DCC County Durham Summer Guide 2018

Summer Guide

#d

ay s o f summer

2018

County Durham

Summer Guide

2018

Welcome to your

Summer’s here!

The school holidays, warmer weather and longer days offer the ideal opportunity to spend time with the family.

And our summer guide provides lots of ideas and suggestions for events, activities and venues that will provide the perfect day out.

Remember to share your photos of family fun days out in County Durham using the hashtag #daysofsummer and follow us on social media for even more ideas of ways to spend your summer days.

Check out the Summer Guide online at www.durham.gov.uk/summer Queries about this magazine? Call 03000 268 059 or email: durhamcountynews@durham.gov.uk

Parks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8 Walking and running.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Countryside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Coast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Theatre and cinema. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-14 Accessible activities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Heritage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-21 Libraries.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 NEW School holiday fun guide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23-26 Cycling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Swimming. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Leisure centres.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29-37 What’s on.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-47

How to enter our competitions

Contact information www.durham.gov.uk If you need to phone us call:

Customer Services

Inside...

Enter online at www.durham.gov.uk/summer

03000 26 0000

8.30am-5pm (Monday-Thursday), 8.30am-4.30pm (Friday). Out of hours emergency service available.

For social care and independent living enquiries or adult and children’s welfare issues:

Social Care Direct/Children’s First Contact Service 03000 26 79 79 NHS: if you need medical help fast, but it isn’t a 999 emergency

111

/durhamcouncil @DurhamCouncil /company/durham-county-council /user/DurhamCouncil /durham_county_council

Or write the answer, along with your name, address, telephone number and email on a piece of paper. Pop your entries into one envelope (don’t forget the stamp) and post to Durham County News, Durham County Council, County Hall DH1 5UF, or drop them into reception at any of our access points.

Entry closes on Wednesday 18 July.

The following symbols are used in this guide: Disabled access Baby changing facilities Tearoom/café Dogs allowed

Information in this guide was correct at the time of going to press, but we do advise you to check with the venue before you visit. Durham County Council does not endorse the third party advertisers in this brochure.

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Riverside Park PA R K S

Chester-le-Street

A great day for all the family, with a play area, splash pad and relaxing walks around the gardens and along the River Wear.

A splashing time

Funfair

From Monday 2 July until Sunday 9 September 10am-6pm – every weekend plus Monday to Sunday during the summer holidays.

The park’s free splash pad offers fun for kids from toddlers to early teens.

Wednesday 8 to Saturday 18 August 1pm-8pm All the fun of the fair with a variety of rides and attractions.

Friday Fun Every Friday from 12 July until 31 August 12noon-3pm 16yrs and under, free.

Activities including wall-climbing, story day, multi-sports and the Bike 360 display team.

Fake Festival Saturday 4 August 12noon-11.15pm, £15-£27.50, book via www.fakefestivals.co.uk Are you ready to rock? This music event includes tributes to Bon Jovi, Foo Fighters and The Rolling Stones as well as local bands.

Parkrun Every Saturday 9am Experienced and novice runners are invited to join in. Meet at the kiosk.

For more information visit www.parkrun.org.uk/riverside

Opening times and charges: Hours: Open 24 hours.

Facilities: Park Centre (until 30 September) open 10am-4pm weekdays, 10am-7pm weekends. Toilets open 8am-6.30pm weekdays, 8am-7pm weekends.

Cost: Entry free, parking charges apply.

Riverside Park, near Durham County Cricket Club DH3 3SJ. 03000 266 447 www.durham.gov.uk/riversidepark

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PA R K S

Hardwick Park This historic parkland offers everything from beautiful scenery to family events.

Take a break in the Tower Café or learn about the park’s history in the Visitor Centre. To book activities call 03000 262 899.

Toddler tales and trails: The Very Greedy Bee Wednesday 11 and Saturday 14 July 10am-11.30am, 1pm-2.30pm 2-5yrs, £4 per child, booking required.

Fun park trails and craft activities.

Every Sunday from 20 July until 2 September 1pm-3pm Free Join the rangers for fun environmental activities including pond-dipping, bug hunts and making clay creatures.

Mud pie Monday

Team Invincible

Monday 23 July 11am-3pm £3 per child.

Old clothes are a must for these fun and messy mud piemaking sessions in the park’s woodland kitchen.

Wednesday 15 August 10am-11.30am and 1pm-2.30pm £6 per child, booking required.

Dress as your favourite superhero and join Team Invincible! Take part in themed outdoor games, crafts and exciting challenges to defeat the villains and save the world.

National Play Day

Monday 16 July – pre-school session for children aged 2-5yrs.

Wednesday 1 August 11am-3pm Free Stories, games and woodland play celebrating all things fun.

Gruffalo-inspired trail Friday 20 July to Sunday 2 September £2 per booklet (pencil included) from the gift shop during opening hours.

Follow the trail to celebrate the return of the willow Gruffalo.

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Ranger Fun

Children must be accompanied by an adult during all park activities.

PA R K S Gruffalo Woodland Adventures Friday 27 July 11am-3pm Join us in the woodland to try Gruffalo themed crafts and activities. £3 per child. No booking required.

New improved party packages

New for 2018

Looking for something different for your child’s next birthday party?

Check out our improved party activities.

From wizarding to super sleuthing, learning wilderness survival skills or becoming a superhero for the day – there’s something for everyone.

Visit the webpage or email outdoorparties@durham.gov.uk

Summer Camp Monday 6 August to Friday 10 August 10am-3pm £12.50 per child a day, advanced booking required.

Summer camp is a great opportunity for children to get stuck into a range of different experiences and learn lots of new skills within the beautiful landscape of Hardwick Park. Children will need to bring a packed lunch and wear suitable clothing for outdoor fun. Please contact the parks and countryside education officer for further information on 03000 262 845 or outdoorlearning@durham.gov.uk

Opening times and charges: Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7.30am-8pm.

Facilities: Café, gift shop and exhibition space open 10am4pm. Toilets open 7.30am-8pm.

Cost: Entry free, parking charges apply.

Hardwick Park, near Sedgefield TS21 2DN. 03000 262 899 www.durham.gov.uk/hardwickpark hardwickpark@durham.gov.uk

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PA R K S

Wharton Park Explore this revamped Durham City park with new play areas and miniature car track. Grab lunch in the café or find out about the park’s history at the Heritage Centre.

Family events are held in the outdoor amphitheatre.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream Friday 27 July 6.30pm Adult £16, child £10, family ticket £46 (2 adults and 2 children) Outdoor performance in the amphitheatre. To book, call the Gala Theatre box office on 03000 266 600.

Teddy Bears’ Picnic Summer Brass series Every Sunday from 3 June to 26 August 1pm-3pm Free The Brass Summer Series returns for 2018. Local brass bands will entertain visitors in the amphitheatre every Sunday during the summer.

Big Brass Bash finale Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 July 6pm-9pm Free The spectacular finale of a summer of brass in the park and Durham Brass Festival.

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Wednesday 1 August 10am-11.30am and 1pm-2.30pm £4 per child This National Play Day, bring your teddy bear and picnic for a story, park trail and themed crafts. Booking required call 03000 262 655.

Pirate Pearl and the Big Blue Monster Wednesday 8 August Opens 12.30pm, show starts at 1.30pm Adult/child £10, family ticket £36 (2 adults and 2 children) Little Blue Monster presents the story of Pirate Pearl, a girl living on a ship who sets off on a swashbuckling adventure when she discovers a stowaway blue monster aboard ship. Suitable for little pirates and monsters aged from 3 years.

To book, call the Gala Theatre box office on 03000 266 600.

PA R K S

Summer holiday activities To book activities call 03000 262 655.

Rain or shine Every Tuesday from 24 July until 28 August 11am-3pm, £2 per child Weekly sessions to create, make, get messy and have lots of fun, no matter what the weather.

Pirate challenge Thursday 9 August 10am-11.30am, 1pm-3pm £6 per child.

Spaces limited, booking required Ahoy wannabe pirates! Join our shipshape training school and complete challenges to see if you make it to pirate graduation.

Wonderland adventurers Saturday 7 July 10am-11.30am, 1pm-2.30pm £6 per child, booking required An adventure inspired by Alice in Wonderland with themed games and creative challenges and the chance to explore the park grounds.

Daisies and dreams Thursday 26 July 10am-11.30am, 1pm-2.30pm £6 per child, booking required Inspired by the magic of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, join us to explore the park for signs of fairy life, create magical fairy masks and crowns, and learn how to be a fairy.

Opening times and charges: Hours: Monday to Sunday, vehicle access 8.30am-7pm, pedestrian access 24 hours.

Miniature cars and putting green open daily, 1pm-4.30pm from Saturday 28 July throughout the school summer holidays. Putting green free, cars £1.

Facilities: Café open 10am-4pm. Toilets open 10am-6.30pm.

Cost: Entry free, parking charges apply.

