DCC Summer Guide 2017 by DCC Design and Print

County Durham

2017

2017 Want to have lots of fun this summer? Our summer guide is packed full of events, activities and ideas for perfect family days out. From fun at the coast and in the countryside to cycling and swimming, there’s something for everyone.

Share your family photos of fun days out in County Durham using # and look out for our ‘flavour of summer’ videos and even more ideas for things to do on the same hashtag. 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

Contact information

www.durham.gov.uk

Customer Services 03000 26 0000 Benefit Enquiries 03000 26 2000 Council Tax Enquiries 03000 26 4000 Streetscene, Highways and 03000 26 1000 Street Lighting Social Care Direct/Children’s 03000 26 79 79 First Contact Service Families Information Service 03000 26 99 95 NHS: if you need medical help 111 fast, but it isn’t a 999 emergency /durhamcouncil @DurhamCouncil /company/durham-county-council /user/DurhamCouncil /durham_county_council

How to enter our competitions Enter online at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn 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 Friday 28 July 2017. The following symbols are used in this guide: Disabled access Baby changing facilities Tearoom/café Restaurant 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. 2

Enjoy the fine weather with a visit to one of our parks - there’s loads to do throughout the summer!

Open all year round, the 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.

Once upon a time… Peter Pan inspired woodland activities, Alice in Wonderland themed crafts and a Beauty and the Beast outdoor challenge will keep little ones entertained. Saturday 29 July 10am-noon/1pm-3pm, £7.50. Book on 03000 262 899.

Fun in the mud Kids can get messy on Mud Pie Monday 7 August, 1pm-3pm, £3, or play games and explore habitats with Mud Club for 6-11 year olds, from Monday 14 to Friday 18 August, 10am-3pm, £15. Book on 03000 262 845.

Trail time Hunt around the park with a trail. Summer Storybook Trail: Saturday 22 July to Sunday 6 August. Super Sleuth Trail: Monday 7 to Sunday 20 August. Blockbuster Movie Trail: Monday 21 August to Sunday 3 September. 50p per trail worksheet available from the shop during opening hours.

Every Sunday from 23 July until 3 September Ranger fun 1pm-3pm, free. Join the rangers for an environmental activity, such as pond dipping, mini den building and bug hunts. Wednesday 23 August The trouble with bees… 10am-11.30am/1pm2.30pm, £6 per child. Find out how to help save our bees and try bee crafts and Winnie the Pooh activities. Book on 03000 262 899. Opening times and charges: The park is open Monday to Sunday 7.30am-8pm. The café, gift shop and exhibition space are open 10am-4pm. Toilets are open 7.30am-8pm. Park entry is free, parking charges apply. Hardwick Park, near Sedgefield TS21 2DN. 03000 262 899 www.durham.gov.uk/hardwickpark email hardwickpark@durham.gov.uk

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Restored last year, the park features a Heritage Centre, cafe, new play areas and miniature car track. Family events are also held in the outdoor amphitheatre. Every Sunday until 27 August Brass in the Park 1pm-3pm, free. Summer concerts from local brass bands and the International BRASS Festival finale (Saturday 15 July). Wednesday 26 July Dotty the Dragon 1.30pm, £8 (family tickets available). The story of a baby dragon trying to befriend the children in a nearby village. Age 3+. Book on 03000 266 600. Friday 18 August Peter Pan 6pm-8pm, £9 to £13.50 (family tickets and discounts available). The story of a free spirited and mischievous young boy who can fly and never grows up. Book on 03000 266 600.

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Opening times and charges: The park is open Monday to Sunday and you can drive in between 9am-5pm. The café is open between 10am-4pm. Toilets are open between 10am-6.30pm. The education room is open Monday to Friday between 10am-4pm. Park entry is free, parking charges apply. Wharton Park, Durham City DH3 3SJ. 03000 262 655 www.durham.gov.uk/whartonpark

Riverside Park Just a 20 minute walk from Chester-le-Street town centre, Riverside Park has fun for all the family from the play area and splash pad to a relaxing walk around the gardens and River Wear.

A splashing time There’s fun for all ages from toddlers to early teens with our free state of the art splash pad. The splash pad is open weekends and every day during the summer school holidays (Monday 3 July to Sunday 10 September) from 10am to 6pm.

Saturday 5 August Fake Festival Noon-11.15pm, £11 to £20. Are you ready to rock? This music event brings tributes to Queen, The Killers and The Stone Roses plus local bands for your entertainment. Book at www.fakefestivals.co.uk Friday 11 to Sunday 20 August Funfair 1pm-8pm. The funfair comes to Chester-le-Street with various rides and attractions. Opening times and charges: The park and play area is open at all times. The park centre, selling drinks and snacks, is open between 10am-4pm weekdays and 10am-7pm at weekends. Toilets are open between 8am-6.30pm weekdays and 8am-7pm weekends until 30 September. Park entry is free, parking charges apply. Riverside Park, near Durham County Cricket Club DH3 3SJ. 03000 266 447 www.durham.gov.uk/riversidepark

Whether it’s admiring the scenery, relaxing walks, taking part in activities or keeping the children entertained, there are many local parks to enjoy this summer including:

• Annfield Plain Park • Bishop Auckland town recreation ground • Blackhill and Consett Park • Coxhoe Park • Sherburn Park • Spennymoor Jubilee Park • View Lane Park, Stanley Find out more on our website

www.durham.gov.uk/ parks # 5

Durhamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s countryside is beautiful and varied. Miles of paths stretch across the county that are great 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.explorenorthpenines.org.uk/weardale

Teesdale Follow in the footsteps of Turner, Dickens and Sir Walter Scott and admire Teesdaleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s majestic waterfalls and pretty market towns. www.exploreteesdale.uk www.explorenorthpenines.org.uk/teesdale Remember to keep your dogs under control when out and about in the countryside. 15,000 sheep were killed by loose dogs last year. Statistics from SheepWatch UK

Take a walk Why not discover somewhere new this summer? Head out on one of our guided walks, accompanied by one of our knowledgeable guides. There are over 30 walks to choose from. Charges (which vary) may apply to some walks. Check out the guided walks online www.durham.gov.uk/ countryside or call 03000 264 589. Or if you are walking to improve your health - join one of our short Walk Durham led walks which take place across the county. Perfect if you want to improve your fitness. www.durham.gov.uk/walkdurham For information on cycling please see page 22.

