What’s On Nearby
Family Fun Near Gardenside Lodge
Here are some wonderful activities and places we recommend for families staying with us:
Activities & Attractions
Locomotion – The National Railway Museum Shildon | 10 minutes’ drive
Free admission and absolutely brilliant for train-loving children (and adults!)! Home to iconic locomotives including Stephenson’s Rocket, there are interactive displays, a play area, and you can even climb aboard some of the trains. The outdoor area is great for letting little ones burn off energy, and there’s a lovely café for refreshments.
August 2026
Kynren – An Epic Tale of England Bishop Auckland | Saturday nights (and selected Fridays) until 12 September Britain’s award-winning open-air theatre spectacular returns for its summer season. Watch 2,000 years of English history come to life through an epic cast of hundreds, live animals, pyrotechnics and dazzling special effects, set against the stunning backdrop of Auckland Castle.
September 2026
Locomotion Heritage Open Days Locomotion, Shildon | 12–13 September Guided walks exploring Shildon’s historic railway buildings and the working lives of the Stockton & Darlington Railway.
S&DR Anniversary Weekend Locomotion, Shildon | 26–27 September Marking what came next after 1825, exploring Shildon’s role as the world’s first railway town, plus a special presentation on railways and graffiti by Lewis Hobson.
October 2026
SMRC Autumn Exhibition Locomotion, Shildon | 3–4 October Model railway layouts in a range of gauges, presented by Shildon Model Railway Club and guest exhibitors.
Celebrate Science Locomotion, Shildon | 27–29 October A hands-on science event for families, delivered in partnership with Durham University.
Halloween 🎃
Pyromusical – A Halloween Weekend Spectacular Bishop Auckland | Saturday 1 November The North East’s biggest pyromusical fireworks display returns for its seventh year, set against the dramatic backdrop of Auckland Palace. Expect a 25-minute display choreographed to a spooky-spirited soundtrack, plus a pumpkin-lit walkway trail, one of the most atmospheric family nights out of the autumn.
Twilight Trains Locomotion, Shildon | 31 October – 1 November A magical family event celebrating lights and lanterns after dark, a great alternative for half term, and easy to combine with Kynren’s fireworks the same weekend.
November 2026
AGLOW Auckland Palace, Bishop Auckland | From late November (dates to be confirmed for 2026) One of the largest Christmas light installations in the country returns, a 1.5 mile illuminated trail through the Palace grounds, featuring one of the tallest Christmas trees in the UK at over 30 metres high.
Christmas at Auckland Palace , Bishop Auckland | 21 November – 31 December (closed Mondays & Tuesdays, excluding Christmas Day) Twelve rooms of the historic Palace transformed with festive splendour, from the golden Long Dining Room to the icy-white Ante Room. Entry also includes access to the magnificent 18th-century Neapolitan Nativity, on display in the Faith Museum.
December 2026 — Festive Season
Christmas at Auckland Palace, Bishop Auckland | Until 31 December, don’t miss the intricately carved 18th-century Nativity scene, featuring 421 individual figures.
AGLOW Light Trail Auckland Palace, Bishop Auckland The festive light trail continues through December perfect for a magical family evening out.
Third Age Rocks! Music Concert Bishop Auckland Town Hall | Tuesday 15 December A festive music concert to get you in the Christmas spirit.
Santa Express A festive train experience for younger visitors.
Hamsterley Forest Near Bishop Auckland | 15 minutes’ drive. Woodland Walks & Stargazing & Danny Harts Descend Bike Park
Perfect for active families! This beautiful forest offers walking and cycling trails for all abilities, a fantastic adventure playground, and Go Ape for older children seeking thrills. Pack a picnic, hire bikes, or simply enjoy exploring the woodland paths. It’s wonderful in every season. By day, it’s perfect for a crisp winter walk among towering pines; by night, it transforms into a stunning stargazing spot thanks to its Dark Sky Discovery Site status.
Perfect for active families! This beautiful forest offers walking and cycling trails for all abilities, a fantastic adventure playground, and Go Ape for older children seeking thrills. Pack a picnic, hire bikes, or simply enjoy exploring the woodland paths. It’s wonderful in every season.
Diggerland Langley Park | 25 minutes’ drive
An absolute hit with children who love diggers and construction vehicles! They can actually drive and operate real diggers (scaled for safety), go on construction-themed rides, and get hands-on with amazing machinery. It’s unique, exciting, and creates brilliant memories.
Raby Castle Staindrop | 20 minutes’ drive
A fairytale medieval castle with beautiful gardens and a deer park – children love spotting the herds of deer! The castle itself is fascinating with its historic rooms and treasures, while the grounds offer plenty of space to explore. Regular family events and activities during school holidays too.
Beamish- The living Museum of the North
Beamish, County Durham | Approximately 40 minutes’ drive
We can’t recommend Beamish highly enough! This isn’t your typical museum – it’s a magical step back in time where history really comes alive.
