Durham
Properties and events in Durham
Before heading out for your Heritage Open Days visit, please check entries for last-minute changes.
A fascinating InSite into Durham masonic Hall
From the small front of the building to the Tardis like interior, it has to be seen as it is part of the History of Durham Freemasons for those that are intrigued to know more.
Binchester Roman Fort
Visitors can see the remains of the commanding officer's house of the fourth century fort, including the impressive bath building, which contains one of the best preserved examples of a hypocaust (underfloor heating system) in the whole of Britain.
Brancepeth Castle Tour
A guided tour of the exterior (weather permitting) and principal rooms.
Church of Our Lady of Mercy and St. Godric
Between the train and the bus stations, a landmark in the Durham City Conservation Area, St. Godric's Grade II listed church was designed by Edward Pugin. Opened in 1864 it has beautiful examples of Victorian stained glass and a fine high altar.
COTHERSTONE QUAKER MEETING HOUSE
A chance to visit an eighteenth-century meeting house in open country. Its history dates back to 1654, when George Fox reached Teesdale on foot, inspiring generations of local Quakers. Adults and children can expect a friendly welcome.
Crook Hall Gardens
Visit Crook Hall Gardens, a quiet escape in Durham City Centre, and enjoy tranquil gardens set against the backdrop of a Grade I listed medieval hall.
Durham Crematorium
A rare chance to see behind the scenes, learn about cremation and view this rich and beautifully detailed building and its grounds.
Durham Mining Museum
Come along to our little museum and chat with former coal miners in a fantastic setting filled with artefacts and history, as well as experience what it was like working down the pit in our coal seam experience.
Durham School Tour & Durham School Chapel
Sunday 8 Sept, Durham School will open its doors to the public. The Chapel will be open with volunteers answering questions and playing the organ. There will also be a tour of the school, exploring its 600-year history.
Durham Town Hall
Discover a hidden gem of a building at the heart of civic life in Durham city since the 14th century.
Escomb Saxon Church
Have a guided tour of this ancient, Anglo-Saxon Church, built in the 7th century, and learn about its history and heritage. See our art exhibition.
Kepier Hospital and Loggia
Guided tour with Martin Roberts of the Grade I and II * listed buildings and scheduled ancient monument of the medieval hospital at Kepier, once the richest in County Durham.
Old Durham Gardens
Restored 17th to early 18th century formal gardens. View the listed features of the gardens and on-going planting improvements throughout the gardens.
St Barnabas Burnmoor Church
A visit to a lovely church where you can expect a warm welcome and refreshments.
St Cuthbert's Catholic Church, Durham
Visit this simple, peaceful church to rest a while or to see the stunning window by the world-famous Irish stained glass artist Harry Clarke or works by renowned local sculptor Fenwick Lawson.
St Laurence's Church, Pittington
Visit St Laurence Church. Refreshments available.
St Mary Magdalene's Church Millfield Sunderland
St Mary Magdalene's Church Sunderland Heritage Day 2024 All are welcome to come and share in our heritage. We look forward to hopefully seeing you then!
St Mary the Virgin, Easington
A 12th century Parish Church, with evidence of Saxon origins. The building contains Medieval pieces.
St Mary's Parish Church
The church tower will be open with access to the ringing chamber and the clock chamber.
Tanfield Railway
HODs at Tanfield will feature informative guided tours of our sheds to view the current restoration projects. Visitors can also explore the hidden stories of one of the world's first railway landscapes.
The Bowes Museum
Enjoy free entry as The Bowes Museum joins in the Heritage Open Day scheme. Discover thousands of items from 500 years of human creativity. Explore our summer exhibition, watch the Silver Swan, and take part in artist led workshops and more.
The Fitzhugh Library
Visit the hidden gem of the Fitzhugh Library and its collection of photographs, books and documents concerning the County Palatine of Durham and the ecclesiastical parish of Romaldkirk. The Library contains over 70,000 items.
Thorpe Light Railway
An opportunity for visitors to learn about the history of Thorpe Light Railway, and hear about future plans.
Wheatley Hill Heritage Centre
Wheatley Hill Heritage Centre will be hosting an exhibition to the memory of miners leader and county councillor Peter Lee in view of the Peterlee '75 event held at the end of 2023 - marking 50 years since the opening of the new town.