Pack a picnic Pack a picnic and enjoy the sunshine with your friends and family. A picnic is the perfect way to get some fresh air while exploring the beauty of our picturesque county. Find a full list of parks, picnic areas and nature reserves on our website at: www.durham.gov.uk/parks or www.durham.gov.uk/countryside # 6

Heritage Coast

Durham

Durham’s Heritage Coast is one of the finest coastlines in England. Check out www.durhamheritagecoast.org for ideas for days out and walks and see the What’s On section on pages 39 to 45 for some of the summer activities.

Castle Eden Dene

Seaham

Castle Eden Dene is a magical world where yew, oak, ash and elm trees create a home for other plants and creatures.

Ever fancied trying your hand at kayaking, canoeing, climbing or paddle boarding? Opening this summer, the Seaham Harbour Marina Activity centre will have professional coaches on offer. Evening and weekend sessions will run over the summer. www.seahammarina.com

Castle Eden Dene is managed by Natural England. www.woodlandtrust.org.uk

Stroll along Nose’s Point and see our new Ps in the Pod artwork.

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

✔✔ leave nothing but footprints on the sand and know your tide times 7

Here are a few suggestions for fun days out this summer. Durham City’s panoramic skyline is one of the most stunning in Europe, dominated by the awe-inspiring Durham Cathedral, which in recent months has been crowned the “UK’s most popular Cathedral”, in a HolidayLettings poll, its third national accolade this year. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the cathedral is a shining example of Romanesque architecture and the resting place of St Bede. Whilst there, discover previously hidden spaces within the cathedral’s medieval monastic buildings at Open Treasure, a world-class exhibition experience. A rolling programme showcases treasures from the cathedral’s collections, and new for summer are the Magna Carta and the Forest Charters exhibition, and the Treasures of St Cuthbert, a permanent collection of Anglo-Saxon artefacts. 8

Uncover more intriguing stories at the World Heritage Site Visitor Centre, housed in a refurbished 19th century almshouse. Other must-see city attractions include Palace Green Library, the venue for this summer’s time-travelling Time Machines exhibition and the new DLI exhibition. Also take time out to explore the wonders of Durham University’s Oriental Museum.

history when you take a tram ride back in time at the world-famous open-air Beamish Museum, where you can enjoy the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of days gone by.

For family fun let off some steam at Adventure Valley. With over 40 activities, attractions and shows, an adventure golf course, indoor playbarns and an animal farmyard, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plenty to do whatever the weather. Durham has a fascinating industrial heritage, which is brought to life at attractions in the Vale of Durham. Uncover a rich seam of

Get back to nature with a trip to the Durham Dales and North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Head out on some of the fantastic trails - on two feet or two wheels - at picturesque Hamsterley Forest. The forest is a great place for families with picnic spots, play areas and riverside walks, as well as a Gruffalo trail. Discover the power of nature that is High Force, one of Englandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most impressive waterfalls. A woodland walk leads you to the sight of the River Tees suddenly dropping 21 metres over the Whin Sill rock into a plunge pool below. 9

In the market town of Barnard Castle, The Bowes Museum, a stunning French-style chateau, is a sight to behold. Set in parkland with an award-winning café, the museum celebrates its 125th anniversary this year and among its high-profile series of exhibitions is this summer’s Turkish Tulips. Enjoy a family day out at nearby medieval Raby Castle, set within a deer park with walled gardens. Explore the stunning interiors, take a quiet walk in the gardens and spot wildlife in the 200-acre park. Escape to the Durham Heritage Coast for outdoor fun and blow away the cobwebs with everything from walks and bike rides to kite flying and rockpooling. Be bowled over at Durham County Cricket Club with its summer holiday coaching camps. Or head to Dalton Park for a spot of retail therapy. 10

For even more ideas for great days out in Durham this summer, visit: www.thisisdurham.com

WIN a Durham VIP Pass

Win free entry or great discounts off a host of amazing attractions and experiences across the county. The Durham VIP Pass admits two people and we’ve got five to give away. Just answer the following question: Just tell us, which Durham museum is hosting the Turkish Tulips exhibition this summer? Find details of how to enter on page 2.

Get a taste of Durham

For further suggestions for fun days out and about, you can also pick up a free copy of the latest Durham Pocket Guide, the essential guide to the county packed with information on things to see and do, events and special offers.

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for the perfect place to refuel on your day out then make sure you pick up a free copy of the Durham Food & Drink Guide. The booklet contains suggestions on everything from hearty pub meals and tearoom treats, to fine dining and local produce, making it your indispensable guide to whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on the menu across Durham.

Pick up a copy of either guide at libraries and customer access points across the county or download at: www.thisisdurham.com/publications Images courtesy of Visit County Durham

Don’t worry if the summer weather isn’t quite what you hoped, there are plenty of films for the whole family on at our Gala Cinema. Films for kids this summer From 14 July Cars 3 From 28 July

Captain Underpants

From 4 August

The Emoji Movie

See www.galadurham.co.uk for times and more information.

Pop into our café whether you are seeing a show or not. Intervals Café at Gala offers the perfect place to eat and drink in style, with a wide selection of fresh salads, sandwiches and pasta as well as tasty snacks, cakes and pastries. Opening times are 10am-3pm Monday to Friday and 10am-5pm on Saturday.

To win two tickets for RENT

answer the following question: Which American city is Rent set in? Find details of how to enter on page 2. # 12

Do not miss the multi-award-winning and ground-breaking rock musical:

Rent Saturday 29 July to Saturday 5 August, 7.30pm (no show on Sunday 30 July) Gala Theatre Stage School guarantees not to disappoint with their version of this exhilarating landmark show, which tells the story of a group of impoverished young artists struggling to survive the bohemian excesses of New York’s East Village. £14.50 (£12 concession), opening night all tickets £10. Book online www.galadurham.co.uk or call 03000 266 600. Gala Theatre and Cinema, Millennium Place, Durham DH1 1WA. Box Office 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk Search galadurham @galadurham

Enjoy films, music, workshops and exhibitions or pop into the bustling café. Matinees

Family Summer Fun!

Perfect for keeping the kids entertained. 2pm, £3.

Join in themed family entertainment and activities in and around Bishop Auckland Town Hall during the summer holidays.

27 July

Moana

3 August

Storks

10 August Zootopia 17 August Kubo and the Two Strings 24 August Sing

Wednesday 2 August: Family fun Special Guest Storyteller Mrs Sue Snowdon the Lord Lieutenant of County Durham. 10.30am. Tickets: free

31 August LEGO Batman

Wednesday 16 August: Circus Circus Skills Workshop with Circurama. 1pm-3pm. Tickets: £1 (places are limited so please book in advance).