Wharton Park, Durham City DH2 4RR. 03000 262 655 www.durham.gov.uk/whartonpark

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PA R K S

Blackhill and Consett Park Located in the Blackhill conservation area, the park offers picturesque views as well as bowling greens, a bandstand and outdoor theatre.

Wild about the park Every Monday from 23 July until 20 August 10am-12noon, 1pm-3pm Places are free, advance booking is required. Donations are invited.

Try out a range of outdoor and indoor activities and learn about the natural environment.

A different theme for each day.

Sessions designed for families with younger children.

Nonsense and stuff Thursday 2 August 10.30am and 2pm ÂŁ2 (children three and under free) 4yrs and over Mad Alice Theatre Company presents a play for children with music and storytelling. Audience participation is optional. Two performances with follow up activities. To book, email m.weston@leisureworks.net

Blackhill and Consett Park, which opened in 1891, is now a popular and well-used community space. It features The Steel Trail

by Andrew McKeown and other artworks, a bandstand, drinking fountain and The Wishing Stone.

A weekly Parkrun and guided cycle rides take place throughout the year and community events are held during the summer months. There is also a community garden and a bowling green run by Consett Park Bowling Club.

Further development is taking place within The Lodge building as part of the Land Of Oak & Iron Landscape Partnership, with new display and interpretation facilities providing information for visitors and local residents.

Opening times and charges:

Hours: Open 24 hours.

Facilities: Parking, toilets, education room, bowling greens, bandstand, outdoor theatre and play area.

Cost: Entry free, car parking is free in the large car park adjacent to the park.

Blackhill and Consett Park, Laburnum Avenue, DH8 5TA. 01207 218 020 www.durham.gov.uk/BandCPark

To find out more about all parks around County Durham visit 8

www.durham.gov.uk/parks

If you want to take the first steps to improve your health and fitness, walking and running are cheap, fun and easy to do. To find out more visit www.durham.gov.uk/ walkingandrunning

Health walks Walk Durham is the local Walking for Health scheme, offering a programme of short, guided walks in communities across County Durham. The walks are designed to help people take their first steps in improving their wellbeing or simply to help maintain a healthy lifestyle.

All walks are free and guided by trained walk leaders. Walks range from 30 minutes to a maximum of 90 minutes.

The full timetable of walks is available at: www.durham.gov.uk/walkdurham

Guided walks Our guided walks range from short, easy walks to long, hard hikes. Try our creative walks for a chance to develop your photography or art skills, using the countryside as inspiration.

Download a programme at: www.durham.gov.uk/countryside There is a small charge for some walks.

ACTIVITIES

Walking and running

Parkrun Free Parkruns take place every week at parkland across the country. They’re open to everyone and are a safe and easy way to challenge yourself. There are several 5km Parkruns in County Durham taking place at: • Blackhill and Consett Park • Maiden Castle, Durham • Hackworth Park, Shildon • Riverside Park, Chester-le-Street • Hardwick Park Free weekly 2km Junior Parkruns for children aged four to 14 years also take place in Durham City and Sedgefield.

Sign up or find out more at: www.parkrun.org.uk

New to running Couch to 5K is a free and easy way to get fitter, happier and healthier in just 10 weeks. Starting with a mix of running and walking to gradually build up your fitness and stamina, it’s perfect for those who have never run before as well as anyone wanting to get back into exercise.

The next C25K courses start in September 2018. www.durham.gov.uk/running

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OUT & ABOUT

Countryside County Durham has some of the most beautiful landscapes in Britain. It is home to a huge variety of plants and animals, and the area has a fascinating historical and geological heritage.

As well as our fabulous countryside parks, the area also boasts a number of nature reserves, with habitats varying from woodland to grassland, heathland to coastal meadows.

There are also dozens of picnic areas, offering the opportunity to relax and take in some fresh air, and miles of pathways that are equally suitable for walkers, cyclists, horse riders and wheelchair users.

Weardale Weardale has a distinctive landscape of high moorland with dramatic views and snaking stone walls. www.discoverweardale.com www.explorenorthpennines.org.uk/ weardale

Find a full list of parks, picnic areas and nature reserves at www.durham.gov.uk/parks or www.durham.gov.uk/countryside

Volunteering If you want to help us look after the countryside, there are lots of opportunities, including practical work such as repairing paths and clearing vegetation, helping with guided walks and events, checking countryside sites and litter picking.

Contact countryside@durham.gov.uk 03000 264 589 10

Teesdale Follow in the footsteps of Turner, Dickens and Sir Walter Scott and admire Teesdale’s majestic waterfalls and pretty market towns. www.exploreteesdale.uk www.explorenorthpennines.org.uk/ teesdale

OUT & ABOUT

Coast Durham’s Heritage Coast is one of the finest coastlines in England.

Check out www.durhamheritagecoast.org for great ideas for days out and walks.

Our What’s on section on pages 40 to 47 also has lots of suggestions for summer activities on the coast.

Castle Eden Dene Castle Eden Dene is a magical world where yew, oak, ash and elm trees create a home for other plants and creatures. Castle Eden Dene is managed by Natural England. www.woodlandtrust.org.uk

Seaham Ever fancied trying your hand at kayaking, canoeing, climbing or paddle boarding? Our award winning Activity Centre at Seaham Harbour Marina offers a variety of sessions with professional coaching and all equipment is provided. www.seahammarina.com

Look out for our rare birds!

Take care if you’re visiting Crimdon this summer.

One of Britain’s rarest and smallest birds, the little tern makes Crimdon its summer home and there are only approximately 1,600 pairs left in Britain.

Help us to protect the little terns by: ✔✔ only walking on wet or hard sand ✔✔ not going near the fenced off area - even for photos

✔✔ keeping dogs on a tight lead ✔✔ leaving nothing but footprints on the sand and knowing your tide times

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THEATRE & CINEMA

Gala Theatre Durham

There’s always plenty to keep the whole family entertained at the Gala Theatre and Cinema, whatever the weather.

The Addams Family Presented by Gala Theatre Stage School Wednesday 1 to Saturday 4 August 7.30pm (+ 2.30pm on Saturday) £15 (£13.50 concession), £50 family ticket.

It’s every father’s nightmare – Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family.

A heart-warming story of love, family and friendship… with a twist! two tickets for The Addams Family To be in with a chance of winning answer the following question: What is the name of The Addams Family’s butler?

Find details of how to enter on page 2.

Gala Cinema Offering the latest blockbusters. Visit www.galadurham.co.uk/cinema for full listings and show times.

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Kids’ summer workshops The Addams Family Friday 3 August 1pm-2pm £12 Tread the boards and work on the set of this year’s Gala Theatre Stage School summer show.

ACT UP - summer school Monday 6 to Friday 10 August 10am-4.30pm daily Performance on Friday 10 August £120 per child (sibling discount £100 per child).

Gala Theatre’s brand new summer school invites young people aged 8 to 15 years to take over the theatre.

Choose the text, come up with the ideas, develop the characters and put the show together.

Gala Theatre and Cinema, Millennium Place, Durham DH1 1WA. Box Office 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk search galadurham @galadurham gala_durham

THEATRE & CINEMA

Bishop Auckland Town Hall Enjoy summer films, family fun, workshops, exhibitions and much more.

Puppet-making workshops Mini Matinee Perfect for keeping the kids entertained.

2pm, £3 Thursday 26 July Despicable Me 3 Thursday 2 August Captain Underpants Thursday 9 August Coco Thursday 16 August Paddington 2 Thursday 23 August Ferdinand Thursday 30 August Early Man

Block party Lego workshops Wednesday 1 August 10am, 11.45am and 1.30pm £1 per child 4yrs+ Lego themed workshops with Lego and Duplo bricks available.

Wednesday 8 August 10am £1 per child, 6yrs+, booking required

Animals about town Wednesday 8 August 10.30am Free Petting zoo in the Market Place, suitable for all ages

Circurama circus skills show and workshops Wednesday 15 August 1pm and 3pm £1 per child, 6yrs+, Plus free storytelling and craft sessions*.

Pop-up planetarium Wednesday 22 August 10am-3pm Free Plus free storytelling and craft sessions*.

Plus free storytelling and craft sessions*.

KandoArts shadow puppetry workshops Wednesday 8 August 10am, 11.30am and 1pm £1 per child, 6yrs +

Bishop Auckland Town Hall, Market Place, Bishop Auckland DL14 7NP. 03000 269 524 www.bishopaucklandtownhall.org.uk search bishoptownhall @bishoptownhall

* Big Adventure Exhibition-themed storytelling and craft sessions in the Gallery.

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THEATRE & CINEMA

Empire Theatre Consett

Live shows and screenings ranging from Shakespeare to the sounds of the swinging sixties in the heart of Consett.

Andre Rieu 2018 Maastricht concert Saturday 28 July and Wednesday 15 August 7pm, £16 A celebration of music from the King of Waltz, screened live from Maastricht in the Netherlands.

Opening times and contact: Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10am-3pm, Tuesday to Saturday: 6.30pm-9pm.

