Darlington

Darlington is a market town in the Borough of Darlington, County Durham, England. It lies on the River Skerne, 13 miles west of Middlesbrough and 17 miles south of Durham. Darlington had a population of 107,800 at the 2021 Census, making it a "large town" and one of the largest settlements in North East England. Wikipedia.

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Top destinations in Darlington

1. Walworth

Top attractions in Darlington

1. Raby Castle, Park and Gardens

4.6

(3649)

Castle

Sights & Landmarks

Imposing medieval castle with art treasures and tapestries in a scenic deer park setting.

Slide 1 of 8

I went here for the first time today. On entry there was a market with the gardens and access to the Castle. The Castle is the main event in my opinion. The rooms are stunningly beautiful and well preserved. I would go again to take in all the sights and look for new things to catch my eye. There is parking and the person at the entrance took card payments for entry.

Random U — Google review

Went on a beautiful sunny day and was blown away by the gorgeous walled gardens. Lots of butterflies which our daughter enjoyed photographing. We went on a guided tour round the castle and Daphne was very informative and kept some of the "chatty" and wandering guests from the party in line with her professional competence 🤣. After the castle tour we walked through the deer park and captured some wonderful video footage of several deers running up the embankment and crossing the path right in front of us. Lovely experience for both us and our 15 year old. Very stylish and bright/airy cafe where we found something to eat quite easily for us adults, but if you are slightly particular with your foods and not a child it did prove a little more difficult. You can't go wrong with jacket potatoes but unfortunately our daughter isn't a fan. Was looking for something safe like macaroni cheese and garlic bread but we found something to suit in the end. Definitely worth the money. Spent 3+ hours here. Easy to find and parking great. Every aspect of this place was tidy and well maintained. One suggestion, the toilets separate from the cafe (never looked in the cafe toilets) could do with a sanitary dispenser.

Nikki C — Google review

Beautiful castle and gardens – well worth a visit! Stunning historic building, peaceful grounds, and a lovely walled garden. Great for families, especially with the deer park and the amazing kids’ play area (Plotters’ Forest). Staff are friendly and everything is well maintained. A perfect day out in the countryside!

Adrian M — Google review

What a great family place to visit. Historic castle with loads of insight into its history. Deer park to walk around with plenty of opportunities to see the deer. Lovely gardens to enjoy at your leasure and new well appointed cafe. Definitely worth a visit if you get the chance.

Simon W — Google review

With the right weather you can spend a long day there. A good combination of things for adults and children. The gardens alone are worth the visit. You can explore castle grounds & deer park at your leisure but I'd recommend the guided tours. Separate tours of castle & garden + we enjoyed a separate talk regarding the Raby estate & the development of the railways. Top notch facilities, a lot of effort & money has been spent making an excellent tourist attraction.

Richard V — Google review

We spent an absolutely amazing morning walking around the castle. Every room waited to be discovered with a member of staff and the knowledge they had waiting to pass on. It was an amazing trip back in history and very well maintained with staff with their wealth of knowledge, very friendly and welcoming. We didn't walk as much of the park as we would've liked, but finished the visit off with a yummy lunch. We will definitely visit again.

Wendy L — Google review

Great day out. The castle itself was really interesting, loads to see inside with some really knowledgeable staff. Gardens and grounds are spectacular, especially the deer park. Nice cafes and shop as well

Robert H — Google review

A truly amazing day out.. Beautifully presented the gardens are so accessible..the castle is stunning inside with friendly informative volunteers to guide your visit . 2 good cafés on site both are dog friendly 👌. I will visit again for sure 😍

Wendy B — Google review

2. Walworth Birds of Prey

4.7

(145)

Nature & Parks

Nature & Wildlife Areas

Slide 1 of 8

Can’t recommend this place highly enough, set in the grounds of a beautiful castle (with tea-room), the birds are magnificent & bettered only by the staff. It’s a family run venture and you can see that the birds are extremely well cared for as they all appeared very comfortable and settled with genuine concern being showed for the welfare of all the birds. All this and it’s only around than a tenner for an adult and child which lets you see two shows as well as -weather permitting- helping to fly the birds. Well worth a visit and a very pleasurable afternoon... 👍

Michael N — Google review

Had a mooch around the birds of Prey centre and got to see some of them real close up (the Buzzard glanced passed my head and gave me a new hair cut). Saw a display and a couple of exercises of the birds, letting them stretch their wings. I took part in the display by lying on the ground and letting an owl swoop past us all inches away. The Peregrine falcon was amazing, swiftly diving in to catch its prey, between people a foot away from each other; proving its agility. We'll worth with it.

