What to do and see in County Durham, England: The Best Visitor Centers

Low Barns is a valuable wetland reserve and one of County Durham’s most important wildlife sites, located adjacent to the River Wear. The reserve has become important for wildlife due to the wide range of habitats including wet woodland, grassland, open water and river side, which are home to many different types of birds, mammals, plants and insects. However, Low Barns has not always been a haven for local wildlife. Originally farmland, the site underwent sand and gravel extraction until 1964 when the area was given to Durham Wildlife Trust and restored as a nature reserve. In 2003 a redundant sewage treatment works on the site was replaced with a new reed bed habitat and a boardwalk which enabled public access with minimal disturbance to wildlife. The site’s flat terrain and large accessible bird hides make it an ideal place to visit for everyone. For upcoming events check our website. Parking is free for DWT members and £2.50 for non-members.

Acres of accessible countryside, miles of quiet rural roads, an abundance of wildlife and one of the best places in the UK to enjoy the night sky are just some of the reasons why you should make the North Pennines AONB a place to discover and explore. Situated amidst stunning woodland in Teesdale, next to Low and High Force waterfalls, and surrounded by rolling fields boasting some of the best hay meadows in England, Bowlees Visitor Centre has all you need to make your visit to the North Pennines a memorable one. Outdoor enthusiasts can make the most of the vast expanse of unspoilt land and sky by exploring on foot or wheels, or by simply sitting back and soaking up the scenery. We have booklets for self-guided walks, bike rides and nature-spotting, so you can explore at your leisure. At Bowlees Visitor Centre, children can get to grips with nature through a range of hands-on events - inside and out - that focus on learning, living and most importantly, laughing.

In line with government and Public Health England advice regarding the Covid-19 and following the current guidelines set by Durham University, the Visitor Centre is now closed until further notice. Stay in touch on Twitter or Facebook. Housed in a refurbished 19th century almshouse, Durham's World Heritage Site Visitor Centre is a free facility open seven days a week with staff available to provide advice and information about Durham and its heritage. The Visitor Centre provides visitors with an overview of the World Heritage Site, including information about what it means to be a World Heritage Site, what makes Durham significant, and what there is to see and do in Durham.

We are a visitor and business development centre welcoming visitors to Weardale. We're a great starting point for exploring the area. Our Gift Shop is stuffed full of interesting, quirky and original items and our "Durham Dales Kitchen" serves an extensive range of hearty food. Our beautiful gardens and grounds are great places to eat or just sit and enjoy Wonderful Weardale! We're developing activities for local people with a programme of evening workshops and events. All are welcome.