The Empire Theatre, Front Street, Consett DH8 5AB. 03000 262 400 www.consettempire.co.uk empiretheatreconsett

brassfestival.co.uk 14

RSC Live: The Merry Wives of Windsor Wednesday 12 September 7pm, £14 full, £12 concession Down on his luck in the suburbs, John Falstaff plans to hustle his way to a comfortable retirement by seducing the wives of two wealthy men. Broadcast live from Stratford-Upon-Avon.

The Empire Cinema Offering the very latest blockbusters, 3D movies and outstanding event cinema from around the world.

Visit www.consettempire.co.uk for listings.

DURHAM MINERS’ GALA SATURDAY 14 JULY 8.30am start Join Europe’s biggest celebration of community, international solidarity, and working class culture.

Banner parade, service at Durham Cathedral, brass music, speeches, stalls and fun fair.

Various locations around the city.

Indoor rock climbing at Durham Climbing Centre Climb all summer from

£25

Summe

r

Camps 13th - 1 7 20th - 2 th & 4th Aug ust

Suitable for adults and children from 2 years+ Coffee lounge and free parking www.durhamclimbingcentre.co.uk Call 0191 378 9555

YOUTUBE LOGO SPECS

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ACCESSIBLE ACTIVITIES

Local Offer

IncludFEST 2018

The Local Offer provides information and activities for families of children and young people with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND), from birth to the age of 25.

A fully inclusive and accessible arts festival for children, young people and families, IncludFEST, takes place at Wharton Park on Saturday 28 July from 1pm to 5pm.

Expect performances, interactive workshops and arts and crafts sessions where visitors will be invited to get creative.

This year’s event has an Appalachian Mountains theme, with sweet bluegrass music set to fill the air and scarecrows lining the fields.

The top end of Wharton Park will also be renamed as ‘Ways Creek’ for the event. www.includfest.co.uk

www.countydurhamfamilies.info/ localoffer

FIS The Families Information Service provides information, services and activities for families with children up to the age of 18 (or 25 with SEND). www.countydurhamfamilies.info

Splashability Spennymoor Leisure Centre Sundays, 4pm to 5pm £2.50

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HERITAGE

DLI Collection Discover the history of the DLI Regiment from its formation in 1758 to the final laying-up of the Colours in 1968 in Durham Cathedral.

Courage, Comrades, Community

DLI Collection gallery Learn more about the DLI at the free gallery; Courage, Comrades, Community at Palace Green Library.

DLI research, study and education

You can also visit When the Bugle Calls at Seaham Library until Monday 24 September. This is the second in a series of five annual exhibitions.

A touring exhibition, it explores the role of the regimental band in the British Army with the story of the DLI’s band and bugles at its heart.

Seaham Library opening hours: Monday: 9.30am-7pm Tuesday: 1.30pm-5pm Wednesday: 9.30am-12.30pm Thursday: 9.30am-7pm Friday: 9.30am-5pm Saturday: 9.30am-12.30pm Sunday: closed Public holidays: closed 18

Why not visit our research and study centre based in Sevenhills, Spennymoor?

We are open every Tuesday and Thursday from 10am to 3pm. Items stored in the collection at Sevenhills include uniforms, hats, buttons, weapons and ammunition.

Book an appointment to view items in the collection or speak to staff about education and outreach workshops.

DlicollectionEnquiries@durham.gov.uk 03000 266 631

Medal collection The DLI medal collection can be viewed at Palace Green Library in the Barker Reading Room.

Contact pg.library@durham.ac.uk 0191 334 2972

DLI online collection To find out more about the proud history of our local regiment and to view the online collection, visit www.durham.gov.uk/dlicollection

Killhope HERITAGE

Famous for its working waterwheel, the Victorian lead mining museum also offers stunning landscapes, scenic walks and lots to keep the kids entertained.

Free admission for kids during the school holidays Monday 23 and 30 July and 6, 13, 20 August 4-16yrs Free admission for children on Mondays during the school holidays. Excludes banks holidays.

Water rocket workshops Tuesday 31 July and Tuesday 14 and 21 August 11.30am-3pm £1 per child, 4-14yrs Design, build and launch your own water rocket. a family ticket to the museum To be in with a chance of winning a family ticket to the museum that can be used until the end of the season, tell us: What sort of giant wheel will you find at Killhope?

Find details of how to enter on page 2.

Perseid Meteor Shower Sunday 12 August 6pm-1am £4 adults, £2 children and concessions Bring a deck chair for an evening of stargazing with music by the Cream Tees folk group. The café will be open.

Booking essential.

Blacksmiths workshops Sunday 8 July and 19 August 10.30am-3.30pm £60 including lunch and refreshments Learn the skills of the blacksmith under the guidance of expert Chris Askew and make a fire poker to take home.

Booking essential.

Opening times and charges: Hours: 1 April until 29 October, 10.30am-5pm.

Admission: £4.70-£8.60, under 4s free.

Killhope, Cowshill, Bishop Auckland DL13 1AR. 01388 537 505 www.killhope.org.uk search Killhope

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FLYING SCOTSMAN ON SHOW JULY 11 – AUGUST 1 FREE ENTRY Visit www.locomotion.org.uk for details of themed events and activities Part of STEAM SEASON Shildon, County Durham, DL4 2RE 01904 685780 info@locomotion.org.uk

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Locomotion HERITAGE

Enjoy an awe-inspiring day exploring everything from traditional steam locomotives to futuristic experimental engines.

Steam Season

New for 2

018

An action-packed programme of events, exhibitions and activities inspired by steam.

Flying Scotsman Wednesday 11 July to Wednesday 1 August Your chance to get up close to No. 60103 Flying Scotsman, the world’s most famous locomotive.

Heritage Open Days Thursday 6 to Sunday 9 September and Thursday 13 to Sunday 16 September Get a behind-the-scenes look into the operation of a steam locomotive with a programme of talks and tours.

Railways on canvas: The art of Chris Pulham Sunday 19 August to Sunday 30 September Reminisce about the power of steam with this stunning exhibition. a family ticket for a steam train ride To be in with a chance of winning a family ticket (for two adults and up to three children) for a steam train ride (worth up to £12) on any of Locomotion’s 2018 standard passenger operating days, tell us: In what year did the Stockton and Darlington Railway officially open?

Find details of how to enter on page 2.

Opening times and charges: Hours: Open 10am-5pm daily.

Cost: Parking and admission are free of charge.

Locomotion, Shildon, County Durham DL4 2RE. 01904 685 780 www.locomotion.org.uk search locomotionshildon

For information about events and activities at The Bowes Museum and Beamish, turn to page 40 and 41.

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LIBRARIES

Libraries Let your library fuel your imagination...

Libraries across County Durham have fun school holiday activities for only £1 per child, per session.

To find out more visit www.durham.gov.uk/libraries

When you join one of our 39 libraries you get free access to: • Approximately half a million books

Mischief Makers – Summer Reading Challenge 2018

• Computers with a range of software and high speed broadband internet

Sign up at your local library and read six books of your choice to collect special stickers and other rewards. There’s a website to add to the fun too.

• Online book reservations through Library Online • Digital versions of your favourite magazines and over 5,000 eBooks and audiobooks which you can download straight to your PC or mobile device.

Join online today at www.durham.gov.uk/libraryonline 22

The theme for this year’s Summer Reading Challenge, which is produced

by The Reading Agency, is Mischief Makers.

Explore a map of Beanotown to find the buried treasure. Dennis, Gnasher and friends will help you solve clues and collect stickers, having lots of fun and adventures along the way. www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk Photo © Dale Cherry for The Reading Agency, with thanks to Idea Store Watney Market

SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE

Six weeks of fun!

It’s the beginning of the school holidays, but how are you going to keep the kids occupied for the next six weeks? Well, we’re here to help. We’ve scoured the county to find out what’s going on over the break and picked out some of the highlights in a handy, week-by-week guide. And there’s even the chance to win some fantastic prizes.

Weeakctiv1e!

Getting

What better way is there to kick-off the summer holidays than by getting out and getting active?

There are a range of venues around the county offering a huge variety of sports and activities that can be enjoyed even if the weather decides not to play along.

From football to dodgeball, or cycling to snorkelling, the kids can pick their favourites or try something new.

If you’ve got a budding Paul Collingwood or Jimmy Anderson in your family, then you could sign them up for professional

coaching workshops with All Round Cricket Coaching, which supports cricket clubs in recruiting and retaining junior cricketers. Sessions run from Tuesday 24 to Thursday 26 July. Mainsforth Cricket Club, to book contact 07840 273845. a voucher for All Round Cricket Coaching For the chance to win a £25 voucher for cricket coaching with All Round Cricket Coaching, tell us: What is the name of Durham County Cricket Club’s home ground?

Find details of how to enter on page 2.

#daysofsummer 23

SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE

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Culture

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Our county boasts a strong cultural heritage and a range of attractions that draw upon our rich history.

The county is dotted with castles, monuments, museums and other intriguing places to satisfy your cultural appetite.

One of the most renowned of these is Beamish, The Living Museum of the North, which is running its Summer of Fun event throughout the holidays. The interactive, open air museum never fails to deliver in immersing both children and adults alike in the reality of Britain in the 1820s, 1900s and 1940s.