Glenn H — Google review

Spent a few hours here looking at and reading about some of these amazing birds. We had a demonstration of some in action and very close up literally at arms length! There is also a feeding area for the local natural bird life which was also worth seeing

John H — Google review

Really wonderful day out! Beautiful birds and incredibly knowledgeable and friendly staff. We'll definitely be back again soon!

Chris B — Google review

Lovely few hours looking at birds, keeping the kids entertained with a quiz and a nature trail and fantastic falconry display with Tori who was full of enthusiasm keeping everyone amused. Only downside all amenities were in the Castle Hotel nearby and the coffee and service wasn't upto standard.

Claire N — Google review

Really good afternoon out. Brilliant displays. Definitely plan to visit again.

Martin C — Google review

Brilliant centre, birds were a amazing and the display was entertaining. Owners were very friendly and made the experience enjoyable

Stephen C — Google review

Great value for money. Fun presentations, excellent interaction with little kids and not so little kids!

Chris I — Google review

3. Darlington Hippodrome

4.7

(2549)

Performing arts theater

Concerts & Shows

Theatre from 1907, hosting plays, opera, comedy, music, dance and pantomime, local and touring.

Slide 1 of 8

Horrible histories Egypt was incredible. What an experience. My four year really enjoyed it. The second half in 3d was a fun surprise, a few little jumps that my son found funny. The three actors were spectacular and performed wonderfully. All credit to them for keeping a four yr old engaged for nearly 2 hours. The theatre is well kept, spacious, comfy seats. Excellent all round

Jonathan D — Google review

Went to watch Red Hot and Ready, bars were very busy downstairs but all the staff were real friendly and working as fast as they could, our seats were in the upper circle, we could see most of the show, all in all very good

Daniel J — Google review

Went to see Susie Dent, parking was close by, easy entry and fast, seats located straight away with little help. Half time went for usual cigarette/toilet/bar, they need a bin outside that's my only gripe, the service was fast and cost of drinks/snacks same as anywhere else. Brilliant show, if you get a chance to see Susie DO! Interesting and funny.

Janine — Google review

Great theatre in Darlington. Went to see Spitfire Girls which was very good. The theatre has recently been refurbished (used to be the Civic) and is very nice.

Claire B — Google review

Loads of parking nearby, really friendly and efficient staff. We sat in the Stalls, L15 & L16 and the view was perfect 👌🏻 I don't think anyone will have a poor view from any seat in the Stalls though as it is slightly sloped. Seats are quite small and it's snug once you're in..but not uncomfortable 🙂

Erica C — Google review

Beautiful venue. We were up in the gods yet the sound was really good and so was the view. Great night

Pete W — Google review

We visited to see Q the Music, a James Bond music themed orchestra. Great sounds and unlimited views made it a wonderful occasion. Will go again.

Paul W — Google review

Went to tonight to see Heather's the musical. Slight issue with the tickets. They hadn't come through. However, when I emailed the venue this morning, they issued the tickets immediately via email, so the customer service was super quick! Parking was easy and signposted. The venue is lovely from the outside, and it looks very modern. Inside is very cosy and just the right size for smaller acts / performances to make it lovely and intimate! Prices weren't sky high, too. They even served coffee inside. They accepted both cash and card payments which is rare!! Staff are very friendly and helpful and plenty of toilet facilities on site. During the interval we were allowed outside.

Claire — Google review

4. Hopetown Darlington

4.6

(1138)

Museum

History Museums

Museum of local rail history in restored 19th-century railway buildings, with antique steam engines.

Slide 1 of 8

Hopetown brings to you a captivating fusion of interactive railway heritage and family friendly fun. Quite attractive to the playful and curious minds. My kids and I had a fun filled day throughout our visit.

Tamunotonye T — Google review

Hopetown in Darlington is a fantastic place to explore railway heritage 🚂✨. With the historic North Road Station Museum, the immersive Experiment! ride, and the Carriage Works Exhibition Hall, it beautifully blends the town’s industrial past with creativity and modern exhibitions. A must-visit for anyone interested in history, trains, or just a unique day out! 🌟

Babs B — Google review

We're not the biggest train fans but I was pleasantly surprised by how interesting and interactive this place was. It's all well maintained, with plenty to see and do for all ages. Good cafe too.

