County Durham’s Parks and Countryside
Outdoor adventure awaits you at every one of our parks, nature reserves, picnic areas and railway paths!
Family fun is the order of the day at our popular park. Let your imagination run wild as you shout for Rapunzel at our gothic tower, hunt for the Gruffalo in our woodland, and greet our dragon– if you dare! Children can also enjoy our play area and pick up free trails to keep them busy as they explore the park.
Hardwick is an 18th century historic parkland that boasts fantastic views. Enjoy the natural beauty of 
the lake, woodland, and wildlife before calling into our café which offers a wonderful section of home-made soups, sandwiches, scones, pies, and cakes! There is an on-site gift shop where you can pick up something special to remember your visit and a range of exciting events and workshops to enjoy through the year.
Visit www.durham.gov.uk/hardwickpark for further information.
Step into our exciting, augmented reality world with the Love Exploring app!
There’s a T-Rex in our parks! He’s big and bold and likes meat, but don’t worry he’s only augmented reality! Download the love exploring app for free to find him and his dino friends on your walk around Hardwick Park. You can also try our Roman games at Hardwick Park which include shaping a roman pot, solving a bronze making puzzle, and constructing iron tools all through your mobile phone!
With other seasonal themes including woodland fairies, space, mega minibeasts, and our Halloween dance trail, downloading Love Exploring is a must for any young adventurer!
Wider Countryside Sites to Explore
Did you know there are a whole range of nature reserves and picnic areas to visit around the county?These are fantastic places to walk, watch wildlife, enjoy a picnic, and take in the fresh air. Stroll across the moorland at Waldridge Fell, go butterfly spotting along the coast at Blackhall Rocks, explore the history of Causey Arch, or create your own adventures at Pow Hill Country Park.
If you love running and cycling our railway paths are perfect! These accessible, linear routes act as wildlife corridors and provide beautiful views across the countryside.
Find your next day out at: www.durham.gov.uk/countryside.