As great as summer can be when the skies are blue and the sun is shining, you can’t always rely on the weather.

But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. There’s loads of stuff to get your teeth into that will offer a roof over your head and keep the whole family entertained during the inevitable downpours. It’s on these grey days that cinemas and theatres really shine. Empire Theatre and Cinema, Consett, and the Gala Cinema, Durham offer an array of movies and shows that will keep you smiling even when the weather is miserable. a family cinema ticket

a family day ticket for Beamish For the chance to win a family day ticket for two adults and two children for Beamish, tell us: Who was the founder and first director of Beamish? www.beamish.org.uk Find details of how to enter on page 2.

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For the chance to win a family cinema ticket for a selected film screening at the Empire Theatre and Cinema or Gala Cinema, tell us: How many screens does Gala’s cinema have?

Remember to tell us which cinema you would like tickets for.

Find details of how to enter on page 2.

Restrictions apply.

SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE

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Big nam

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As we move past the halfway point of the summer holidays and into the fourth week, it’s time to get serious with some big name bands.

Hardwick Live Festival, running over the weekend of 18 and 19 August, offers music fans the chance to soak up the sunshine with the likes of Kaiser Chiefs, Happy Mondays, Shed Seven, Feeder, Melanie C and more. The child-friendly musical extravaganza provides the perfect venue for a family fun day out that the kids won’t ever forget. a family ticket to Hardwick Live For the chance to win two adult and two children’s (under 18) tickets for Saturday or Sunday at Hardwick Live Festival, answer the following question – and remember to tell us whether you would like tickets for Saturday or Sunday: What did the Kaiser Chiefs predict?

Find details of how to enter on page 2.

One of the many virtues of living in County Durham is how easy it is to escape to the countryside.

When the weather is nice, there’s nothing sweeter than heading out of the city and exploring some of the rural landscapes that blanket the area.

If you really want to make the most of it, why not take your little ones to Down at the Farm? Not only are there farm animals to meet, but also some more exotic creatures including meerkats and raccoons, and you can even take a quad bike for a spin, along with other exhilarating activities. a summer holiday pass for Down at the Farm For the chance to win a summer holiday pass for a family of four at Down at the Farm, valid for use from 21 July to 2 September, simply tell us: What is a young donkey called?

Find details of how to enter on page 2.

#daysofsummer 25

SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE

Weekys o6ut!

Super da

The city of Durham is famous for its idyllic atmosphere and historical significance. With the imposing figures of the cathedral and the castle looming over the city below, it’s hard not to imagine how it looked in centuries gone by.

Aside from these two pillars of Durham’s past, there are other notable places that are just as beautiful including Crook Hall.

An afternoon spent strolling through its gardens, touring the 13th century building and savouring a cream tea is always time well-spent.

The Grade 1 listed hall is hosting a special event on Saturday 26 and Bank Holiday Monday 27 August where little superheroes are invited to come together to celebrate their great deeds with three very special guests…

So, the question is: do you know any superheroes?

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a family annual family pass for Crook Hall and Gardens For the chance to win an annual family pass to Crook Hall and Gardens, simply tell us: Durham Cathedral is the final resting place of which saint?

Find details of how to enter on page 2.

ACTIVITIES

Cycling

around the county Whether you’re new to cycling or a seasoned pro – get on your bike and enjoy some of the very best of our stunning county.

Find out more about cycling in County Durham, visit www.durham.gov.uk/cycling

County Durham is home to countless railway paths, bridleways and byways which offer excellent cycling routes.

Cycling is cheap, fun and easy to do.

If you’re new to cycling, a bit rusty, or you want to improve your health, our Cycle Durham programme hosts free weekly led cycle rides.

Rides are suitable for competent adult cyclists. If you don’t have a bike, don’t worry, Cycle Durham can lend you one along with a helmet – free of charge.

If you haven’t cycled much before or you’re out of the habit, free back on your bike courses are available to give you back your confidence and help you cycle safely.

Summer evening cycle rides are held every Thursday outside the Castle Public House, Bishop Auckland, 6pm-8pm and the Riverside Sports Pavilion, Chester-le-Street, 6pm-7.30pm. Rides will continue over the summer period until the light levels drop.

Bikes and helmets can be provided.

Find cycle routes at www.thisisdurham.com and www.sustrans.org.uk or contact pedalpower@durham.gov.uk for a selections of free maps including Bike Bowes and The Locomotion Way.

If off road is more your thing…

Hamsterley Forest is a must for mountain biking enthusiasts, with a selection of trails to suit all skill levels. www.forestry.gov.uk/ hamsterleyforest Gateway Wheelers organises sessions for those riding specialised bicycles in Chester-le-Street.

What’s more, they have a selection of bikes so you won’t have to worry about bringing your own. www.gatewaywheelers.org.uk

#daysofsummer 27

ACTIVITIES

Swimming Make a splash this summer with our packed pool programme featuring activities for all the family.

Splashtots Water toys offer little ones a great introduction to swimming. Sessions are specifically for younger children aged up to three years and are offered on a pay as you go basis.

Fun sessions Featuring rafts and floats, our family fun sessions are a great way to keep the kids entertained. Sessions take place in the small pool for little ones aged up to eight years and in the main pool for older children.

Inflatable sessions Suitable for children aged from eight to 14 years, our pool-based inflatable challenges will keep the kids active and occupied during the school holidays.

Family swim Bring the whole family for a splashing time in the pool.

Ready, Sett, Splash!

Join Brock the badger, Durham County Council’s very own early years’ mascot, and his friends as he learns to have fun in the pool. For children aged from two to six years, Ready, Sett, Splash offers 30 minutes of instructor led fun and games followed by 30 minutes of free time. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

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More details of swim activities at your local leisure centre can be found on pages 29 to 37 or www.durham.gov.uk/swimming

LEISURE CENTRES

ing a wide range of events We have leisure centres around the county, offer and activities. ing and gymnastics, there’s From making a splash in the pool to roller skat ed over the holidays. loads to keep youngsters active and entertain Contact your local leisure centre to find out more www.durham.gov.uk/leisurecentres

Abbey Leisure Centre Abbey Road, Pity Me, Durham DH1 5DQ. 03000 266 443 www.durham.gov.uk/abbeyleisurecentre

Young Lifestyles gym sessions Monday 23 July to Friday 31 August Monday to Friday, 8am11.30am, 3pm-6.30pm Saturday, 9.30am-2.30pm 11 to 15yrs, £12 per month

Soft play Monday 23 July to Friday 31 August Monday to Thursday, 9am11.30am, 3pm-4.30pm Up to 5yrs £1.50 first child, £1 second child and children under 1.

Abbey Youth multi-sport Every Thursday from 26 July until 30 August 6pm-7pm, 8 to 10yrs 7pm-8pm, 10 to 12yrs A variety of team-based games including dodgeball and football. £2

Gracie Barra Brazilian jiu-jitsu sessions Tuesday 7 to Thursday 9 August Mini Movers 5 to 7yrs, 9am-10.30am £7.50 per day Junior Movers 8 to 10yrs, 9am-11am £10 per day Teens 11yrs+, 9am-11am £10 per day info@graciebarradurham.com 07398 880 166

Sports hall discount offers Monday 23 July to Friday 31 August 9am-11am, 3pm-6pm Various options available for all ages. Monday to Friday weekday offers.

ShildonSunnydale Leisure Centre Middridge Lane, Shildon DL4 2EP. 03000 266 448 www.durham.gov.uk/ shildonsunnydale leisurecentre Sunderland Foundation of Light, football and dance holiday sessions.

For days, times, costs and to book a place visit www.foundationoflight. co.uk/sports-coaching/ school-holiday-sportscourses/

#daysofsummer 29

LEISURE CENTRES

Chester-le-Street Leisure Centre Burns Green, Chester-le-Street DH3 3QH. www.durham.gov.uk/clsleisurecentre

Ready, Sett, Splash!

Every Sunday from 22 July to 2 September 1.30pm-2.30pm, 2 to 6yrs £4 child, one free adult

Young Lifestyles gym sessions 23 July to 31 August Monday to Friday, 7am6.30pm (last entry 5.30pm) Saturday and Sunday, 8am5pm (last entry 4pm) 11 to 15yrs, £12 per month

Swimming crash courses Monday to Thursday – 23 to 27 July, 30 July to 3 August, 13 to 17 August and 20 to 24 August Aqua Tot 3 10am-10.30am and 10.30am-11am, 3 to 4yrs Stage 1 9am-9.30am and 9.30am-10am, 4 to 6yrs

Peterlee Leisure Centre St Cuthbert’s Way, Peterlee SR8 1AF. 0191 586 2400 www.1life.co.uk 30

03000 266 444

Stage 2 9am-9.30am and 9.30am-10am, 4 to 7yrs Breaststroke clinic 10am-10.30am Suitable for stage 4-7 Butterfly clinic 10.30am-11am Suitable for stage 4-7 £23 for five days – book at reception.