Neil H — Google review

Another North East free train museum! Fantastic place to visit if you have any interest in stream trains, travel or history. Lots to see and do, great cafe which was understandably busy due to great tasting food. Great for school trips with volunteers on hand to assist with displays etc, allocated 'classrooms' to store belongings and have meals. Working trains to watch, static trains to get on the footplate and lots of goodies in the gift shop. We did 3 hours but could easily have done more if not travelling home. Will visit again

Chris L — Google review

A brilliant railway museum, charting the history of the Stockton & Darlington Railway. Housed in genuine former railway buildings, it has full sized Darlington built steam and diesel locomotives, carriages and wagons. There is a large children's play area, and an onsite restaurant. Experiment states it is a travel through time experience, and costs extra. I didn't try it on my visit. Parking is pay and display, and is about a 3 minute walk from Hopetown. The parking is next to Skerne Bridge. I really enjoyed my visit, which coincided with the SDR200 celebrations, and Titans of Steam. It would be a great place to visit regardless of this.

David F — Google review

This is a fantastic railway museum experience for both adults and the kids. It's got some very interesting displays and interactive exhibits. All very clean and looked after. The staff are very friendly. We had coffees at the cafe and they were really nice. I would 100 percent recommend a visit to this place.

David H — Google review

We visited on the final day of seeing a great steam engine and stand on its footplate. Excellent explanations by an enthusiast. There are so many things to see and a lot of it is interactive. Particularly impressed by an immersive experience ‘Experiment!’ Where your seating moves while you’re surrounded by film screens to simulate travelling on the train tracks or flying over them. There’s a small charge for that but otherwise entry is free. Recommended.

Francis A — Google review

It's been ages since we visited, I don't think it was even named 'Hopetown'. When we visited last, only one building was open. I was impressed with the amount of buildings open this time, and the quality of the exhibits. There were a range of static and interactive displays, many of which I found to be quite unique and I hadn't seen them at other museums. When we visited, there was a community dog event taking place which really added to the atmosphere. There were loads of stalls and activities for the dogs to enjoy. The cafe and kiosk were lovely, everything was very clean and the coffee was tasty. This year is likely to be very packed with events commemorating the opening of the Stockton to Darlington railway in 1825. My only negative would be the parking wasn't terribly well signposted, and we ended up parking in the street nearby. Otherwise, a very enjoyable visit and recommended if you are in the area.

Martin ( — Google review

5. Darlington

4.2

(194)

Transit station

Sights & Landmarks

Slide 1 of 8

Darlington is a market town in the Borough of Darlington, County Durham, England. It lies on the River Skerne, 15 miles (24 km) west of Middlesbrough and 20 miles (32 km) south of Durham. Darlington had a population of 107,800 at the 2021 Census, making it a "large town" and one of the largest settlements in North East England. The town is linked to London, Leeds, Newcastle and Edinburgh by the East Coast Main Line and the A1. Darlington is a beautiful, historic borough right in the heart of the North East. As a shopping destination, Darlington is second to none. We have a thriving independent business scene, as recognised when the town centre was awarded with the title of one of top independent high streets in the UK in 2023. From luxury fashion to handmade homewares, and artisan bakeries to jewellery makers, we have it all! There's also a fantastic array of high street names and a department store to browse too. When the lights go down, catch a show at the wonderful Darlington Hippodrome or watch a gig at The Forum. See the latest film at Vue or the Odeon cinema and there’s also plenty of amazing restaurants, bars and clubs in the town centre. Try one of our award-winning cocktail or real ale bars in which you’ll find that great north eastern welcome. There’s also plenty of accommodation to choose from which suit a range of tastes and budgets. From 5-star golf resorts and spas to cosy bed and breakfasts. The area is justifiably proud of its world famous rail heritage, so no trip would be complete without a visit to the newly redeveloped railway museum, Hopetown. With support from National Lottery funding, the museum boasts new purpose-built and heritage buildings, new exhibitions, virtual 4D reality experiences and a playground.

En L — Google review

Stations are Always Bleak 'n Cold, where one can feel Alone & Vulnerable. Everyone Travelling To & Fro with a Purpose Personally Assailable. Darlington Station is under Refurbishment with' Stephenson's 'Rocket' nowhere to be Seen. YORK now has the Priveldge of Displaying that Mighty Machine. Rail Traffic Rarely 'Steams' In 'n Out as Modern Equipment Snakes into View. There is a Veritable Tinge of Excitement as Rolling Stock Snakes Through. Efficient Staff Guide Passengers, Adhereing to Safety & Security Rules & Restrictions. A Temporary Information Booth in the Concourse seems a Cold seat for Staff Convictions. Majestic Arches Span the Station Roof for over 150 years. Co. Durham: The Centre of So Much History created by Our Peers!

