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    Best Castles and Palaces In Durham

    We've rounded up the best castles and palaces in Durham in our quest to discover brilliant family attractions and places to visit near you. There are 9 Durham castles and palaces to pick from.Alternatively, why not explore some other sightseeing days out nearby, including museums and art galleries, or tourist attractions. Find the perfect places to go with your kids and get out on your next adventure!

    All the castles and palaces we list are rated according to the ages they are suitable for, facilities and whether they are suitable for rainy days or best when the sun is shining.

    Many of the places we list are historic or educational in nature and would be suitable for class trips or as ways to keep the learning up whilst having fun over the school holidays.

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    Outside view of Raby Castle in Darlington

    Raby Castle

    • Darlington
    • Indoor and Outdoor
    • Castles and Palaces

    Every single one of the atmospheric rooms in Raby Castle, from the magnificent Barons' Hall to the Mediaeval Kitchen gives fascinating insights into...

    Ages 4+

    15.6 mi

    Outside view of Tynemouth Priory and Castle

    Tynemouth Priory and Castle

    • Tynemouth
    • Indoor and Outdoor
    • Castles and Palaces

    Tynemouth Priory and Castle on the coast of North East England was once one of the largest fortified areas in England. Overlooking the North Sea and...

    Ages 4+

    17.8 mi

    Outside view of Barnard Castle

    Barnard Castle

    • Barnard Castle
    • Indoor and Outdoor
    • Castles and Palaces

    Barnard Castle is a charming historical visit great for both kids who like to get imaginative in the atmosphere and for those more academic types wan...

    Ages 4+

    21.2 mi

    Walking path at Belsay Hall Castle and Gardens in Newcastle upon Tyne

    Belsay Hall Castle and Gardens

    • Newcastle upon Tyne
    • Indoor and Outdoor
    • Castles and Palaces

    Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens is like a great big adventure playground. Bring along the kids to explore a fine medieval castle, a Greek Revival vil...

    Ages 4+

    24.9 mi

    Outside view of Richmond Castle

    Richmond Castle

    • Richmond
    • Outdoor
    • Tourist Attractions

    Richmond Castle was originally built to subdue the unruly North of England and is one of the greatest Norman fortresses in Britain, great for visitin...

    All Ages

    26.7 mi

    Outside view of Bolton Castle in Leyburn

    Bolton Castle

    • Leyburn
    • Indoor and Outdoor
    • Tourist Attractions

    Bolton Castle is superb medieval fortress with a packed programme of daily events and activities indoors and out, great for a family day trip! Family...

    All Ages

    34.8 mi

    Kids on broomsticks at Alnwick Castle

    Alnwick Castle

    • Alnwick
    • Indoor and Outdoor
    • Tourist Attractions

    Medieval knights, dragons, dressing up AND Harry Potter?! Alnwick Castle may very well be heaven on earth. The castle has a fantastically rich histor...

    Ages 4+

    44.4 mi

    Aerial view of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal in Ripon

    Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal

    • Ripon
    • Indoor and Outdoor
    • Parks and Playgrounds

    An amazing historical World Heritage Site near Ripon, Fountains Abbey provides picturesque wide open spaces, family guided tours, school holiday acti...

    All Ages

    46.2 mi

    Ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle by sea in Alnwick

    Dunstanburgh Castle

    • Alnwick
    • Outdoor
    • Castles and Palaces

    Dunstanburgh Castle This iconic castle ruin was once upon a time one of the largest and most grandiose forts in Northern England, still even now thor...

    Ages 4+

    49.2 mi

    More Fun Places to Visit in Durham

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