Fun swim 23 July to 31 August Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 1.30pm-2.30pm Sunday, 10.30am-11.30am 8yrs and over. Pool policy applies, £2.80 child, £4.20 adult, large pool

Soft play 23 July to 31 August Monday to Friday, 9am7pm, Saturday and Sunday, 9am-5pm, up to 5yrs, £2.60 first child, £1 second child and children under 1.

Splashtots 23 July to 31 August Wednesday 10am-11.30am and Friday 9am-11.30am up to 3yrs £4 child, one free adult

Gracie Barra Brazilian jiu-jitsu sessions Monday 13 to Wednesday 15 August Mini Movers 5 to 7yrs, 9am-10.30am £7.50 per day Junior Movers 8 to 10yrs, 9am-12noon £15 per day info@graciebarradurham.com 07398 880 166

Multi-sports activity camp Monday to Friday – 23 July to 31 August (except bank holiday Monday) 9am-3pm, £10 per day or £40 a week.

Gymnastics, football, dodgeball, arts and crafts, bouncy castle, giant snakes and ladders and other games. Bring a packed lunch and plenty to drink.

Medomsley Road, Consett, DH8 5HU. 01207 218 151 www.durham.gov.uk/consettleisurecentre

Multi-sport camp Monday to Friday – 23 to 27 July and 6 to 10 August 10am-3pm 6 to 12yrs Try a range of activities including football, dodgeball, swimming, tennis and arts and crafts.

Bring swimming kit on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Advance booking is required and participants should bring a packed lunch and a drink. £10 per day, £40 for the week.

Football camp Monday to Friday – 30 July to 3 August and 13 to 17 August 10am-3pm 6 to 12yrs Action-packed football and futsal coaching on our 4G pitch. Learn techniques, play matches and meet new friends. Advance booking required. Bring a packed lunch and drink. £10 per day, £40 for the week.

Soccer Tots

Fun Zone session

Every Friday from 27 July to 31 August 1pm-1.45pm, 4 to 5yrs Ball-handling skills and movement through stories and games.

2pm-2.45pm, 18 months to 4yrs Fun sessions to introduce children to the basic techniques of football with a professional coach.

Tuesday, 10am-1.30pm Friday, 10am-3pm £3 for maximum of 90 minutes

Slide Monday to Friday 1.30pm-3.30pm £2.80 child, £4 adult

Rafts

Turn up and pay £3.

Monday to Friday 1.30pm-2.30pm £2.80 child, £4 adult

Rhyme Time session

Slides and rafts

Tuesday, 1.30pm-2.30pm £3.50

Swimming crash courses

LEISURE CENTRES

Consett Leisure Centre

Tuesday, 6.15pm-7.45pm Saturday, 1.15pm-3.45pm Sunday, 10am-12noon £2.80 child, £4 adult

Monday to Friday Week 1 - 23 to 27 July Week 2 - 30 July to 3 August Week 5 - 20 to 24 August 4yrs+ Non-swimmer: 8am and 8.30am Beginner: 9.30am £25 for five days Book and pay at the reception desk.

#daysofsummer 31

LEISURE CENTRES

Freeman’s Quay Leisure Centre Walkergate, Durham DH1 1SW. 03000 268 488 www.durham.gov.uk/freemansquayleisurecentre

Sports hall discount offers Monday 23 July to Friday 31 August 10am-3pm Various options available Monday to Friday weekday offers.

Young Lifestyles gym sessions Monday 23 July to Friday 31 August Monday to Friday, 7am6.30pm (last entry 5.30pm) Saturday and Sunday, 8am5.30pm (last entry 4.30pm) 11 to 15yrs, £12 per month

Swimming crash courses Monday to Friday 23 to 27 July, 30 July to 3 August, 13 to 17 August and 20 to 24 August Aqua Tot 3 10am-10.30am and 10.30am-11am, 3 to 4yrs

Meadowfield Leisure Centre

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Stage 1 9am-9.30am and 9.30am-10am, 4 to 6yrs

Multi-sports and aqua youth

Breaststroke clinic 10am-10.30am Suitable for stage 4-7

Thursdays 26 July to 30 August 9am-1pm, 8 to 12yrs A variety of team-based sports plus a aqua youth session, £10. Pool policy applies.

Butterfly clinic 10.30am-11am Suitable for stage 4-7

Gracie Barra Brazilian jiu-jitsu sessions

£23 for five days.

Monday 20 to Wednesday 22 August Mini Movers 5 to 7yrs, 9am-11am £10 per day

Stage 2 9am-9.30am and 9.30am-10am, 4 to 7yrs

Fun Swim Monday 23 July to Friday 31 August Monday to Friday, 2pm-4pm Saturday, 2pm-4.30pm Sunday,11.30am-1pm 8yrs and over £2.80 child, £4.20 adult Large pool

John Street North, Meadowfield DH7 8RS. 03000 266 445 www.durham.gov.uk/ meadowfieldleisurecentre

Junior Movers 8 to 10yrs, 9am-12noon £15 per day Teens 11yrs+, 9am-12noon £15 per day info@graciebarradurham.com 07398 880 166

SimplySport, football and multi-sports holiday sessions For days, times, costs and to book a place visit www.simplysportltd.co.uk

Riverside Park Friday fun

Riverside South, Chester-le-Street DH3 3SJ. 03000 266 477 www.durham.gov.uk/ riversideleisurecomplex

Fridays – 27 July to 31 August 12noon-3pm Under 16yrs. Includes Bike 360 Display Team, wall climb, story day, and multi-sports.

Free

LEISURE CENTRES

Riverside Leisure Complex

Louisa Centre Front Street, Stanley DH9 0TE. 01207 218 877 www.durham.gov.uk/thelouisacentre

Multi-sport camp Monday 20 to Friday 24 August 10am-3pm 6 to 12yrs Try activities including football, dodgeball, swimming, tennis and arts and crafts. Bring swimming kit every day. Advance booking required. Bring a packed lunch and drink. £10 per day or £40 for the week.

Louisa Lagoon and Little Lagoon Daily Sunday to Friday, 8am-7.30pm and Saturday 8am-4.30pm All children must be supervised, £3

Swimming crash courses Monday to Friday Week 1 - 23 to 27 July Week 2 - 30 July to 3 August Week 3 - 6 to 10 August Week 4 - 13 to 17 August 4+yrs Non-swimmer: 8am and 8.30am Beginner: 9.30am £25 for five days Book and pay at the reception desk.

Inflatable Every Wednesday 2.45pm-3.45pm Must be able to swim 50m, £2.80

Soccer tots Every Friday from 27 July to 31 August 10am-10.45am, 18 months to 4yrs Ball handling skills and movement through stories and games.

11am-11.45am, 4 to 5yrs Fun sessions to introduce children to the basic techniques of football with a professional coach.

Turn up and pay £3.

Fun and splash Every Saturday 2.45pm-3.45pm Inflatables and rafts, £2.80 child, £4 adult

#daysofsummer 33

LEISURE CENTRES

Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre Beveridge Arcade, Newton Aycliffe DL5 4EH. 03000 266 446 www.durham.gov.uk/newtonaycliffeleisurecentre

Young Lifestyles gym sessions Saturday 21 July to Sunday 2 September Monday to Friday, 6.30am6pm, Saturday and Sunday, 8am-5pm Gym sessions for 11 to 15yrs. Induction required.

Ask a gym instructor for a programme designed for your workout goals. Fitness classes also available. £12 per month

Sports hall hire Saturday 21 July to Sunday 2 September Monday to Friday 10am-4pm Subject to availability £10 per hour

Badminton court hire Saturday 21 July to Sunday 2 September Monday to Friday 10am-4pm Subject to availability £5 per hour

Swimming crash courses Stage 1 Monday to Friday – 23 to 27 July and 13 to 17 August 9.15am-9.45am 5yrs and over, £23 34

Tuesday 28 to Friday 31 August 9.15am-9.45am 5yrs and over, £18.50 Stage 2/3 Monday 30 July to Friday 3 August 9.15am-9.45am 5yrs and over, £23

Ready, Sett, Splash!

Friday swim clinics

Monday – 23 July and 6 August 3pm-3.30pm, 8yrs and over Must be able to swim 10 metres. £4

Front crawl - 27 July Backstroke - 3 August Breast stroke -10 August Butterfly - 17 August 3pm-3.45pm 8yrs and over. Improve your swimming with our half-hour swim clinics, each focussing on a different stroke. Must be able to swim 25 metres. £5

Pool inflatable session Saturday 21 July to Sunday 2 September Tuesday and Thursday, 2.30pm-3.30pm Saturday, 2pm-3pm £2.80

Splash Tots Saturday 21 July to Sunday 2 September Wednesday, 10am-11am Sunday, 9am-10.30am Pre-school open swim session in the shallow end of the pool. £4 child, each additional child £1.

Saturday 21 July to Sunday 2 September Tuesday, 11am-12noon 2 to 6yrs Instructional pool fun and free play. £4 child, each additional child £1.

