life with recreated towns and villages from the 1820s, 1900s, 1940s and 1950s. You can explore period homes, ride heritage trams and even visit an old colliery – an unforgettable and immersive experience for all ages.
Evening – Sunset at Penshaw Monument
Cap off your first day with a visit to Penshaw Monument, a 19th century folly that stands atop a hill with incredible views over the surrounding countryside. The short walk to the top is well worth it, especially at sunset.
Book a stay at The Seaton Lane Inn, a dog-friendly pub. Choose from a collection of 24 inviting en-suite bedrooms. Enjoy delicious food and drink and discover magical moors popular cities and the dramatic Durham Heritage Coast.
Day Two: Countryside Escapes & Coastal Discoveries
Morning – Stroll Through Hardwick Park
Begin your second day with a peaceful wander through Hardwick Park near Sedgefield. This beautifully landscaped 18th-century park is full of ornamental lakes, classical architecture, and scenic walking trails. It’s a serene spot to enjoy the early light and spot local wildlife.
Late Morning – Explore Raby Castle & Deer Park
Next, make your way to Raby Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in England. The grandeur of the building itself is impressive, but the surrounding 200-acre deer park is equally enchanting. Stroll the grounds and spot herds of red and fallow deer roaming freely among ancient trees.
Afternoon – High Force Waterfall in the North Pennines
No visit to County Durham is complete without venturing into the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. One of the highlights is High Force, England’s largest waterfall by volume. A short scenic walk leads you to the dramatic falls as they plunge 21 metres over a cliff into a deep plunge pool below. Nature at its most awe-inspiring!
If you have extra time, nearby Low Force and the Pennine Way trail offer more walking opportunities through striking moorland and along the River Tees.
Book a stay at the South Causey Inn, a critically acclaimed, family-owned pub, restaurant and cocktail bar nestled 100 acres of Beamish Valley countryside. The pub was named “Best Pub of the Year” at the Destination Northeast England Tourism Awards 2025. Choose from a collection of en-suite double bedrooms and individually themed deluxe hot tub suites, including a fabulous 1960s double-decker bus!
A Weekend Well Spent
From grand cathedrals and majestic castles to dramatic landscapes and open-air museums, County Durham is a place where history, nature, and culture intertwine in the most rewarding ways. Whether you’re wandering ancient woodlands, discovering England’s industrial past, or simply admiring the views, 48 hours in County Durham will leave you enriched, refreshed, and already planning your return.
Alternative Places to Stay
The Impeccable Pig, Sedgefield
The Three Horseshoes, Running Waters
Stockton Arms Hotel, Stockton on Tees
Written by Lucille Skinner
Social Media Assistant