Steeped in the legacy of the Prince Bishops, Durham County offers a breath-taking journey from its rugged Pennine dales to its dramatic heritage coastline. Whether you are marvelling at the sheer power of High Force, one of England’s most spectacular waterfalls, or stepping back in time at the world-famous Beamish Open Air Museum, this county is a treasure trove for explorers.
Our personal guides lead you through the heart of the Durham Dales and along the cliff-top paths of the North East. Discover a landscape where medieval history meets industrial ingenuity, featuring some of the best riverside walks, cathedral city charm, and hidden heritage sites in the North of England.
Find all our family and dog friendly adventures in County Durham:
Barnard Castle to Richmond: Family Guide to North Pennines
Tucked away in the rugged borderlands of County Durham and North Yorkshire, the area around Barnard Castle is a hidden gem for families and their four-legged companions. This is a landscape where history isn’t behind a velvet rope —it’s meant to be climbed, sniffed, and discovered. From the massive stone keep of Bowes Castle to the atmospheric “wynds” of Richmond, this corner of the Pennines offers deep historical roots with a wonderfully slow pace of life.
Whether you’re hand-trailing 12th-century walls, chasing “secret” waterfalls at Mill Force with the dog, or tucking into a world-class gastro-pub dinner while the kids enjoy a smaller taste of the local menu, this 3-day itinerary proves why Teesdale is England’s best-kept secret for a dog-friendly family adventure.
Keep Exploring
Find all our walks in the UK National Parks here. For our UK adventures it is here.
Our Lake District Escapades 