Learn to snorkel

Rookie lifeguard Monday 23 July, Wednesday 22 and Wednesday 29 August 3pm-3.45pm, 8yrs and over Have you ever wanted to learn how the lifeguards at your local pool train? In these sessions children can gain an insight into lifesaving skills, water survival techniques and rescues. Must be able to swim 25 metres. £4

Water polo skills session Wednesday - 25 July, 1 and 8 August 3.30pm-4pm, 8yrs and over Learn new skills in this introductory session to the fun sport of water polo.

Must be able to swim 25 metres. £4

Woodhouse Lane, Bishop Auckland DL14 6JX. 03000 261 322 www.durham.gov.uk/woodhousecloseleisurecomplex

Inflatable session

Young Lifestyles gym sessions 11 to 15yrs, £12 per month

Weekly swimming crash course

(5 days) Tots – Stage 1 and 2 Monday – 23 and 30 July, 6, 13 and 20 August 9.30am-9am, 3 to 4yrs 9am-9.30am, 5yrs and over £23, booking required

Ready, Sett, Splash!

Monday – 23 July to 27 August Thursday – 26 July to 30 August Sunday – 29 July to 26 August 11am-12noon and 1pm-2pm Saturday – 28 July to 1 September 11.30am to 12.30pm 2 to 6yrs £4 (£1 additional children), booking required.

(large pool) Monday – 23 July to 27 August Wednesday – 25 July to 29 August Friday – 27 July to 31 August 1pm-3pm, 8yrs and over, £2.80 per session Confident swimmers over 25 metres.

Float session

(small pool) Monday to Friday – 23 July to 31 August 1pm-3pm Under 8yrs, £2.80 per session

Float session

(large pool) Tuesday – 24 July to 28 August Thursday – 26 July to 30 August 1pm-3pm £4 per session, confident swimmers over 25 metres, booking required

LEISURE CENTRES

Woodhouse Close Leisure Centre

Stroke improvement session Tuesday – 7 and 28 August Stage 5 plus 9am-10am Stage 3 and 4 10am-11am £4 per session

Water skills Tuesday 21 August Stage 5 plus 9am-10am Stage 3 to 4 10am-11am £4

Otters’ holiday camp Monday 30 July to Friday 3 August and Monday 13 to Friday 17 August 8.30am-3.30pm 8yrs and over £100, booking required

Snorkelling Monday – 23 and 30 July, 6, 20 and 28 August 10.30am-11.30am Strong swimmer over 25 metres. £4

#daysofsummer 35

LEISURE CENTRES

Teesdale Leisure Centre Strathmore Road, Barnard Castle DL12 8DS. 03000 260 862 www.durham.gov.uk/teesdaleleisurecentre Please book all sessions in advance.

Tivity Tots

Pre-school gymnastics

Monday, 9.30am-11am Up to 5yrs, first child £2.60, second child £1

Tuesday 31 July, Wednesday 8 3pm-4pm Tuesday 21 August 11am-12noon 3 to 4yrs, £4 per session

Inflatable fun Monday 23 July to Friday 31 August Monday to Friday, 3pm4pm (confident swimmers over 25 metres) Saturday and Sunday, 11am-12noon 8yrs and over, £2.80 per session

Fun session (small pool) Monday 23 July to Friday 31 August Monday to Friday, 3pm-4pm, Sunday, 11am-12noon £2.80

Ready, Sett, Splash!

Monday 23 July to Friday 31 August Wednesday and Friday, 2pm-3pm Saturday, 11am-12noon 2 to 6yrs, £4

Snorkelling Tuesday – 24 and 31 July and 21 August 9.30am-10.30am Strong swimmer over 50 metres. £4 per session 36

Mini football Tuesday 14 August 1pm-4pm, 3 to 5yrs, £3

Cricket camp Tuesday 31 July 1pm-4pm 5 to 11yrs, £6

Gymnastics camp

Tuesday 14 August 2pm-3pm, 5 to 11yrs, £3

Wednesday 1 and Thursday 9 August 10am-4pm 5yrs and over, £30 per session

Camps

Gymnastics camp

Dodgeball

For 10am-4pm sessions, drop off at 9am at no extra charge.

Trampoline camp Monday 23 July, Tuesday 7 and Monday 20 August 1pm-4pm 5yrs and over, £10 per session

Football camp Tuesday 24 July 1pm-4pm, 5 to 11yrs, £6

Sports camp Thursday – 26 July, 2 August, and 16 August 10am-4pm 5 to 11yrs, £20 per session

Wednesday 22 August 1pm-4pm 5yrs and over, £10

Gymnastic camp (3 days) Wednesday 15 to Friday 17 August 10am-4pm 5yrs and over, £75

Otters’ holiday camp Monday 6 to Friday 10 August £100 Tuesday 28 to Friday 31 August £80 8.30am-4pm, 8yrs and over

LEISURE CENTRES

Spennymoor Leisure Centre High Street, Spennymoor DL16 6DB. 03000 261 161 www.durham.gov.uk/spennymoorleisurecentre

Young Lifestyles gym sessions

Multi-sensory room induction

Monday to Saturday, 7.30am-6.30pm Sunday, 7.30am-5pm 11 to 15yrs, £12 per month

Various dates/times £5 per person

Waves, slide and splash

Up to 2yrs Monday, 1pm and 2pm Thursday, 1pm Friday, 9.15am and 10.15am £4 per child

Monday to Friday, 10.30am-3.30pm Saturday and Sunday, 10am-3.30pm

Splash tots Monday, 9am-10am Friday, 9.30am-10.30am Pre-school, £4, £1 each additional child

Ready, Sett, Splash! (small pool)

Wednesday, 9.30am-10.30am 2 to 6yrs, £4, £1 each additional child

Toddler time 21 July to 2 September Wednesday, 10am-11.30am Friday, 10am-11.30am 5yrs and under First child £2.60, second child £1

Multi-sensory room – baby session

Multi-sensory room children’s open sessions Tuesday - 9am Wednesday - 1pm Thursday - 9am and 10.15am Saturday and Sunday 10am £4 per child

Multi-sensory room adult’s open sessions Tuesday, 11.30am Thursday, 3.30pm Saturday and Sunday, 11am £5.50 per adult

Splashability Sunday 4pm, £2.50 per person, carers free of charge

Sports hall hire From 10am to 4pm subject to availability, £10 per hour

Badminton court hire From 10am to 4pm subject to availability, £5 per hour

Learn to snorkel Wednesday – 25 July and 1 August 9.30am-10am 8yrs and over, confident swimmers over 10 metres £4

Friday swim clinic

9.30am-10am Front crawl – 27 July Backstroke – 3 August Breaststroke – 10 August 8yrs and over £5 per session

Rookie lifeguard Friday – 27 July, 3 and 10 August 10am-10.30am 8yrs and over £4 per session

#daysofsummer 37

Cold water shock can kill.

If you go into cold water such as rivers, lakes, reservoirs and quarries, this could be deadly... #dyingtobecool Supported by

#CampaigningforCam

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DISCOVER FAMILY FUN AT THE CRICKET THIS SUMMER JULY 13 – AUGUST 17

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS VISIT WWW.DURHAMCCC.CO.UK/T20-BLAST

FIXTURES 2018 Friday, 13 July Durham Jets vs Yorkshire Vikings Friday, 20 July Durham Jets vs Worcestershire Rapids Saturday, 28 July Durham Jets vs Notts Outlaws Thursday, 2 Aug Durham Jets vs Northants Steelbacks Wednesday, 8 Aug Durham Jets vs Leicestershire Foxes Sunday, 12 Aug Durham Jets vs Lancashire Lightning Friday, 17 Aug Durham Jets vs Derbyshire Falcons

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JULY TO SEPTEMBER

What’s on The Bowes Museum www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk 01833 690 606

This summer the BFG comes to The Bowes Museum with a magical exhibition featuring 40 of Quentin Blake’s original illustrations for Roald Dahl’s enduring story.

The exhibition will be accompanied by a programme of special events.

All activities are free with museum admission.

I is a Big Friendly Giant – make BFG ears

and dream horn Friday 3, Monday 6 to Friday 10 and Monday 13 and Tuesday 14 August 10.30am-4pm

Zzzzz Sweet Dreams

– make a dream catcher Monday 23, Tuesday 24, Thursday 26, Friday 27, Monday 30, Tuesday 31 July 10.30am-4pm

Summer sun family fun day Wednesday 25 July 11am-4pm

Make a BFG or Sophie puppet Wednesday 1 and Thursday 2 August 10.30am-4pm

drop-in session Wednesday 22 August 11am-4pm

Model-making fun Tuesday 28 to Friday 31 August 10.30am-4pm

A nursery rhyme in line and wash Dream jars galore – dream jar-making Wednesday 15 and Thursday 16 August 10.30am-4pm

Giant cut and stick –

create a BFG collage Friday 17, Monday 20 to Thursday 24 August 10.30am-4pm

Pick up a Visit County Durham food & drink guide for great ideas on where to eat on your day out.

