Durham & Tees Valley 2016

Stockton

- welcomes you

Have you visited the brand new Stockton High Street?

Featuring a stunning central garden, stylish water feature, unique lighting installations and excellent greenery creating a perfect place to sit and relax as you enjoy the hustle and bustle of this busy market town.

Prefer to shop 'til you drop? You couldn’t ask for more, with over 100 independent shops, a 700 year old iconic market, 2 modern shopping centres and a packed programme of specialist markets, we really do have something to suit everyone’s retail needs.

Fancy something to do? Jaw dropping shows, community-filled carnivals, cultural outings and musical marvels are just some of the captivating delights you can enjoy all year round in Stockton Town Centre, combine them with some fabulous food or evening entertainment and you’re in for a great time.

We're bringing our artwork outside! Be sure to spare time to admire the public art pieces that are springing up all over town.

An international stage. Stockton High Street is the home of Stockton International Riverside Festival (SIRF) a four day event packed with weird and wonderful performances. In 2016 the High Street will host international sports stars as it becomes a race track as part of the 2016 British Cycling National Road Race Championships.

Discover our history? From architecture to railways and myths to inventions, there's lots to discover in our historic yards and buildings.

Want to know a secret? The tranquil River Tees is so close to Stockton High Street you can see it. A pleasure to be shared all year round, a hive of activity during the day, and then magically lit for you to relax and enjoy after sunset.

Find out more:

www.rediscoverstockton.co.uk

rediscoverstockton@stockton.gov.uk

01642 528130

Rediscover Stockton Shop

134b High Street

Stockton

FUTURE PLANS FOR AUCKLAND CASTLE

When Auckland Castle reopens in 2018, it will have been restored and redeveloped to create a visitor attraction of the highest quality and experience. State Rooms will be restored to their Georgian splendour and the extraordinary art collection represented. The stories of the Prince Bishops will be placed centre stage whilst a new extension will house The Faith Gallery. The project will also include the re-visioning of our 17th Century Walled Garden, a new Welcome Building and a new Gallery and Institute of Spanish Art and Culture.

To follow the redevelopments sign-up to our e-newsletter at aucklandcastle.org

Monday – Sunday 10am-5pm. Last admission 4pm. Closed Tuesdays. Adults £6 Under 16’s Free

aucklandcastle.org

When

Whatever

Fine

BINCHESTER ROMAN FORT

Binchester, or Vinovia to give it its Latin name, was the largest Roman fort in County Durham and was accompanied by a very extensive civil settlement.

It was one of a chain of forts guarding the main north-south Roman road east of the Pennines (known in later times as Dere Street) and was positioned so as to control the crossing of the River Wear. The earliest fort built c. AD 79 was more than 7 hectares in size, capable of housing a battle-group two legionary cohorts and one or more units of auxiliary cavalry. The later fort built c AD 158 was 4 hectares in size and was occupied by cavalry units including one from Spain.

Visible on the site today are the remains of part of the commanding officer’s residence including an attached bath-building. The latter was first exposed in part in 1815 but was not fully revealed until excavations took place in the 1970s and 1980s. The bath-building features one of the best preserved examples of a Roman hypocaust (underfloor heating system) in the whole of Britain.

Opening dates and times:

The new campaign of excavation concluded in 2015. The feasibility of leaving some of the more impressive building remains on public view is being investigated at the time of writing (October 2015) as is the possible upgrading of the visitor facilities. Further information will be available on the Binchester web page in due course.

Location

The fort is about one and a half miles north of Bishop Auckland and is signposted from the A690 Durham-Crook road, the A688 Spennymoor –Bishop Auckland road, and from Bishop Auckland town centre (marketplace/historic Town Hall). Postcode DL14 8DJ.

Facilities and Restrictions:

There is ample parking space beside the visitor centre and Binchester Hall. There is ample space for coaches but these should approach the fort from Bishop Auckland market-place and Wear Chare which runs beside the River Wear. The site has portaloo toilets. Please note that only assistance dogs are allowed on the site. There are no refreshment facilities on site at present. There is a small shop selling a variety of publications.