Graeme H — Google review

I don't think it fully deserves a whole, 4 out of 5 but since it is my home town's railway station I do have a soft spot for this building.

Mister D — Google review

Fairly small station with 4-5 platforms. Easy to find yoi train, plenty of coffee places etc

Paulius S — Google review

Mainline station on east coast and station is clean, tidy with helpful staff. Lots of food, drink facilities along with paper / book sales outlets. Parking is however limited and expensive.

Dave S — Google review

Not enough seating. All the shops are outside the paid area.

Paul P — Google review

A decent train station that does its job. I wouldn’t recommend trainspotting here as most trains worth seeing go down the avoider line.

Lewis K — Google review

A very clean and well maintained station. Deserving of the upcoming upgrades to the building and trackwork. Friendly and informative station staff.

Robert N — Google review

6. South Park

4.6

(2734)

Park

Nature & Parks

Council-run park with a cafe, an aviary housing parrots, sports facilities & a calendar of events.

Slide 1 of 8

Perfect quiet place when kids are in school. Divided into 2 halves, playing fields and formal gardens. Lots of benches to sit and a café on site.

Joan B — Google review

This is a really lovely spacious park. A friend who lives locally showed it to us otherwise we wouldn't have known about it. There are tree lined paths and green open spaces and a play area for toddlers and slightly older kids. There is a lovely lake with fountain and wild flowers growing. There is also an area for playing tennis etc Great for family days out, joggers, picnics, dog walks and so much more. My toddler loved it there too as it was a safe space for him to run around and enjoy the activities for his age. We will definitely come back here next time we're in the area. Recommend.

Lion Q — Google review

Not a bad park... the play area could be better.

Keith B — Google review

Checked this park out for the first time today and it's a really quiet, peaceful park. There's a beautiful pond. A nice looking cafe and an aviary. In the aviary there was an African grey bird that was really curious of us and seemed to enjoy the attention. There was some parakeets that are also quite friendly. Lastly there was an enclosure with some chickens, ducks and a male golden pheasant! Overall we really enjoyed a relaxing stroll around the park. I would recommend it!

L R — Google review

First visit here. It is gorgeous. FREE parking in Parkside, the avenue that runs through the park. Two sides of the park, the traditional side with lake, bandstand, and Café and then the open field area. The colours of the flowers at the entrance were so bright. I'm definitely coming back with a book to just sit and relax.

Kev B — Google review

Me and my son feed the wild life every morning at dawn it costs a fortune for all difrent grain seeds for our furry friends we love to spend time with them

Malcolm W — Google review

A wonderful place with a very beautiful garden and a magnificent lake where you can feed the ducks. It is a pity that at night there is no lighting at all and the walk will not be comfortable and safe.

Tatiana D — Google review

Rare beautiful park in Darlington with everything which makes it a perfect picnic spot. It has a playground, pond, kids play zone, restaurant, sitting arrangements, restrooms, large trees. There is also a small stream of river flowing along the edge of the park. Very calm and soothing atmosphere always at this park.

Anoop M — Google review

Other notable attractions

Market Hall

Market

Sights & Landmarks

Darlington

Sights & Landmarks

Historic Sites

Thornton Hall Gardens

Garden

Nature & Parks

Joseph Pease Statue

Historical landmark

Sights & Landmarks

St Cuthbert's Church

Church

Sights & Landmarks

Darlington

Nature & Parks

Parks

Grassy meadow in a tranquil riverside setting for picnics & other leisure pursuits.

The Now & Then Shop

Permanently Closed

Gift shop

Shopping

Buzz Bingo Darlington

Bingo hall

Casinos & Gambling

Large chain bingo centre with electronic gaming and slot machines, plus regular live entertainment.

Eastbourne Sports Complex

Sports complex

Fun & Games

The Hullabaloo

Theater company

Concerts & Shows

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Monthly temperature highs and lows in Darlington

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Plan on the go with our free travel app

With Wanderlog's mobile travel planner on Android and iOS, access and edit your trips wherever you go — even while offline.

Access and edit your trips wherever you go — even without a connection.

4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play

Darlington

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