Available at libraries and customer access points across the county or download at www.thisisdurham.com/publications 40

Go wild family fun day – animal-themed

Friday 14 September 10am-4.30pm A one day workshop. Join artist Linda Birch to create your own illustration inspired by Quentin Blake’s lively illustrations to Roald Dahl’s tales for children.

Using simple steps, this day course will enable you to create a charming picture for a nursery wall. £35 adults, £3 Friends.

Booking required.

www.beamish.org.uk 0191 370 4000 Festival of 50s Thursday 12 to Sunday 15 July 10am-5pm Dance to live music, treat yourself to a 50s hairdo or enjoy some 50s-style refreshments in the sun.

Summer of Fun

WHAT’S ON

Beamish Museum

Saturday 21 July to Wednesday 29 August 10am-5pm Activities include Suffragette marches, music and explosive science demonstrations.

Dig for Victory Meccano Exhibition Saturday 14 to Sunday 15 July 10am-5pm The North East Meccano Society’s annual exhibition with construction sets dating from the early 1900s to the present day.

Thursday 30 August to Sunday 2 September 10am-5pm Find out about life on the Home Front during the Second World War. All activities included in museum entry.

Agricultural Shows Weardale (St John’s Chapel) Saturday 25 August

The Witham, Barnard Castle

Wolsingham Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 September

www.thewitham.org.uk 01833 631 107

Bowes Village Saturday 8 September

Samling Academy Opera: Venus and Adonis

Stanhope Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 September

Friday 20 July 7.30pm, £10-£15

£3-£6 www.weardale-show.co.uk

£4-£10 www.wolsinghamshow.co.uk £2-£5 www.bowesshow.org.uk

£4-£8 www.stanhopeshow.com

Beamish Museum

Thursday 13 to Sunday 16 September Free with normal museum admission charge www.beamish.org.uk

Sheelanagig Friday 31 August 8pm, £15-£17

#daysofsummer 41

WHAT’S ON

The Bevin Boys

REGULAR EVENTS

The Bevin Boys War’s Forgotten Workforce

Mining Art Gallery, Market Place, Bishop Auckland Every day until 30 September 10am-4pm (last entry 3.30pm) Featuring work by David McClure, John Tipton, Ted Holloway and Tom McGuinness. www.aucklandproject.org 01388 743 750 Admission applies

Norman Cornish – Coming Home

Bob Abley Art Gallery, Spennymoor Town Hall Every Monday to Friday 12noon-4pm Every Saturday10am-2pm Sketches and paintings by Norman Cornish. www.spennymoor-tc.gov.uk 01388 815276. Free

Wild Wednesdays

Bowlees Visitor Centre, Barnard Castle Every Wednesday 10.30am-12.30pm and 1.30pm-3.30pm Fun, practical two-hour activity sessions for children aged 4 to 13 years.

Booking required. www.northpennines.org.uk/ events-calendar 01833 622 145 £3 per child per session 42

Bounce and soft play

Holiday roller disco

Spectrum Leisure Centre, Willington Every Wednesday from 25 July to 29 August 2pm-3.30pm www.spectrumleisure centre.com 01388 747 000 £3 per skater

SSE Wildcats (Deerness Valley FC) Framwellgate School, Durham Every Thursday 5.30pm-6.30pm Get involved with SSE Wildcats, have fun, make friends, play football. £2 per session

Weardale Community Choir St Thomas’ Church Hall, Stanhope Every Thursday 7pm-9pm Weekly rehearsals for all.

No previous experience needed. Facebook page: weardale community choir

Bounce and soft play/ football sessions Spectrum Leisure Centre, Willington Every Thursday from 26 July to 30 August 2pm-3.30pm www.spectrumleisure centre.com 01388 747 000 £3 per child

Hurworth craft fair

Junior cricket coaching

Mainsforth Cricket Club Every Friday 6pm-8pm www.mainsforth.playcricket.com 07903 694 300. Free

Scarth Hall craft fair

Scarth Hall, Staindrop, Barnard Castle First Sunday of every month 10am-3pm Monthly craft fair. www.facebook.com/chrissy scraftyevents 07877 076 395. Free

Hurworth craft fair

Hurworth Village Hall, Hurworth-on-Tees Last Sunday of every month 10am-4pm Monthly craft fair. www.facebook.com/chrissy scraftyevents 07877 076 395. Free JULY Chester-le-Street Theatre Group presents

My Fair Lady

Chester-le-Street Community Centre Tuesday 10 to Saturday 14 July 7.15pm Set in modern day Newcastle. www.clstheatregroup.com 0191 388 3778. £8-£10

Seaham Film Festival Terrace Green, Seaham Friday 13 July 6pm-10pm The Greatest Showman at 6pm, Dreamgirls at 8pm.

Saturday 14 July 12.30pm-5pm Mary Poppins and Coco. www.seaham.gov.uk 0191 581 8034. Free

Aycliffe Festival

Newton Aycliffe and Aycliffe Village Friday 13 to Sunday 29 July Live outdoor music. www.great-aycliffe.gov.uk/ events/aycliffe-festival 01325 300 700 Most events free

Fun dog show

East Durham College, Houghall Campus Saturday 14 July 10am-4pm, In aid of Great North Air Ambulance and Barnardos Whitley Bay. www.durhamcountydogs. webs.com 07783 146 476 Free entry. Entries to judging are £1 per class.

Mixed Open

Barnard Castle Golf Club, Barnard Castle Saturday 14 July 10.30am-3pm Stableford, teams of two men and two women. www.barnardcastlegolfclub.org 01833 638 355 £56 per team of 4

Seaham carnival

Seaham carnival

Terrace Green, Seaham Sunday 15 July 11am-10pm Tribute bands, fairground rides, free climbing wall and stalls. www.seaham.gov.uk 0191 581 8034. Free

Roma Antiqua

Binchester Roman Fort Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 July 11am and 2pm Adults £7, concessions £6, child 4-16 yrs free See demonstrations of archery, slingstaffs and firing of the full-size replica of the artillery catapult.

Then visit the tented encampment and inspect the weapons, armour and equipment of Roman soldiers as well as the stalls of civilian traders and artisans. Finish off with a tour of the site and be amazed by the size and importance of Vinovia. www.durham.gov.uk/ binchester 01388 663 089

Classic Car Show

Bishop Auckland Market Place Sunday 15 July 10am-4pm Classic car show with around 40 classic and vintage cars on display. www.facebook.com/ batownteam/ 01388 609 852. Free

The Summer Exhibition at No.42

Mighty Wurlitzer and Cream Tea Concert

WHAT’S ON

Barnard Castle Golf Club

New Victoria Centre, Howden-le-Wear Sunday 15 July 2.30pm-5pm Booking essential. www.netoa.org.uk 01388 601 596. £8 including concert and cream tea

Ferryhill, Sedgefield and District Flower Club members evening workshop

Parish Hall, Sedgefield Tuesday 17 July 7.30pm-9pm Workshop and faith supper.

07533 752 870 £15 per person All materials included

The Summer Exhibition at No.42

No.42, Market Place, Bishop Auckland Wednesday 18 July to Saturday 1 September Open Wednesday to Friday 10am-5pm Art from across the region. www.aucklandproject.org 01388 660 270. Free Lanchester Choral Society presents

Feel Good - The Magic of the Musicals

Lanchester Methodist Church Thursday 19 to Friday 20 July 7.15pm-9.30pm. £9

#daysofsummer 43

WHAT’S ON

Down at the Farm

Print Making Masterclass

Greenfield Arts, Greenfield Way, Newton Aycliffe Thursday 19 July 10.30am-4.30pm Learn monoprint and dry point etching. helholcroft@googlemail.com www.greenfield-arts.co.uk £45

Illumination Wall Art – Exhibition ‘Ascension’

Greenfield Arts, Greenfield Way, Newton Aycliffe Thursday 19 July to Wednesday 8 August Preview Night – Wednesday 18 July 2018, 6pm-8pm

Jez Lowe Solo Concert

Scarth Hall, Staindrop Saturday 21 July 8pm-11pm www.scarthhall.co.uk 07950 625387. £8

Six weeks of summer fun

Down at the Farm, Houghton-le-Spring Saturday 21 July to Sunday 2 September 10am-5pm Feed lambs, pet the chicks and rabbits and see piglets, meerkats, donkeys and more. www.downatthefarm.co.uk £5.95-£6.95 per child 44

Jack Drum Arts

Twelfth Night

Old Durham Gardens Sunday 22 July 2pm-3.30pm www.olddurhamgardens. co.uk Free entry, donations will be collected to aid the conservation and development of the gardens.

Jack Drum Arts summer school

Deer Park, Auckland Castle, Bishop Auckland Tuesday 24 to Friday 27 July Explore stories of Bishop Auckland miners in wartime.

Booking is required via email info@jackdrum.co.uk or call 01388 765 002.