Easter Saturday March 26th until Friday 30th September. Open for school and other groups during October by prior booking). 11.00am – 4.30pm; July and August 10.00am – 4.30pm.

Entrance fees:

Adults - £3.00, Concessions - £2.00, Children £1.50 (aged four and under free).

Contact details:

Fort tel: 01388 663089. Out of season Archaeology Section tel: 03000 267013.

www.durham.gov.uk/archaeology

WELCOME!

Whether it’s a weekend break in the glorious north east of England, days out with the kids packed with action and history, top-class sport, lively nightlife or some of the best countryside and coastline in Britain –Durham Tees Valley has got it all.

You can get a taste for fine dining at the end of a hard day’s shopping. Browse the freshest produce in traditional markets. Enjoy our superb scenery, or discover the awe-inspiring architecture and history of Durham Castle and Cathedral. Hear stories of Captain Cook, from his earliest days to his greatest adventures, and the industrial history of a region which helped power the British Empire in both peace and wartime.

Durham Tees Valley is packed with historical interest but, as you will find, it’s also a thriving cosmopolitan region so, whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, you’ll never be short of things to see and do.

So whatever you do during your visit to our region, please enjoy – and come back soon! q

FOTOLIA

COMPARE & CONTRAST

Town and country, maritime and railway, old and new –Durham Tees Valley is truly a destination of contrasts

Stroll round the town centres with the myriad of cosmopolitan shops, fine restaurants and exciting entertainment venues, then take a walk in the delightful countryside and be thrilled by the magnificent scenery of the North York Moors.

Visit Durham with its fascinating history, magnificent Cathedral and Castle, or explore Captain Cook Country and find out about the area’s great maritime heritage by following the many historical landmarks on the 30 miles of spectacular coastline.

Trace the history of railway transport, from Stockton and Darlington, where the first passenger railway opened in 1825. At the Darlington Railway Centre and Museum enjoy summer steam specials to delight the family and a fascinating display or railway relics. Then don’t forget to find out about ‘Train Trail’ which links all of the region’s rail heritage attractions, too.

Then you can ‘walk the Darlington way’ and choose from 14 different local routes from easy to moderate, taking in scenic villages, sculpture parks, riverside rambles and urban delights.

Visit nearby Heighington Village, voted by

TV viewers as the Best UK Village for the series of the same name, while Darlington itself has been voted Best City in the Northumbria in Bloom competition with its stunning floral displays in South Park.

Turn the clock back by visiting Piercebridge Roman Fort on the banks of the River Tees and explore the ruins – finds have shown that the Romans were there as early as AD70.

Still on the history trail, St Hilda’s Parish Church at the Headland in Hartlepool is worth visiting to see its fine tower, enormous buttresses and 7th century Saxon name stone.

The Dorman Museum in Linthorpe Road, Middlesbrough, houses a huge collection of items of interest while Ormesby Hall is a palladian 16th century family house with six acres of gardens owned by the National Trust.

You can find out about the history of Guisborough town by calling in at Guisborough Museum in Westgate, and Kirkleatham Museum has collections of archaeology, natural and social history, working life and domestic materials along with paintings,

prints, drawings and photographs.

Contrast that with Cleveland Ironstone Mining Museum in Skinningrove where you can delve into the underground world of the old Loftus mine or Tocketts Mill in Guisborough, a fully-restored water-driven cornmill. Or the Saltburn Miniature Railway, a 15-inch gauge railway with the Locomotive Prince Charles, introduced in 1953 and operated by volunteers.

Tees Valley has some wonderful country parks, including Flatts Lane Woodland Country Park with circular walks, spectacular views, events and guided walks throughout the year. Afterwards, you can quench your thirst with some freshly-brewed beer at the North Yorkshire Brewery Co at Pinchinthorpe Hall and, if that gives you a taste for more ale, head over to Hartlepool and Camerons Brewery Visitor Centre in Stockton Street for a pint of Strongarm or Nimmo beer.