Saturday 8 July to Sunday 10 September Fairy Ring by Spacecadets Come and enjoy this magical inflatable world which is both dreamlike and tactile. Visitors are encouraged to interact and play as the exhibitions often include sound, light and smell. Wednesday 9 August Come and explore the wonders of the universe at our pop-up planetarium. 10am-2pm. Free Check out the website for more summer workshops and events taking place at the town hall. Market Place, Bishop Auckland DL14 7NP. www.bishopaucklandtownhall.org.uk 03000 269 524 Search bishoptownhall @bishoptownhall

Wednesday 23 August: Into the Woods Craft Workshop. 10.30am-11.30am. Tickets: £1 (places are limited so please book). Join the bear hunt and teddy bear’s picnic. Noon. Free. # 13

It’s a busy summer of fun at our Victorian lead mining museum Killhope.

Workshops for kids Wednesdays 2 and 16 August Kids Clay Play workshop £4. Booking essential. 11.30am and 1.30pm. Express your creativity using clay and be inspired by the nature around you. Make a woodland creature to take home to remind you of your visit.

Museum tours Sundays 6, 27 August and 10 September Belts and Wheels Tour Free, 2pm. (One hour max depending on numbers.) A guided tour of the original Armstrong wheel and the Victorian engineering and mechanisation of the Jigger and Buddle House. You must be able to walk up inclines. Please bring sensible shoes. To book call 01388 537 505 or visit www.killhope.org.uk

Wednesdays 9 and 23 August Kids Spar box workshop £10. Booking essential. 50% deposit required. 11.30am and 1.30pm. Follow in the tradition of the Victorian Weardale miners and create your very own spar box full of glittering ‘bonny bits’ to take home. Minerals and box provided. Bring and include extra minerals you have found yourself. # 14

Win a free family* ticket

to the Museum which can be used until the end of the season. Q: What did they mine at Killhope? Find details of how to enter on page 2. *Two adults and two children Open 1 April to 29 October, 10.30am-5pm Admission fee applies to all listed events £4.70-£8.60 (free to under 4s). Killhope, Near Cowshill, County Durham. 01388 537505, www.killhope.org.uk Search KillhopeMuseum @KillhopeMuseum

With over 60 railway vehicles from the national collection - a visit to Locomotion is a great day out for the family.

Join us for one of the following events this summer: Sunday 16 July Classic Car Rally - with steam train rides Come and see the classic and vintage vehicles. Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 July Stationary Engine Rally The annual rally returns. Sunday 27 and Monday 28 August ‘I Had One of Those’ pop up museum

Open from 10am-5pm daily. Parking and admission are free of charge. For more information call the museum team on 01388 777 999. Shildon, County Durham DL4 2RE.

www.nrm.org.uk/locomotion Search locomotionshildon

Win a family* ticket for a steam

train ride worth up to £12. Q: Who built the Sans Pareil steam locomotive? Find details of how to enter on page 2. *Two adults and up to three children # 15

Let your local library fuel your imagination. At our 39 libraries you get free access to:

Three quarters of a million book titles Computers with a range of software and high speed broadband internet Over 120 eMagazine titles and over 1,100 eBooks and eAudiobooks Free Wifi Borrow up to twelve books and two talking books for three weeks at a time and reserve books online through Library Online. Find locations and opening hours at www.durham.gov.uk/libraries

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Summer Reading Challenge 2017 Sign up at your local library, then read six library books of your choice to collect special rewards and a certificate when you complete the challenge all for FREE. There’s a website and an app to add to the fun too! This year the theme for the Summer Reading Challenge, which is produced by The Reading Agency, is Animal Agents, illustrated by the UK’s best-selling children’s illustrator Tony Ross. www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk

Libraries across County Durham have fun school holiday activities, to find out more visit your local library.

Saturdays between 22 July and 26 August, 2pm to 4pm Children’s Craft Sessions Clayport Library, Durham £1 per child per session, www.durham.gov.uk/libraries

Durham Light Infantry (DLI) Regiment 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.

DLI collection gallery Learn more about the DLI thanks to our new, free gallery, a partnership with Durham University. Courage, Comrades, Community at Durham Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Palace Green Library, charts the distinguished role of the regiment in more than 200 years of conflict across the globe. Open: 10am-4.45pm, Tuesday to Sunday and noon-4.45pm on Mondays.

DLI research, study and education Why not visit our research and study centre based in Sevenhills, Spennymoor? Items available include uniforms, hats, buttons, weapons and ammunition. The research and study area is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10am-3pm. Volunteers are on hand to help. Call 03000 266 631 to book.

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.

Medal collection Medals are also held at Palace Green Library. They are not on display, but you can request to look at items from the collection. # 20

Binchester Roman Fort gives you an insight into what life was like for the Romans in County Durham. Explore the impressive remains of a Roman bath house with its amazing 1,700 year-old under floor heating system. Find out why taking a bath in Roman times was about more than just getting clean! Walk in the footsteps of the soldiers around the remains of the Commander’s House and find the beast of Binchester among the ruins.

Binchester Roman Festival Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 July, 11am-4pm

Roma Antiqua will be repelling attacks by the enemies of Rome. Demonstrations include archery, slingstaffs and the firing of artillery catapult - the ballista. Adult £5, Concession £4, Child (5-16) £3, under 4s free.

Opening times and charges: July/August 10am-5pm September 11am-5pm Last admission 4.30pm Non-event day prices: Adult £3, Concession £2, Child £1.50, under 4s free. Binchester Roman Fort, Bishop Auckland, DL14 8DJ. 01388 663 089 www.durham.gov.uk/binchester email archaeology@durham.gov.uk except excavations assistance dogs only

Our Durham County Record Office at County Hall, holds over five miles of archives that reflect the life and work of the people of County Durham and Darlington over the past 900 years. They are the written records of people’s day-to-day lives and provide a unique access to our past. Make an appointment to view the records for free or come to one of our regular activities and events held throughout the year. Call 03000 267 619 or visit www.durhamrecordoffice.org.uk for more information.

Interested in your family history? Monday 11 September 6pm-8pm Tracing 20th Century Relatives Session aimed at those happy with the research basics, £10.

Tuesday 12, 19, 26 September 6pm-8pm Beginners’ Family History Course £30 per course. 21

Whether you’re new to cycling or a seasoned pro, you prefer road or off road - saddle up for some fun! Durham has almost 750kms of railway paths, bridleways and byways across the county offering excellent opportunities for a cycling day out. Find route suggestions at www.thisisdurham.com and www.sustrans.org.uk or contact pedalpower@durham.gov.uk for a selection of free maps including Bike Bowes and The Locomotion Way.