Two performances will take place in the Deer House on Friday 27 July. www.aucklandproject.org 01388 743 797 £25 per person

Junior cricket summer camp

Mainsforth Cricket Club Tuesday 24 to Thursday 26 July 10am-3pm Aged 7yrs+. Newcomers and experienced players welcome for fun cricket skills and games. www.allroundcricket coaching.com 07840 273 845 £25 per day per person or £65 per person for all three days. Discount applied for siblings.

Marco’s Circus Workshop

Ancient Egyptian Object Handling

Durham University Oriental Museum Wednesday 25 July 1pm-3pm Get hands-on with a range of ancient Egyptian objects. www.dur.ac.uk/oriental. museum 0191 334 5694 £1.50 per adult, 75p per child

Marco’s Circus Workshop

Durham University Botanic Garden Thursday 26 July 10.30am-4pm Learn circus tricks, including how to juggle and spin plates at this fun workshop. www.dur.ac.uk/botanic. garden/whatson 0191 334 2887

Total Lunar Eclipse

Moorhouse Upper Teesdale National Nature Reserve Friday 27 July 8pm-11pm Watch a full moon eclipse over Upper Teesdale Booking essential.

For details and to book online: goo.gl/yx2qAp or call 01833 622 374. £10

Bon Accords

Castleside Village Hall Saturday 28 July 8pm-11.30pm The Bon Accords Scottish dance band.

01207 509 253 £5 at the door

Men’s open weekend

Barnard Castle Golf Club Saturday 28 July 7.20am-3.45pm Two Open golf competitions. www.barnardcastlegolfclub.org 01833 638 355 £56 per team of four

Live music

Newton Aycliffe Town Centre Mall Saturday 28 July 12noon-8pm Live performances from local bands. Karaoke and prizes. www.ayclifferadio.co.uk 07931 701 444. Free

Summer Saturdays Live Bishop Auckland Market Place Saturday 28 July, Saturday 4 August, Saturday 11 August, Saturday 25 August 2pm-6pm 01388 609 852 www.facebook.com/ batownteam Free

Waterfalls and Wildlife Walk

AUGUST

Mindgame

City Theatre, Fowlers Yard, Durham Wednesday 1 to Saturday 4 August 7.30pm-9.45pm A scary thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. www.galadurham.co.uk 03000 266 600. £7.50

Waterfalls and Wildlife Walk Bowlees Visitor Centre Friday 3 August 10am-3pm A 7.5 mile walk along the River Tees to High Force.

Return along Holwick Fell slopes. Meet at Bowlees car park. Bring a packed lunch.

Booking essential. Book online: goo.gl/a8Nh42 01833 622 374. £3

The Auckland Project Craft Saturday

No.42, Market Place, Bishop Auckland Saturday 4 August and Saturday 1 September Drop in from 2pm-4pm Share your talents, get help with a project, learn a new skill or enjoy creative time with friends. www.aucklandproject.org 01388 743 797. Free

Family Bushcrafts

Summer Festival

Castle Eden Dene National Nature Reserve Saturday 4 August 11am-3pm Crafts, machinery display, traditional games.

0191 586 0004 Suggested donation £2

WHAT’S ON

Live music Newton Aycliffe

Family Bushcrafts

Hamsterley Forest Sunday 5 August 1pm-4.30pm Build a shelter and build a camp fire. Children should be 5 years or over. www.natureholiday.co.uk 01388 529 154. £40 per family (2 to 4 people) £10 per additional person. Maximum of two children per adult.

Crazy Creatures

Durham University Botanic Garden Thursday 9 August 10am-4pm Animal encounters with rabbits, frogs, snakes, spiders, mice and other animals to enjoy. www.dur.ac.uk/botanic. garden/whatson 0191 334 2887

Party in the Park

Jubilee Park, Spennymoor Friday 10 August 6pm-11pm Live performances, children’s entertainment and activities, catering trailers and bar. info@spennymoor-tc.gov.uk 01388 815 276. Free

#daysofsummer 45

WHAT’S ON

Wilderness Survival Challenge

Bishop Buskers Day

Bishop Auckland Town Centre Saturday 11 August 10am-3pm Local singers and bands performing in the Market Place and along Newgate Street. www.facebook.com/ batownteam 01388 609 852. Free

Wild Food in Summer Harehope Quarry, Frosterley Sunday 12 August 1.30pm-3.30pm 13yrs+. An introduction to the wild food available in summer with experienced forager Bruce Ferguson. www.natureholiday.co.uk 01388 529 154 £15 per person

Wilderness Survival Challenge

Hamsterley Forest Tuesday 14 August 1.30pm-4.30pm 8yrs to 16 yrs only. www.natureholiday.co.uk 01388 529 154 £15 per person 46

Horndale Residents Association

New Brandon WI Floral Demonstration St Andrews Church, Brandon Tuesday 14 August 7pm-9pm Flower arranging using supermarket flowers.

0191 378 4781

Horndale Residents Association Community Fun Day Greenfield Community College, Newton Aycliffe Thursday 16 August 10am-3pm With petting zoo, pony rides, bouncy castles, small fun fair, fire brigade, police, army, face painting and vintage bus rides.

Free admission, some rides have a small charge.

Creatures of the Night Bowlees Visitor Centre, Barnard Castle Friday 17 August 7.30pm-10.30pm Discover the creatures that come out at night with the aid of bat detectors and moth traps. Booking required. www.northpennines.org. uk/events-calendar 01833 622 145 Adult £3, child £1

Fabulous Fish

Fabulous Fish

(Autism friendly art session available)

Durham University Oriental Museum Friday 24 August Drop in between 1pm-3pm Autism friendly drop in between 10am-12noon 5 to 11 years. Children must be accompanied by an adult. www.dur.ac.uk/oriental. museum 0191 334 5694 £1.50 per adult, 75p per child

A Night Safari in the Forest

Hamsterley Forest Saturday 25 August 9pm-10.30pm 8yrs+. Night time expedition in search of some of the nocturnal inhabitants of the forest. www.natureholiday.co.uk 01388 529 154 £5 per person. Maximum of four children per adult.

Moth Morning

Bowlees Visitor Centre, Barnard Castle Saturday 25 August 10.30am-12noon See and identify some of our beautiful night-flying insects. Booking required www.northpennines.org.uk/ events-calendar 01833 622 145. Free

The Auckland Project Trail Race

The Auckland Project Trail Race

Deer Park, Auckland Castle, Bishop Auckland Sunday 26 August 11am 16 years+. £9 per entry Five-mile trail race through the all-terrain deer park plus two-mile fun run for children under 16. £4 per entry. Book online by Friday 17 August 2018 at www.aucklandproject.org 01388 743 797

Hamsterley Hoppings

Hamsterley Village Green Sunday 26 August 11am-4pm Stalls, classic cars, vintage tractors, children’s races, competitions and tea rooms.

The Winking Sheep Sportive

St John’s Chapel, Weardale Sunday 26 August 8am-6pm A cross border with a choice of three cycling courses: 55 mile/4700ft, 75 mile/7000ft and 90 mile/9000ft. www.winkingsheepsportive. org.uk 07551 598 744 £25 online or £30 on the day

Superheroes

Crook Hall and Gardens From Sunday 26 to Monday 27 August 10am-5pm www.crookhallgardens.co.uk 0191 384 8028. Free-£8

Roman Antiqua

Binchester Roman Fort Monday 27 August 11am and 2pm Adults £7, concessions £6, child 4-16 yrs free The final demonstration of the year of Roman weaponry and fighting skills. www.durham.gov.uk/binchester 01388 663 089 Drama in the Dale’s performance of

As You Like It

Grounds of St Thomas’ Church and the Dales Centre in Stanhope Thursday 30 August to Sunday 2 September 6.30pm-9.30pm www.dramadale.co.uk 07811 221 151. £10 per adult, £30 family of four.

Bat Night

Castle Eden Dene National Nature Reserve Friday 31 August 7.30pm-9.30pm Discover which of these winged wonders can be found in the woods.

0191 586 0004 Suggested donation £3 SEPTEMBER

Blackadder

Chester-le-Street Community Centre Wednesday 5 to Saturday 8 September 7.25pm-10pm Three hilarious episodes of Blackadder II from the hit BBC series adapted for the stage. www.dryburntheatrical workshop.co.uk 0191 388 3362. £7-£8

Mighty Wurlitzer

WHAT’S ON

Binchester Roman Fort

Mighty Wurlitzer Public Open Day

New Victoria Centre, Howden-le-Wear Saturday 8 September 10am-5pm www.netoa.org.uk 01429 274 650. Free

Heritage Open Day

Castle Eden Dene National Nature Reserve Sunday 9 September 10am-12noon A two hour ramble into the past. 0191 586 0004 Suggested donation £3

New Brandon WI

St Andrew’s Church, Brandon Tuesday 11 September 7pm-9pm Entertainment provided by mystery guest speaker.

0191 378 4781

The Great Joe Wilson

Alun Armstrong Theatre, Stanley Thursday 13 September 7.30pm The Bard of Tyneside, Joe Wilson, was able to encapsulate an epic story in a song. www.civichallstanleytickets. co.uk 01207 299 110. From £16

#daysofsummer 47

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