Durham – step off the train and into a county full of surprises.

Next Stop: Durham – step off the train and into a county full of surprises.

Hop on a train and make Durham your next stop – a county packed with incredible experiences, world-class attractions, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable adventures. With direct TransPennine Express train routes, it’s never been easier to start your journey of discovery.

Next Stop… Incredible Attractions

Step off the train and straight into the heart of Durham’s story. At Beamish, The Living Museum of the North, you’ll be transported back in time across 350 acres of interactive history. Ride a tram through the 1900s, say hello to the pit ponies, enjoy fish and chips by the pit village, and treat yourself in the Edwardian sweet shop – all brought to life by costumed characters.

Just a short journey away from Durham City, The Auckland Project in Bishop Auckland is home to a unique collection of attractions. Explore the impressive Auckland Palace, former home of the powerful Prince Bishops. Visit The Spanish Gallery and delve into 6,000 years of history at The Faith Museum – the UK’s only museum dedicated to the history of Faith in Britain.

In the Durham Dales, Raby Castle, Park and Gardens awaits. Wander through medieval halls and perfectly landscaped gardens, spot deer in the parkland, and let the kids loose in The Plotters’ Forest adventure playground. It’s a countryside day out with a noble twist.

Rail enthusiasts won’t want to miss Locomotion in Shildon – the world’s first railway town. See the largest collection of heritage rail vehicles under cover in Europe and explore Durham’s key role in railway history. The museum is a major hub for this year’s 200th anniversary of the Stockton & Darlington Railway celebrations, with an exciting international festival taking place from March to November 2025.

Art and history lovers can marvel at the collections inside The Bowes Museum, an iconic French-style building in Barnard Castle, and explore the spectacular chapels, historic house, and beautiful gardens at Ushaw Historic House, Chapels and Gardens.

In need of a little retail therapy? Head to Dalton Park Outlet and Outdoors on the Durham Heritage Coast, home to over 65 designer and high-street brands, just a short hop from Seaham train station or direct bus from Durham City.

Next Stop… Adventure Awaits

Durham is bursting with outdoor experiences too. From riverside strolls in the heart of historic Durham City and scenic hikes in the Durham Dales, to the dramatic views of the Durham Heritage Coast, there’s a route for every kind of explorer.

At High Force Waterfall, you’ll hear the roar before you see it – a true natural spectacle. Hamsterley Forest offers woodland walking, cycling trails and family-friendly fun, just a short journey from Bishop Auckland.

The county also features 34.6 miles of the Pennine Way, the UK’s first National Trail, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2025. Walk through wild moorland, alongside sparkling reservoirs, and past remote beauty spots – a perfect way to explore on foot.

Next Stop… Relax and Recharge

After a day of exploring, relax in one of Durham’s many amazing places to stay.

Unwind in five-star luxury at Seaham Hall and Serenity Spa on the coast. Enjoy a city-centre break at Radisson Blu Hotel Durham, right on the riverside. Or sleep surrounded by grandeur at Lumley Castle, where medieval charm meets modern comfort. Looking for something truly different? Try a peaceful stay at Ushaw, surrounded by gothic architecture and glorious gardens.

With so much to see and do, one day just isn’t enough – make it a short break to remember.

Plan your perfect break at: thisisdurham.com/nextstop

Travelling by train is a stress-free, scenic, and sustainable way to experience Durham. With many direct trains and excellent rail connections from major UK cities via TransPennine Express, you can reduce your carbon footprint while maximising your adventure.

So leave the car behind and let the train take the strain. Durham is ready to welcome you – all you have to do is hop on board.