Or if organic food is your passion, visit Piercebridge Organic Shop and Café in the historic village, just opposite Piercebridge Roman Fort –just another of the many contrasts that you can find during your visit to Durham Tees Valley. ❑

GEORGE FORD/DURHAM BID; SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; VISIT TEES VALLEY

Spire Washington Hospital, for those who might not have heard of us before, is a part of Spire Healthcare, the country’s second largest private hospital group. We have three different sites across the North East – our hospital in Rickleton, the Newcastle Clinic in Gosforth, where patients have access to expert consultants and the Sunderland Clinic in East Herrington, where free ten minute appointments are offered with our consultant cosmetic surgeons. We also regularly get out and about through roadshows across the North of England. Through these venues we aim to make access to our services and leading specialists as easy as possible.

In terms of our facilities, these are extensive and our services incorporate breast and bowel cancer screenings and treatment, weight loss surgery, bone and joint surgery

and radiology, where patients get immediate access to MRI, CT, X-ray and image intensification. We even have a sports injury clinic, where we treat professional sports players including many of the Newcastle Falcons, as well as patients from across the region.

Our consultants at the hospital treat patients suffering from urological problems to thyroid disease and operations such as vasectomy reversal and hernia repair are regularly carried out on a day-case basis. We also have some of the best plastic surgery specialists in the region here. They perform cosmetic surgery operations such as breast enlargement, breast reduction, nose reshaping, facelift, eyelid reduction surgery, abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and liposuction. As you can see, there is lots to choose from and a real range of expertise to access.

Infection control is another area that we take very seriously and in which we perform extremely well. Spire Healthcare was the very first private hospital group to publish its clinical outcomes. Since that point in 2006, Spire Washington Hospital is proud to say it has had no reported cases of MRSA or C.Difficile infections and we work hard to maintain this fantastic result, which is no mean feat.

All these different things add up to one thing – we care about you. We focus on ease and accessibility for our patients, with appointments to suit your diary. Whether you wish to access our services through private medical insurance or our pay-as you-go offering, all you need is a GP referral and then we’re here and happy to help.

Durham Cathedral is a place of worship, welcome and hospitality. It forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features breathtaking Romanesque architecture. It is famous as the Shrine of St Cuthbert and the resting place of the Venerable Bede. The Cathedral is a living place for Christian worship and welcomes visitors from around the world as well as the communities of North East England.

There are regular guided tours and self-guided tour leaflets are available. The Cathedral sits high on the Durham Peninsula and can be reached from the City Centre or from many of the woodland footpaths and walks along the riverbanks of the River Wear. The Claustral Buildings represent the most complete set of monastic buildings remaining in England and can be explored when you visit Open Treasure, a new world-class exhibition route open spring 2016. The Undercroft Restaurant serves tasty homemade food and the Cathedral Shop is the perfect place to buy souvenirs and gifts.

The Chapter of Durham is committed to free entry for all to Durham Cathedral. Admission applies to the Cathedral Tower, Open Treasure, and there is a charge for guided tours. When you visit please donate as generously as you can so that free entry can remain.

Explore Open Treasure, the Cathedral’s new world-class exhibition route open spring 2016. Journey through some of the most remarkable medieval buildings in Europe and discover the story of Durham Cathedral and its breathtaking collections. Visit www.durhamcathedral.co.uk for further details.

The Cathedral has large, medium and smaller spaces available for hire, which can be used for a variety of special events, celebratory occasions or meetings and small conferences. Email events@ durhamcathedral.co.uk to find out more.

0191 386 4266 enquiries@durhamcathedral.co.uk www.durhamcathedral.co.uk

During services and some special events access to parts of the Cathedral is limited.

LET’S GO THERE!

Whatever the time of year, and whatever the weather, there’s always plenty to do here

There’s a wealth of amazing places just waiting to be explored. With miles of beautiful beaches, awesome landscapes and a host of award-winning attractions, Durham Tees Valley provides plenty of inspiration for that perfect day out.

The area has a proud agricultural and industrial heritage which is brought to life at Beamish: The Living Museum of the North. It tells the story of the North-East in the 1820s, 1900s and 1940s and many of its historic buildings were brought to the 300 acre site brick by brick and painstakingly reconstructed.