Spread across 300 acres of beautiful countryside, Beamish recreates life in North East England across different eras. You’ll wander through an authentic 1900s town complete with sweet shops, a working pub, and costumed characters going about their daily business. Hop on a vintage tram or steam train, explore a 1940s farm, visit a Georgian country estate, and step inside a fascinating 1950s town.
What makes Beamish really special is how interactive it is – you can chat with the “residents,” sample traditional sweets, watch craftspeople at work, and even enjoy fish and chips cooked the old-fashioned way. The staff are wonderfully knowledgeable and bring each period to life with warmth and humour.
A personal connection: We’re particularly proud that Kenny, one of your hosts here at Gardenside Lodge, built some of the features you’ll see at Beamish. It makes visiting even more special and we love sharing this piece of local heritage with our guests!
It’s genuinely a place for all ages , children love the hands-on experiences, while adults enjoy the nostalgic details and authentic atmosphere. Allow a full day to explore properly, there’s so much to see and do, and you’ll want to savour every moment.
Top tip: Unlimited return visits are included with your ticket for 12 months, so you can come back and explore different seasons!
Ushaw Historic House, Chapel & Gardens– Durham | Approximately 20 minutes’ drive
Prepare to be amazed by one of the North East’s best-kept secrets! Ushaw is an absolute gem – a stunning Grade I listed Gothic Revival building that will take your breath away.
Originally founded as a Catholic seminary in 1808, Ushaw boasts magnificent architecture, including two spectacular chapels that rival many cathedrals. St Cuthbert’s Chapel is particularly breathtaking with its soaring vaulted ceilings, intricate stained glass windows, and ornate decorations. The craftsmanship is truly exceptional, and the peaceful atmosphere is wonderfully uplifting.
Beyond the chapels, you can explore the historic house with its grand rooms, fascinating library filled with rare books and manuscripts, and beautiful gardens perfect for a leisurely stroll. The knowledgeable guides are passionate about sharing Ushaw’s rich history and hidden stories.
Whether you’re interested in architecture, history, or simply enjoy discovering beautiful places, Ushaw offers a truly special experience. The site also hosts regular exhibitions, concerts, and events throughout the year, so there’s often something new to discover.
It’s a peaceful, inspiring place that feels worlds away from the everyday – perfect for a reflective afternoon during your stay with us.
Stargazing in the Durham Dales( From 6th October 2025)
Nestled beside Grassholme Reservoir, this purpose-built observatory offers unforgettable views of the night sky in one of England’s darkest locations. From guided telescope sessions to family-friendly astronomy talks, it’s a brilliant way to experience the magic of the cosmos—just 30 minutes from Gardenside Lodge.
High Force Waterfall Teesdale | 35 minutes’ drive
England’s most powerful waterfall is truly spectacular and well worth the short drive. An easy walk suitable for most ages leads to this dramatic natural wonder. The roar of the water and the stunning scenery make it an unforgettable experience. Lovely woodland walks nearby too.
Places to Eat
The Dales Centre Café Stanhope | 15 minutes’ drive
Wonderfully family-friendly with a relaxed atmosphere and good honest food. Great value, generous portions, and they’re really welcoming to children. The attached craft centre and small museum are fun to browse after your meal.
Broom Mill Farm Shop Near Bishop Auckland | 15 minutes’ drive
Fabulous farm shop with a lovely café serving homemade cakes and treats. Children love seeing the animals, and there’s a small play area. Perfect for morning coffee and cake or afternoon tea.
The Copper Mine – Crook | 15 minutes’ drive
One of our favourites! The Copper Mine is a stylish, independent restaurant just up the road in Crook. It’s known for generous portions, beautifully presented dishes, and a menu that mixes pub classics with a creative twist. Whether you fancy fillet steak, Moroccan chicken, or something seasonal, the food’s always spot on and the team are lovely too. It’s always advisable to pre-book as they get really busy!
Knead A Slice
Bishop Auckland Town Centre | 10 minutes’ drive
A modern, family-friendly pizza restaurant that’s become a local favourite! Serves delicious Neapolitan-style pizzas with creative toppings, plus brilliant breakfasts and brunches. Generous portions, vegan and gluten-free options available, and they welcome dogs too. The atmosphere is relaxed and fun – you can order via QR code at your table. Great cocktails and mocktails for the grown-ups, and reasonable prices make this a winner with families.
Fifteas Vintage Tea Room
Bishop Auckland Market Place | 10 minutes’ drive
Step back in time to the 1950s in this absolutely charming vintage tea room! The décor is delightful with period touches everywhere, and staff even dress in 1950s style. Perfect for families, they serve fantastic homemade food from full English breakfasts to scrumptious cakes, scones, and light lunches. Excellent gluten-free options and very accommodating with dietary requirements. Sunday afternoons feature live music! Dog-friendly too. It’s quirky, nostalgic, and the food is genuinely delicious – don’t miss the afternoon tea!