If off road is your choice… For mountain biking enthusiasts, Hamsterley Forest is a must 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 and Darlington. What’s more, they have a selection of bikes so you won’t have to worry about bringing your own. www.gatewaywheelers.org.uk # 22

New to cycling, need to brush up your skills or want to get healthier? Our Cycle Durham programme hosts free weekly led cycle rides suitable for beginners and intermediate level cyclists. They can even lend you a free bike and a helmet for the session. If you haven’t cycled much, or you’re out of practice, free back on your bike courses are available to boost your riding skills and confidence. Summer evening cycle rides - every Thursday throughout the summer, 6pm-8pm from Auckland Castle and 6pm-7.30pm from Riverside Sports Complex Chester-le-Street. Bikes and helmets provided free if needed. You must be over 16 to take part. Booking essential. Contact us on 03000 266 555.

Travelling into Durham City? Make it easy with Park and Ride! There are three Park and Ride sites serving the city centre with direct buses every 10 minutes. Monday to Saturday 7am-7pm. The map below will help plan your visit and find the most convenient site for you.

The standard fare is just ÂŁ2 per person and includes all day travel on Park and Ride and the Cathedral Bus which links Durham Railway Station, the coach park, city centre, market place and Durham Cathedral and Castle. Concessions are available. More information can be found at www.durham.gov.uk/parkandride

Working to improve our roads and footpaths Throughout the summer youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see us around the county working to improve conditions on our roads and footpaths. Before you head out check www.durham.gov.uk/traffic for the latest information.

If you need help in planning a journey by public transport check out your choices at

www.travelinenortheast.info 0871 200 22 33

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County Durham has a lot to offer for families and individuals with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Here’s a selection of what’s on offer this summer. For children and young people

TIN Arts

Short breaks

TIN Arts is an inclusive dance organisation based in Durham City. They offer dance and wider performing arts activities for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities in schools, community settings and their own dance space. Includfest, a two-day festival of fun with fully accessible activities at Wharton Park on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 September. www.tinarts.co.uk

There are a number of specialist providers that offer SEND short break activities: Durham Area Disability Leisure Group (DADLG) offers a countywide service. 07592 366 454 Gateway North East covers the Durham Dales 0191 526 3112 MAIN covers Sedgefield 07739 638 337 Integrating Children covers Chester-le-Street and Durham 07914 376 228 Sport Works covers Derwentside 0191 580 0120 Find out more at www.countydurhamfamilies.info/localoffer

North East Autism Society The North East Autism Society provides various activities and clubs as well as a weekly get together for toddlers. The groups are free for parents/carers of children under five with autism. Sessions take place in Newton Aycliffe, Stanley and Washington - find out more at www.ne-as.org.uk

Parks and play areas A two-year £1.75million investment programme is providing young people with high quality, safe and accessible play equipment across the county. 45 areas have been, or are in the process of being, developed. More information: www.durham.gov.uk/playspacerefurb # 24

Brazilian Carnival themed summer festival 11 July to 10 August Our Pathways team is hosting a Brazilian carnival themed summer festival for people with complex or specialist care needs (age 16+). The festival promises a Brazilian rain forest, a Grand Masquerade Ball and a Mardi Gras with street dancers and entertainment from Jack Drum’s Samba Band.

DisabledGo The DisabledGo website has the latest information on thousands of accessible venues across the UK and Ireland. If you’re heading out - find details of restaurants, cinemas, theatres and more to help plan your trip. www.disabledgo.com

Find out more in the ‘What’s on’ section at www.countydurhamfamilies.info or to reserve a place call 03000 263543.

Locate Locate can help you find leisure and community activities across the County suitable for all abilities. These include sports or fitness activities, clubs and groups. Find out more in the ‘getting out and about’ section at www.durhamlocate.org.uk

Spennymoor Leisure Centre multi-sensory room Using all of your senses, step into an oasis of calm and discover a world that changes with every visit including bubble tubes, sound-light floor, projectors and a vibration waterbed. Sessions are available for pre-school children, children and adults with special educational needs or disabilities. Book now on 03000 261 161. # 25

Swimming is fun and healthy and there are activities to suit the whole family in our pools this summer.

New for 2017 We’ve some new, or updated, family activities in our pools. Session dates, times and locations are on our website at www.durham.gov.uk/swimming

Adult and child small pool fun 30 minutes of instructor led fun games followed by 30 minutes free play. For adults and children aged 2-6 years. Price £4 for 1 adult and 1 child plus £1 additional child. Ratio of one adult for every two children aged 0-7 years.

Aquafun Bounce, boing and slide on inflatables, floats and other aqua toys. Splashtastic fun for families and young people.

And for aspiring young lifeguards Rookies taster sessions.

Details of swimming pools and more holiday activities can be found on pages 27 to 36. #

Try swimming Boost your child’s swimming progress with a crash course during the holidays. Swimming crash courses only £23 per week. www.durham.gov.uk/swimming

If you’re looking for fun things to do this summer, look no further than our jam-packed activities round-up. From making a splash in the pool to roller skating and gymnastics, there’s loads to keep youngsters active and entertained over the holidays. 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 Our summer holiday programme runs from 28 July to 25 August.

Table Tennis Friday 28 July, Friday 11and Friday 25 August 10.15am-11.15am | 8-11 years | £2 Junior Metafit Every Wednesday 3.15pm-4.15pm | 8-14 years | £2

Soft Play session Monday to Thursday 9am-11.30am and 3pm4.30pm | 0-4 years | £1 under 1 year | £1.50 over 1 year

Junior Functional Training Every Friday 4.30pm-5.15pm | 11-14 years | £2

Inflatable session Every Monday 3.15pm-4.15pm | 4-11 years | £1 | parental supervision required

Dodgeball Every Thursday 9.15am-10.15am | 5-8 years | £1.60

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

Brandon Junior Boxing Club Holiday Camps Monday 7 and Monday 14 August 9am-noon | 5+ | £5 per camp Come along and learn basic boxing skills while keeping fit and having fun over the summer with Brandon Boxing Club’s qualified coaches. Call 0796 8733342 # 27

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

Snorkelling Tuesday 29 August 11am-noon | £5

Our summer holiday programme runs from 24 July to 3 September.

Chester-le-Street Leisure Centre Burns Green, Chester-le-Street, DH3 3QH 03000 266 444 www.durham.gov.uk/ clsleisurecentre Our summer holiday programme runs from 24 July to 18 August.