Beamish is populated by a host of costumed characters providing an insightful glimpse into yesteryear. Visitors can travel around aboard a fleet of restored trams and buses or take a trip on a steam train. The main elements of the award-winning museum –12 miles north west of Durham City – are the market town, railway station, farm, colliery, pit village and original Pockerley Old Hall. Tickets are valid for 12 months.

Those with a head for heights can tackle Beamish Wild, in the grounds of nearby Beamish Hall Hotel. The two-hour high ropes

course consists of zip wires, rope bridges and the Powerfan free-fall experience!

One unique attraction a short walk from Durham Market Place is Crook Hall. Dating from the 13th century, it overlooks a series of magnificent gardens and has a café serving home-made cream teas.

For even more flora and fauna visit Durham University’s ten hectare Botanic Garden with its wonderful environment incorporating woodland, gardens and glasshouses with plant collections from around the world.

Adventure Valley at Brasside, a short drive north of Durham City, offers a host of family fun across seven indoor and outdoor play zones , including giant slides, pedal go-karts and cute farmyard friends. There’s also an 18 hole adventure golf course.

Meanwhile, if you want to put your excavation skills to the test, go to construction-themed adventure park Diggerland at Langley Park, where both adults and children can ride and drive real diggers.

Previous visitors to the majestic High Force Waterfall in Upper Teesdale included the painter JMW Turner. Here the River Tees crashes 70ft over a band of igneous Whin Sill into the narrow gorge below.

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Beamish is populated by a host of costumed characters providing an insightful glimpse into yesteryear. Visitors can travel around aboard a fleet of restored trams and buses

DAVID

WallRun

Main Arena

The Bowes Museum

Named after its founders, John and Joséphine Bowes, The Bowes Museum, a French-style château in the picturesque market town of Barnard Castle, is one of the most important museums outside London. It is full of wonderful treasures; at every turn there are significant and precious works from all over Europe, including paintings by El Greco and Goya – the only works by these artists outside national collections in London and Edinburgh.

Furniture, ceramics and sculpture are also well represented, and the collections have received Designated status from the government in recognition of their significance.

While the magnificent legacy that John and Joséphine Bowes left has been cared for to retain its charm and romance, a sympathetic change has taken place which allows for a greater part of the collections to be displayed to best advantage. This year the transformation of the ceramics galleries can be seen; they interpret one of Britain’s most extensive collections of ceramics, including Italian Maiolica and Sèvres Porcelain, in an innovative and exciting way.

The Bowes Museum is also home to the extraordinary Silver Swan, a lifesize 230-year-old musical automaton housed adjacent to a stunning gallery dedicated to the Museum’s silver and precious objects.

The Bowes Museum, Café Bowes and shop are open daily from 10am. A full programme of events and exhibitions takes place throughout the year.

The Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle, County Durham

Tel: 01833 690606

www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk

Medieval Raby Castle has stood watch over Staindrop, near Barnard Castle, for over 600 years. With its fine interiors, including the vast Baron’s Hall, it also has a picturesque walled garden and 200 acre deer park.

Kilhope, The North of England Lead Mining Museum in Upper Weardale is Britain’s best-preserved lead mining site and offers an unforgettable guided mine tour as well as allowing visitors to experience the life and work of the area’s lead mining families.

The birth of the railways is synonymous with Durham Tees Valley. The Head of Steam museum in Darlington is housed in North Road station which was built for the Stockton and Darlington Railway – which in 1825 became the world’s first passenger railway. It also contains the original George Stephenson-designed Locomotion No. 1 and hauled the 38 carriages containing some 700 people to Stockton. During the 12 mile journey, it reached a heady 15mph.

Locomotion, The National Railway Museum at Shildon is free and stages a number of family activities and exhibitions throughout the year. It was from here Locomotion departed on its historic journey and the site contains the modest home of early railway pioneer,

Timothy Hackworth, who established his Engine Works there. The collection includes Hackworth’s Sans Pareil built to compete in the 1829 Rainhill trials.

