Things to Do in Durham with Kids

Durham offers a wonderfully rich and historic experience, and we’ve found it's a destination that can really capture the imagination of families looking for a memorable UK adventure. Let’s explore what options are best suited to keeping everyone entertained, from the youngest explorers to those who enjoy delving into history.

The most obvious starting point for any family visit is undoubtedly a walking tour. Durham boasts an impressive 27 different walking tours available, and with prices ranging from just £5 to a substantial £366, there’s something to suit almost every budget. The sheer volume of tours suggests a strong demand, and these tend to be particularly effective for families – they provide a fantastic way to orient yourselves within the city, absorbing key landmarks and historical narratives in an engaging way. A good walking tour allows children to move at their own pace (within the group’s general flow), and many routes incorporate fascinating stories that will hold their attention. The top-rated option, "Durham - Cathedral and Old City Private Tour" with a 5.0/5 rating, is particularly well-suited; its private nature means it can be tailored to your family's interests and needs, offering a more flexible experience.

We believe the walking tours offer the best value for families looking to get their bearings and learn about Durham’s incredible past. The cost of these tours – ranging from a very modest £5 to a significant investment – means you can choose one that aligns with your family's spending preferences, and they are generally a fantastic way to see the main sights without tiring little legs.

Beyond simply exploring on foot, there are opportunities for more active engagement with the city’s waterways. While specific boat tours aren’t listed as a formal tour category, Durham is undeniably built around the River Wear, and families will undoubtedly enjoy spending time by its banks. The river itself offers fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to let children run around and explore – simply ensuring they remain safely away from the water's edge, of course. This type of unstructured play can be incredibly rewarding for kids, offering them a break from more formal sightseeing activities.

For families who enjoy delving into history in a slightly different way, we also suggest considering the walking tours that focus on specific historical periods or events within Durham’s long and fascinating story. The sheer concentration of castles, cathedrals, and Roman remains means there's a wealth of material to spark children's curiosity – tales of knights, bishops, and ancient settlements can be brought vividly to life through guided exploration.

Now, let's consider the tour categories that might be less ideal for families with young children. While we have 27 walking tours available, options like those focused on evening activities or pub experiences aren’t typically geared towards younger audiences. These types of tours tend to focus on adult interests – local ales and nightlife are generally not appealing to most children!

Furthermore, the price ranges offered across the various tour categories provide a useful guide for budgeting. The lower end of the scale (£5 - £366) allows for flexibility; you could choose a shorter walking tour for a quick overview or invest in a more detailed private experience if your family is particularly interested in a specific aspect of Durham’s history.

To help you plan, let's look at a possible day out. We suggest starting with one of the walking tours – perhaps focusing on the Cathedral and its stunning architecture. This will provide a fantastic introduction to Durham’s most iconic landmark. Following this, allow for some free time by the River Wear; children can enjoy playing near the water, sketching, or simply soaking up the atmosphere. Lunch could be a picnic in one of the city's parks – there are several green spaces offering pleasant respite from the urban environment. In the afternoon, you might consider exploring one of Durham’s historic streets, perhaps picking up some local souvenirs.

Remember to factor in travel time between locations and allow for plenty of breaks. A well-planned day out doesn’t have to be rushed; it's about creating shared experiences that your family will cherish. With careful planning, you can transform a visit to Durham into an unforgettable adventure for the whole family. The variety of tour options available means you're sure to find something to suit everyone’s interests and budget, ensuring a truly memorable trip.