Inflatable Saturday 22, Monday 24, Friday 28, Monday 31 July, Friday 4, Saturday 5, Monday 7, Friday 11, Monday 14, Friday 18, Saturday 19, Monday 21, Friday 25 August, Friday 1 and Saturday 2 September 1.30pm-2.30pm | 8+ | £2.80 Bootcamp Monday 24 July, Tuesdays 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 August Noon-12.45pm | 14-16 | £2

Rafts and Floats Wednesday 26, Saturday 29 July, Wednesday 2, Wednesday 9, Saturday 12, Wednesday 16, Wednesday 23, Saturday 26, Wednesday 30 August, Tuesday 26 September 1.30pm-2.30pm | 8+ | £2.80 Snorkelling Monday 31 July 1.30pm-2.30pm | 8+ | £2.60 Monday 7 and Monday 21 August 9.45am-10.45am | £5 Metafit Thursdays 27 July, 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 August Noon-12.45pm | 14-16 | £2 Volleyball/Water Polo Wednesday 16 August 10.45am-11.45am | £5 Pool Party Friday 1 September 1.30pm-2.30pm | 8+ | free

Shildon-Sunnydale Leisure Centre Middridge Lane, Shildon, DL4 2EP 03000 266 448 www.durham.gov.uk/ shildonsunnydale leisurecentre Our summer holiday programme runs from Thursday 10 August to Thursday 31 August.

Spectrum Artistic Roller Skating Club - Junior Roller Boot Camps Thursdays 3, 17, 24 and 31 August 10am-3pm | £15 per day Bring a packed lunch. To book a place call 07891 461958 Spectrum Roller Skating Club Roller Disco Thursdays 3, 17, 24 and 31 August 3pm-4pm | £3 To book a place call 07891 461958

Gymnastics Camp Wednesday 2 and Wednesday 16 August 1pm-4pm | 5+ | £9

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

Trampoline Camp Tuesday 25 July 1pm-4pm | 5+ | £9 Zorb Football Wednesday 26 July, Monday 7 and Tuesday 29 August 1pm-3pm | 11+ | £10 Rock Solid Thursdays 27 July, 3 and 31 August 4pm-5.30pm | 4 to 17yrs | £5

Bishop Auckland Table Tennis Club, Holiday Taster Session Tuesday 8 August 10am-11am | £2 To book a place call 07411 018856

Mash Up Tuesday 1, Monday 21 and Thursday 31 August 1pm-4pm | 5+ | £10 Trampoline, climbing and inflatable session (Under 8s must be accompanied for inflatable session)

Shildon Junior Multi Skills Every Thursday 4.30pm-5.30pm | 5yrs+ | £2

Pre-school gymnastics Wednesday 2 and Wednesday 16 August 11am-noon | 3-4 years | £4

Football Camp Wednesday 2 and Wednesday 16 August 1pm-4pm | 5 to 11yrs | £6 Gymnastics Camp Tuesday 22, Wednesday 23 and Thursday 24 August 10am-4pm | 5+ | £78 Jolly Jungles is available 9am-10am for no extra cost but must be booked in advance. Trampoline Camp Monday 21 August 2pm-5pm | 5+ | £9 Teesdale Modern Pentathlon Club (holiday open taster session) Thursdays 27 July, 3, 24 and 31 August 4.45pm-7pm | £10 | Includes laser shoot | 0750 1125225 Pool Inflatable sessions Every Monday to Friday 3pm-4pm plus Saturday and Sunday 11am-noon | £2.80

# 29

Spennymoor Leisure Centre

Woodhouse Close Leisure Centre Woodhouse Lane, Bishop Auckland, DL14 6JX 03000 261 322 www.durham.gov.uk/ woodhousecloseleisure complex Our summer holiday programme runs from Monday 31 July to Friday 25 August.

Otters weekly holiday club Monday 31 July to Friday 1 September 8.30am-3.30pm | 8+ | £100 per week Holiday camps, swimming, sports and organised trips. Please call to book a place 03000 261 322 Aqua Crash Courses Monday 7 to Friday 11 August, Monday 14 to Friday 18 August and Monday 21 to Friday 25 August 8.30am-9am, 3-4yrs | 9am-9.30am, 5+ | £23 Pool Aqua Fun Every day 1pm-3pm | £2.80 # 30

High Street, Spennymoor, DL16 6DB 03000 261 161 www.durham.gov.uk/ spennymoorleisurecentre Our summer holiday programme runs from Saturday 22 July to Sunday 3 September (excluding bank holidays).

Waves, Slide, Splash Saturday 22 July to Sunday 3 September Monday to Friday 10.30am3.30pm and Saturday and Sunday 10am-3.30pm | all ages | £2.80-£4.20 Young Lifestyles - fitness suite Saturday 22 July to Sunday 3 September Monday to Friday 7.30am6pm and Saturday and Sunday 7.30am-5pm | 11-15yrs | £12 per month Adult and Child Pool Fun Mondays and Tuesdays 24 July to 21 August 9am-10am | 2-6yrs | water confidence and fun | £4

Cricket Tuesdays 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 August 9.30am-noon | 8-12yrs | £5 | booking required Football Tuesdays 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 August 1pm-3.30pm | 8-12yrs | £5 | booking required Baby Sensory Tuesdays 25 July, 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 August 11.30am-12.30pm | under 5s | £4 Splash Tots Wednesdays and Fridays between 26 July and 1 September 9am-10.30am Wednesdays and 9.15am-10am Fridays | 0-5yrs | £4 Toddler Time Wednesdays and Fridays between 26 July and 1 September 10am to11.30am | 0-5yrs | £2.50 1st child, £1 per additional child Art Zone Thursdays 27 July to 31 August 1pm-2.30pm | 4+ | £3 Snorkelling Wednesdays 2, 9 and 16 August 10am-10.30am | 7+ | Confident swimmers over 25m only | £4 | booking required

Rookie Lifeguard Wednesday 26 July and 23, 30 August 9.30am-10.30am | 7+ | confident swimmers over 25m only | £4 | booking required

Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre

Splashability Sundays between 23 July and 3 September 4pm-5pm | all ages | £2.50 *carers free

Our summer holiday programme runs from 22 July to 3 September (excluding bank holidays).