Another important aspect of the area’s history is brought to life at Hartlepool’s Maritime Experience which recreates an 18th century seaport during the era of Lord Nelson and Napoleon.

At the centre of the historic quayside is HMS Trincomalee, Britain’s oldest floating warship, commissioned under Nelson and launched in India in 1817.

You can also board HMS Wingfield Castle, a restored paddle ship built in Hartlepool in 1934, which is now moored in Jackson Dock. The former passenger ferry is the largest exhibit at the free Museum of Hartlepool which relates the port’s colourful story from the Bronze Age to present day.

The Heugh Battery Museum on the Headland, Hartlepool, encourages people to understand war and conflict through a host of artefacts. It was the only British gun battery to fire in anger during the First World War when in December 1914 three German battlecruisers shelled the town, leaving more than 100 dead and many more wounded.

Get closer to nature at the RSPB’s huge wetland bird reserve at Saltholme, across the Tees from Middlesbrough.

At the centre of the historic quayside is HMS Trincomalee, Britain’s oldest floating warship, commissioned under Nelson and launched in India in 1817

ING IMAGE; MIKE KIPLING/DARLINGTON BOROUGH COUNCIL; VISIT TEES VALLEY

The multi award winning Seaham Harbour Marina is County Durham’s one and only marina, offering significant opportunities for water-sports and leisure-based activities. The marina provides facilities for up to 100 boats, slipway and accommodation for overnight visiting boats.

A secluded sandy beach provides an excellent safe haven for family visits. The Waterside Building hosts a selection of businesses including an onsite café (The Lookout), ice cream parlour (Nicey Icey), hair and beauty salon (Deeva’s), gift shop (Seaside Chic), pancake restaurant (Pancake Kitchen), burger restaurant (Bulan), travel agent (Hello Sunshine) and a fitness advisory centre (East Coast Fitness).

Tel: 0191 581 8998

www.seahammarina.com

Marina Management, Unit 10, The Waterside Seaham Harbour Marina, Seaham County Durham SR7 7EE

Trains through Weardale, Co Durham

Stanhope • Frosterley • Wolsingham • Witton-le-Wear

Enjoy a leisurely journey alongside the River Wear and through the beautiful Weardale countryside

Services between March & October 2016

Extended service to Witton-le-Wear

Special events throughout the season

Easter Bunny Hunt • Fathers Day Craft Fayre • 50s Weekend

Teddy Bears Picnic • Halloween Special

Fares between Stanhope & Wolsingham

Return

Fares between Stanhope & Witton-le-Wear

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter marketing@weardale-railway.org.uk

Weardale Railway Heritage Services Ltd

Stanhope Station, Station Road, Stanhope, Bishop Auckland Co Durham DL13 2YS Tel. 07719 757 755

RABY CASTLE

Discover one of England's Finest Medieval Castles

Visit Raby Castle

• Stunning Castle Interiors

• Deer Park

• Walled Gardens

• Woodland Play Area

• Carriage Collection

• Gift Shop & Tearooms

Full Events Programme details and opening times at www.rabycastle.com

Opening Times

Easter Weekend: Sat, Sun & Mon

May & June: Sun, Mon, Tues, Wed

July & August: Daily except Saturdays

September: Sun, Mon, Tues, Wed

Park and Gardens: 11am to 5pm

Castle: 1pm to 4.30pm

Raby Castle, Staindrop, Darlington, County Durham DL2 3AH

Tel: 01833 660202

www.rabycastle.com

HIGH FORCE

Forest-in-Teesdale

High Force is one of the most impressive waterfalls in England. The River Tees has been plunging into this gorge for thousands of years but the rocks it reveals are much more ancient - with origins dating back over 300 million years!

Opening Times

High Season: Easter until the end of October. Gift shop open. Low Season: November until Easter. Gift shop closed. Admission to the Falls via an honesty box. Car parking charges apply. Please be advised in the interests of safety it may be necessary for High Force to close during adverse weather conditions. Please telephone first before making a journey.

