Planning a family day out doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Durham is packed with history, green spaces, and exciting places for children to explore, all of which can be enjoyed for free, or very little if you add on transport or parking. Whether you’re visiting Durham for the day, are staying for a holiday or are looking for some local adventures, these 6 free things to do in Durham with kids will make your adventure planning easier so you can focus on having fun and making memories with your family.
1. Visit Wharton Park
Wharton Park is one of Durham’s best free family attractions. It has a large playground with equipment that is suitable for different ages where you can easily pass an hour or two on a nice day. There are also lots of large grassy spaces where you can sit and enjoy a picnic, take a ball or even set up some garden games.
The addition of the sensory garden is also a great adventure for children and if you have any energy left then make sure you climb the hill for fantastic city views.
If you know the dates you are visiting Durham in advance then always check the website as they often have activities going on, especially during school holidays. Everything from bands playing in the band stand to shows by the local theatre.
2. Walk Along the River Wear
The riverside paths around Durham are perfect for family walks. Children can watch ducks and swans, throw sticks into the river, and enjoy plenty of open space to burn off energy.
There are several routes to choose from, ranging from short strolls to longer circular walks, all offering beautiful views of Durham Cathedral and Castle.
3. Dragon Hunting Around the City
Turn sightseeing into an adventure by creating your own dragon hunt. Durham’s historic streets are filled with fascinating statues, gargoyles, carvings, and mythical creatures hiding in plain sight.
Challenge your children to spot as many dragons and strange stone faces as they can while exploring the city centre.
It’s a fantastic way to keep younger children engaged while walking.
4. Durham Cathedral
Take a trip to Durham Cathedral and visit the resting places of iconic Northern saints St Cuthbert and the Venerable Bede. It’s a beautiful, peaceful building where you can soak up the faith, learn about it’s history and enjoy the beauty of the stained glass windows. It also has its own museum where you can see the treasures of St Cuthbert on display in the spaces which were previously part of Durham’s medieval Benedictine monastery. Entry is free but donations ae welcome.
5. Museums
There are a number of free museum across Durham but the two we would recommend are the Oriental Museum and the museum of Durham’s History.
The oriental museum is gives you the opportunity to explore the different regions of north Africa and Asia via different dedicated galleries. You will find a whole host of art work, artifacts and interactive activities for learning through play.
The second museum we would recommend, especially if you have inquisitive kids, is the museum of Durham History. Here you can explore Durham’s rich history, including its tobacco and textile industries, civil rights movement, and local heritage via interactive activities.
Check the websites before going if you have chance as both museums often have special events that you can book on to, mostly free.
6. Take a Self-Guided Treasure Hunt Around Durham
Create your own walking treasure hunt by making a list of things to find:
- A castle
- A bridge
- A dragon carving
- A squirrel
- A boat on the river
- A gargoyle
- A colourful flower
- A street performer
Children love ticking items off their list, and it turns an ordinary walk into an exciting adventure.
You may also like