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

Young Lifestyles fitness suite Saturday 22 July to Sunday 3 September Monday to Friday 7.30am6pm and Saturday and Sunday 8am-5pm | 11-15yrs | £12 per month General Swim 22 July to 3 September Mondays and Wednesdays 11am-4pm Tuesdays and Thursdays 11am-2.30pm Fridays noon-4pm Saturdays 9am-1.30pm Sundays 9.30am-2pm All ages | £2.80-£4.20

Swimming Crash Courses Monday to Thursday 24 July to 31 August 2pm-2.30pm stage one, | 2.30pm-3pm stage two | 4+ | £23 | booking required Adult and Child Small Pool Fun Tuesdays 25 July to 29 August 10am-11am | 2-6yrs | water confidence and fun | £4 Aqua Fun Tuesdays and Thursdays between 25 July and Saturday 2 September 2.30pm-3.30pm Saturdays 1.30pm-3pm 8-16yrs | £2.80 Rookie Lifeguard Wednesdays between 26 July and 30 August 2pm-3pm | 7+ | confident swimmer, 25m | £4 | booking required Splash Tots Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays between 28 July and 3 September 10am-11am Tuesdays, 11am-noon Fridays and 9am-10.30am Sundays | 0-5yrs | £4 # 31

# 32

Riverside Leisure Complex Riverside South, Chester-le-Street, DH3 3SJ 03000 266 477 www.durham.gov.uk/ riversideleisurecomplex Our summer holiday programme runs from 28 July to 1 September

Bike display team Friday 28 July and Friday 1 September 10am-3pm Sports club taster sessions Friday August 4 10am-3pm Family fun day Friday 11 and 18 August 10am-3pm Climbing wall Friday 25 August 10am-3pm

FREE childcare Fr Sep om tem b 2017 er

for

working parents of 3 and 4 year olds for up to 30 hours a week

Find out if you are eligible at www.durham.gov.uk/earlyyears

A fun summer with Leisureworks Activity Camps Try lots of different activities including football, tennis, dodgeball, swimming and arts and crafts. £10 per day, £40 for the week. 10am to 3pm. Ages 6 to 12 years. 31 July - 4 August at Consett Leisure Centre 7 August - 11 August at The Louisa Centre 14 August - 18 August at Consett Leisure Centre 21 August - 25 August at The Louisa Centre

Football Camp An action packed course full of football and fustal on our 4G pitch. Learn techniques, play matches and meet new friends. £10 per day, £40 for the week. Ages 6 to 12 years. 7 August - 11 August at Consett Leisure Centre 21 August - 25 August at Consett Leisure Centre

Soccer Tiny Tots

A football coaching session for children aged 18 months to 4 years. £3 per session. Every Friday between 28 July and 1 September 10am - 10.45am at The Louisa Centre 2pm - 2.45pm at Consett Leisure Centre

Soccer Tots

A fun football session teaching the basic techniques of football with a professional coach. For children aged 4 to 5 years. £3 per session. 11am - 11.45am at The Louisa Centre 1pm - 1.45pm at Consett Leisure Centre

Consett Leisure Centre - 01207 218 151 The Louisa Centre - 01207 218 877

Summer Activity Camps Between 31 July and 18 August

Consett Leisure Centre Mondays to Fridays, Aquaslide, 1.30pm to 3.30pm Mondays to Fridays, Rafts and Floats, 1.30pm to 2.30pm The Louisa Centre Wednesdays, Inflatable or rafts, 2.30pm to 3.30pm

Consett Leisure Centre Fun Zone Slides, bouncy castle and lots of toys, every Tuesday between 10am and 3pm between 25 July and 29 August.

For lots more, visit www.leisureworks.net

Indoor rock climbing at Durham Climbing Centre Family Fun Day Saturday 9 July

Splashtastic Fun

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

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Peterlee Leisure Centre St Cuthbert’s Way, Peterlee SR8 1AF 0191 586 2400 www.1life.co.uk Our summer holiday programme runs from Monday 24 July to Sunday September 3. Closed Bank Holiday Monday 28 August.

Fun in the pool Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays between 25 July and 1 September 1pm-2.30pm Inflatable fun with a new giant slide Fun and floats sessions Mondays and Thursdays between 24 July and 31 August 2pm-3.30pm Adult and Child Small Pool Fun Wednesdays between 26 July and 30 August 10am-11am Saturdays between 29 July and 2 September 3pm-4pm For adults and children between 6 months and 6 years | 30 minutes instructor led fun followed by 30 minutes free play | £4 for adult and the child plus £1 for an additional child 36

Learn to swim crash courses Stage 1 and 2 Mondays and Fridays throughout holidays 9am-9.30am Stage 3 and 4 Mondays and Fridays throughout holidays 9.30am-10am Stage 5 Tuesdays to Thursdays throughout the holidays 10.30am-11am £17.50 for each week, week 6 £14

Multi Sports Activity Camp Mondays to Fridays throughout the holidays 10am-3pm | dodgeball, football, gymnastics, art, crafts and games | 4+ years | £8 per day or £35 for the week (£30 in week 6 of holidays) Check the website for special offers on squash, table tennis, badminton and 5 a side and details of junior gym sessions. www.1life.co.uk

Special Offers Under 16’s Weekly Swim Pass £5 | Family Swim session £8 (2 Adults, 2 Children) Bouncy castle fun drop-in session Tuesdays to Thursdays throughout the holidays 10am-noon | £2 | under 8s Football coaching Mondays between 24 July and 21 August and Fridays between 28 July and 18 August 10am-11am | £3 | 4-8 years

Please see www.1life.co.uk for details of what’s happening throughout the summer at Seaham Leisure Centre.

Take a tour of one of the county’s historical treasures for free as part of Heritage Open Days.

7 to 10 September www.heritageopendays.org.uk

Cold water shock can kill. If the weather’s hot and you’re thinking about swimming in a river, or any other water, please make sure you know what the dangers are. Watch a video and find out more at

www.durham.gov.uk/dyingtobecool

July to September

The Witham Barnard Castle Comedy stars Jo Caulfield and Carl Hutchinson are just two of the stars to take to the stage at The Witham this summer. Craft sessions, films, workshops and live music also on the bill. www.thewitham.org.uk 01833 631 107

Win family tickets

to see Cinderella on 24 August. Q: In which town is The Witham located? Find details of how to enter on page 2.

