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12 January 2024
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From Harry Potter filming locations to breathtaking waterfalls, Durham & the North Pennines pack history, drama, and jaw-dropping landscapes into one unforgettable region. Here are our top five picks ready for you to add to your itinerary, with a few tips and tricks to make your adventure smoother!
No trip is complete without visiting the iconic Durham Cathedral! This Harry Potter hotspot (remember the Cloister Garth as Hogwarts’ courtyard?) is one of England’s oldest – and most breathtaking. For the best experience, opt for a guided tour—the knowledgeable guides bring the castle’s past to life with stories of bishops, battles, and student traditions. For the ultimate view, climb the 325-step tower (£7.50) – the panorama over the River Wear is worth every step.
Just a stone’s throw away, Durham Castle hides even more secrets. This Norman fortress-turned-student-dorm offers £5 guided tours where you’ll spot Civil War bullet holes and a 17th-century “Black Staircase” (rumored to be haunted by scholarly ghosts). Hot tip: Parking’s tricky – Sidegate Car Park is your best bet for campers.
This 850ft, 108ft-high viaduct was built to transport coal and lead before falling into decay in the 1970s. Revitalized in the 1990s, it now offers dizzying views of the South Tyne Valley. Extend your walk 2 miles north to Featherstone Castle, site of a WWII POW camp. Parking: Use Lambley Viaduct South Tyne Trail Car Park—Google Maps directions are unreliable.
For nature lovers, High Force Waterfall is an absolute must-see. Plunging 69 feet into a rocky gorge, this is one of England’s most powerful waterfalls. The easiest access is via the High Force Hotel, where a small entry fee (£3.50–£9, depending on group size) grants you access to well-maintained woodland trails leading to the falls. The easy trail from High Force Hotel is pram-friendly, but thrill-seekers can tackle the Bowlees Geo Trail to secluded Low Force.
Why it’s special: That thunderous roar? It’s been soundtracking the Pennines for 300 million years.
Perched above the River Tees, this 12th-century fortress was expanded by Richard III (spot his boar emblem). Explore these impressive ruins, which offer a fascinating glimpse into England’s medieval past, wander the sensory garden, then claim a picnic spot by the River Tees (locals swear by fish-and-chips here), this castle is definitely a must see! Open April-September, with tickets from £7.50. Parking: Galgate Morrisons accommodates camper vans.
Tucked away near Barnard Castle, Summerhill Force is a lesser-known waterfall with a fascinating backstory. Behind the cascading water lies Gibson’s Cave, where legend says a 16th-century outlaw, William Gibson, once hid from the law. Locals supposedly smuggled him food and supplies, adding a touch of folklore to this already enchanting spot. The half-mile walk from Bowlees Visitor Centre ends with homemade cake at the café. Gobsmacking doesn’t cover it.
From the soaring arches of Durham Cathedral to the thunderous roar of High Force, Durham & the North Pennines deliver unforgettable adventures at every turn. Whether you’re tracing Harry Potter filming locations, walking in the footsteps of outlaws, or soaking up panoramic valley views, this region rewards explorers with rich history and raw natural beauty.
Want to discover even more? Dive deeper into Northumberland, the North East, and beyond with our Road Trip Northumberland Guide Book – The Ultimate Guide To Northumberland. Packed with hidden gems, practical tips, and stunning routes, it’s your passport to the North’s wildest landscapes. Click the link below to explore!