Until 3 September Time Machines, The Past, The Future and How Stories take us there Palace Green Library, Durham University See the original manuscript from HG Wells Time Machine, single admission price for multiple visits, www.dur.ac.uk/palace.green Until Saturday 30 September, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 1pm until 5pm Chuck Close Tapestries St Cuthbert’s Chapel, Ushaw College, Durham Extraordinary and dramatic black and white portrait tapestries including Barack Obama by American hyper-realist artist Chuck Close, free, www.ushaw.org

Every other Sunday, 9am Durham Rambling Club Coach trips to the best walks in the area, £10, info@ durhamramblingclub.org.uk Every third Sunday, 10am to 3pm Stanhope Farmers’ Market St Thomas Church Hall, Stanhope Food and craft stalls, free. Saturday 15 July, 11am to 5pm Raby Castle Gardens Raby Castle, Teesdale Open as part of National Gardens Scheme with all money going to charity, £3 to £7. Saturday 15 July, 10am to 3pm Buskers Day Bishop Auckland Market Place and Newgate Street Free, www.bishopauckland townteam.org # 39

The Bowes Museum Barnard Castle

The museum celebrates its 125th anniversary this year. Join in the fun with a host of talks, workshops and arts and crafts sessions for all the family. Follow a trail of tulips throughout the museum this summer as part of the Turkish Tulips exhibition.

Workshops, 10.30am-4pm Jewellery Wednesday 14 August Robot themed crafts Friday 18 August Printing Thursday 24 August Romans themed crafts Wednesday 30 August Tudor themed crafts Thursday 31 August Free for children when accompanied by a paying adult.

Wednesday 16 August, 10am to 11.30am and 1pm to 3pm Teddy Bear’s Picnic and Crafts Under 5s, £2.50 per child, accompanying adults free. Thursday 17 August, 10.30am to noon and 1.30pm to 3pm Clock decorating workshop 5+, £4.50 per child, accompanying adult free. # 40

Wednesday 23 August, 10.30am to 4pm Picnic in the gardens Free. Tuesday 29 August, 10am to noon and 1.30pm to 3.30pm Bronze Age and Iron Age themed crafts 5+, £4.50 per child, accompanying adult free. www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk 01388 690606

A family pass to The Bowes Museum To be in with a chance of winning tell us how many years the museum is celebrating this year. Find details of how to enter on page 2.

Saturday 15 July, 10.30am to noon History Walk Durham Cathedral Family walk through woodlands and riverbanks, £3 per child, education@durhamcathedral.co.uk or call 0191 374 4070. Friday 21 July, 7pm to 11pm Royal British Legion Rock and Roll fundraiser evening St John’s Hall, Meadowfield, Durham All proceeds to go towards hall refurbishment, £3. Sunday 23 July, 2.30pm to 5.30pm Mighty Wurlitzer Best of all Worlds concert Howden-le-Wear, Crook £8, www.netoa.org.uk, tickets: 01388 762467. Wednesday 26 July, 1pm to 3pm Festival of Archaeology - Chinese Tombs Durham University Oriental Museum Drop-in activity for children aged 5-11years. Children must be accompanied by an adult, £5, www.dur.ac.uk/orientalmuseum Thursday 27 July, 10.30am to 4pm Marco’s Circus Workshop Durham University Botanic Garden Learn circus tricks in this fun workshop, £1.50 to £4, www.dur.ac.uk/botanic.garden/whatson

Saturday 22 July until Sunday 3 September, 10am to 5pm, Summer Fun at the Farm Down at the Farm, Houghton-le-Spring Farmyard fun for little ones, £5.75 to £6.25, www.downatthefarm.co.uk Friday 28 July, 1pm to 3pm Rock Pool Ramble Meet at Seaham Hall Car Park Free, children must be accompanied by an adult, booking essential, www.durhamwt.com Friday 28 July, 1pm to 4pm Festival of Archaeology - Dinky Dig Durham University Oriental Museum Explore objects found in ancient Chinese tombs. Drop-in activity for children aged 5-11 years, must be accompanied by an adult, 75p to £1.50, www.dur.ac.uk/oriental.museum Saturday 29 July, 8pm to 11pm Saturday Night Dance with Kirkcowan Sound Castleside Village Hall £5 on door, contact David Dixon 01207 509253. Friday 28 July, 11am to 3pm Cartas and Charters Family Fun Friday Durham Cathedral Family craft activities linked to the Magna Carta and the Forest Charters exhibition, free with an Open Treasure admission, www.durhamcathedral.co.uk # 41

Saturday 29 to Monday 31 July, 10am to 5pm Once Upon a Time St Philip and St James Church, Tow Law Floral extravaganza, flowers portraying well-known nursery rhymes, £2. Tuesday 1 to Saturday 26 August, Tuesdays to Saturdays, 11am to 3pm, (Saturdays 10am to 4pm) Tidelines by Jac Howard Art Block, Church Street, Seaham Free. Friday 4 August, 6.30pm Photography Evening Durham Cathedral A special opportunity to spend time in the cathedral with your camera, £10 per camera, events@durhamcathedral.co.uk, 0191 386 4266. Friday 4 August, 10.30am to 12.30pm Autism friendly activity - Soaring Sculptures Oriental Museum, Durham Children with autism, learning or sensory impairments and their families are invited to take part in our quiet-time craft activities: create your own 3D sculpture, 75p to £1.50, www.dur.ac.uk/oriental.museum Saturday 5 August, 12.30pm to 11.15pm Fake Festival Riverside Park, Chester-le-Street Tribute rock bands from Queen to The Stone Roses, £9 to £25, Family £43 to £51, www.fakefestivals.co.uk Saturday 5 August and Monday 28 August, 1pm to 4.30pm Family Bushcrafts Hamsterley Forest Build a shelter, light a fire, cook a meal, make something to take away with Bruce Ferguson, £30 per family (2-4 people), £10 per additional person, over fives only, www.natureholiday.co.uk # 42

Thursday 10 August, 10am to 4pm Crazy Creatures Durham University Botanic Garden Animal encounters with snakes, spiders, mice and frogs, £1.50 to £4, www.dur.ac.uk/botanic.garden/whatson Thursday 10 August, 9.45am to 12.15pm Mirror Workshop Durham Dales Centre, Stanhope Mirror making with fabric, £26 per person. Book a place via www.curiously-contrary.co.uk Saturday 12 August, 10am to 4pm and Sunday 13 August, 12.30pm to 4pm Anglo-Saxon Family Fun Weekend The College Green, Durham Cathedral Celebrate the launch of the treasures of St Cuthbert exhibition, free, www.durhamcathedral.co.uk Saturday 12 August, 10.30am to noon History Walk Durham Cathedral Family walk along woodlands and riverbanks, £3 and accompanying children free, events@durhamcathedral.co.uk, 0191 386 4266. Saturday 12 August, 10am to 3pm Buskers Day Bishop Auckland Market Place and Newgate Street Free, www.bishopaucklandtownteam.org

Beamish

www.beamish.org.uk

There’s plenty to do at Beamish this summer! Saturday 22 July to Wednesday 30 August, 10am to 5pm Summer of Fun Fun activities for all the family, free with usual admission charge. Thursday 31 August to Sunday 3 September, 10am to 5pm Dig for Victory Help the war effort at our 1940s farm and enjoy a dance with the swing band, free with usual admission price. To win a Beamish family day Saturday 9 and Sunday ticket for up to four people 10 September, (valid to 29 October) 10am to 5pm answer the following question: Leek Show If you visit the farm at Beamish, what decade will you find yourself in? Free with usual museum admission charge. Find details of how to enter on page 2. Monday 14 August, 10.30am to 12.30pm, Green Man Clay Tile Workshop Education Centre, Durham Cathedral Work with a professional tiler to create a decorative 3D clay tile, £20 per person, education@durhamcathedral.co.uk, 0191 374 4070. Monday 14 August, 1.30pm to 2.45pm The Historic Architecture of Durham Cathedral Durham Cathedral Join conservator Charlie Slade as he shares his insights into the cathedral, £5, education@durhamcathedral.co.uk, 0191 374 4070. Wednesday 16 and Thursday 31 August, 9.45am to 12.15pm Fairy House Workshop Durham Dales Centre, Stanhope Make a fairy house, £26 per person. Book a place via www.curiously-contrary.co.uk

Saturday 19 August, 7.30pm All That Jazz by the Friends of Durham Cathedral Durham Cathedral An evening of jazz with Maureen Hall and Rendezvous, 7.30pm, £12, 03000 266 600. Saturday 19 August, 10am to noon Dementia Support Café St Catherine’s Church, Crook Music, refreshments and activities for Dementia sufferers and their families, free, 07419 329952. Thursday 24 August, 9.45am to 12.15pm Notebook Workshop Durham Dales Centre, Stanhope Make a notebook, £25 per person. Book a place via www.curiously-contrary.co.uk Friday 25 August, 10am to 4pm New Car Show Bishop Auckland Market Place Free, www.bishopaucklandtownteam.org # 43

Friday 25 to Sunday 27 August Jazz festival Ushaw College Friday 6pm to 10.30pm, Saturday 11am to 10.30pm, Sunday 1pm to late, £5 to £10. Sunday 27 to Tuesday 29 August, 10am to 5pm Peter Pan Crook Hall and Gardens Fun games and a treasure hunt, £5 to £7.50, www.crookhallandgardens.co.uk Monday 28 August, 10.40 to 16.20 Driver for a fiver Weardale Railway, Stanhope Station Drive the Sentinal Shunter at Stanhope Station alongside Platform two for £5, 07821 102803. Monday 28 August, from 10am Annual Flower and Vegetable Show Blackhall Community Centre, Blackhall Colliery Free. Tuesday 29 August, 1pm to 3pm Low Barns Wild Kite Making Low Barns Nature Reserve, Witton-le-Wear £3 per child, booking essential, www.durhamwt.com/events Thursday 31 August, 7pm Musical Diversity Flower Show preview evening St Catherine’s Church, Crook Includes buffet, £5.

Friday 1 September, 7pm Suzanne Gill, Mediumship Alun Armstrong Theatre, Civic Hall, Stanley £10 to £12, www.civichallstanley.co.uk Friday 1 and Saturday 2 September, 10am to 4pm, Sunday 3 September, 1pm until 5pm Flower Festival St Catherine’s Church, Crook £3 to £5 under 14s free. Wednesday 6 to Saturday 9 September Dryburn Theatrical Workshop’s production of The Vicar of Dibley Chester-le-Street Community Centre £7 to £8, www.dryburmtheatricalworkshop.co.uk Thursday 7 September, 6.30pm to 9.30pm Pod Picnic No.42 Market Place, Bishop Auckland Inspiring talks for creative people by creative people, bring refreshments and a picnic blanket, free, bookings@aucklandcastle.org Friday 8 September, 7pm For One Night Only Gala Evening Alun Armstrong Theatre, Civic Hall, Stanley An evening of entertainment from local groups, £10, www.civichall stanley.co.uk #

Saturday 9 September, 10am to 5pm Mighty Wurlitzer Open Day Howden-le-Wear, Crook Free, www.netoa.org.uk Saturday 9 September, 10am to noon Dementia Support Café St Catherine’s Church, Crook Music, refreshments and activities for Dementia sufferers and their families, free, 07419 329952. Sunday 10 September, 1pm to 4.30pm Music in the Gardens Old Durham Gardens, Durham City Traditional, modern, blues and jazz music, bring a rug, parking available at Maiden Castle Sports Centre, free, www.olddurhamgardens.co.uk

Sunday 10 September, 1.30pm to 4.30pm Seasonal wild food, mushrooms, fruit, nuts and roots Hamsterley Forrest Join experienced forager Bruce Ferguson on an exploration of the wild food that comes into season in the autumn. 13+, must be accompanied by an adult, £15, www.natureholiday.co.uk From Monday 11 September, 6.15pm to 7.15pm Durham City Uke Group Alington House, North Bailey, Durham Ten week course for absolute beginners, £54 per person, book a place on 07939 166806.

Agricultural show dates County Durham has a rich history of traditional agricultural shows, get set for some fantastic displays at this year’s events. Saturday 26 August Weardale (St John’s Chapel) www.weardale-show.co.uk Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 September Wolsingham £3 to £9. www.wolsinghamshow.co.uk Saturday 9 September Bowes Village £2 to £5, parking £5. www.bowesshow.org.uk

Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 September Stanhope, Weardale £3 to £7, parking £2. www.stanhopeshow.com Thursday 14 to Sunday 17 September Beamish Museum Free with usual museum admission charge, www.beamish.org.uk # 45

Join us for Gala’s spectacular family pantomime.

Gala Theatre’s Spectacular Family Pantomime

23 November – 6 January

Written and Directed by Neil Armstrong and Paul Hartley

£6–£17

Box Office: 03000 266 600 Book online: www.galadurham.co.uk

For under 5s... Win a family ticket to see Gala’s brand new Christmas production. Q: Who was naughty in Mrs Claus’ kitchen?

The naughty gingerbread man runs amok in Mrs Claus’ Kitchen in this brand new Christmas production from Gala Theatre.

Find details of how to enter on page 2.

4 December – 30 December £6.50–£7.50 Box Office: 03000 266 600 Book online: www.galadurham.co.uk

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