Admission

Adult: £1.50, Concessions: £1, Children (5-15 yrs): 50p

Car Parking: £2 per Car, £1.50 per

Motorbike Coaches/Minibuses: £25/£12.50 (Charges may vary on special event days). Coach parking fees apply for school parties, please book in advance.

High Force, Forest-in-Teesdale, County Durham DL12 0XH

Tel: 01833 622209

Email: highforce@rabycastle.com

www.highforcewaterfall.com

The world class course also offers white water kayaking, powerboating and the more tranquil activities of sailing, canoeing and bellboating

There is a state of the art visitor’s centre with first floor café offering great view as well as a network of trails leading to three architect-designed hides.

Wynyard Woodland Park near Thorpe Thewles is a fantastic family destination. The site is a former freight railway which today provides a fantastic adventure playground plus miles of walks and cycle tracks together with a visitor centre and café in the old railway station.

Sir John Hall has created one of the region’s newest visitor attractions in the grounds of Wynyard Hall. The Walled Gardens have 3,000 roses of 140

varieties across 150 acres. He eventually intends to double the size of the garden.

The former Georgian home of industrialist Robert Ropner is now an award-winning museum set in extensive parkland beside the River Tees at Eaglescliffe, near Stockton. Preston Park Museum and Grounds features a recreated Victorian Street and whisks visitors back in time to recount the story of the area’s industrial and social heritage.

The parkland contains a fantastic adventure play area, café, nature reserve as well as Butterfly World, where visitors can wander through a recreated tropical rainforest filled with exotic butterflies.

Adrenalin junkies who don’t mind the damp

should head to the Tees Barrage White Water Rafting Centre on the north bank of the Tees at Stockton. The world-class course also offers white water kayaking, powerboating and the more tranquil activities of sailing, canoeing and bellboating.

Experience what life was like for the Pennyman family who lived at Ormesby Hall on the edge of Middlesbrough for almost 400 years. The classic Georgian mansion is now cared for by the National Trust and includes an attractive park, gardens and walks.

Those with a head for heights can take in the view from the open roof terrace of Redcar Beacon or take in a day at Redcar Racecourse.

Ride the famous water-powered cliff lift at Saltburn on your way to take the sea air

on the cast iron Victorian pier. The beach also provides excellent surfing conditions and a large community of surfers has built up over recent years. Lessons are available from the beachside Saltburn Surf School on the Lower Promenade.

There are also cycle trails and walking routes together with a trim trail and popular children’s play areas in the delightful surroundings of Guisborough Forest and Walkway. The visitor’s centre and café at Pinchinthorpe provides an ideal starting point.

Experience life underground on a fully guided tour of the Cleveland Ironstone Mining Museum which stands on the site of Loftus mine at Skinningrove, near Saltburn. It charts the rise and fall of the industry and its effect on the local communities and is open from March until the end of October. q

FOTOLIA

A TASTE OF THE NORTH EAST –AND THE WORLD!

Top-end fine dining, adventurous independents and a huge range of ethnic cuisine means you’ll never go hungry here

Whatever your culinary preferences you’ll find Durham Tees Valley has a rich and diverse dining scene, brimming with restaurants, cafes, bistros and bars.

From tapas to Thai, classic to contemporary, there’s something to satisfy every taste and budget, whether it’s a lunchtime snack, romantic meal or just relaxing with coffee and cake.

Durham, popular with visitors and students alike, has a wealth of cafes. Quirky Velvet Elvis on Framwellgate Bridge, upstairs from the boutique, offers great views of the castle and cathedral as well as a tasty array of bagels and sandwiches.

Alternatives include the Tealicious

Tearoom, famous for its cakes and unique blends of tea and the Flat White coffee shop and café, both on Elvet Bridge; friendly vegetarian Jumping Bean Café on Neville Street and award-winning Vennels Café, tucked down an alleyway off Saddler Street.

Restaurant DH1, situated in the Victorian grandeur of Farnley Tower, offers fine dining using simple but seasonal ingredients across three menus while Finbarr’s, in Waddington Street, offers quality food using locally-sourced ingredients in a variety of traditional and contemporary dishes.

There’s an enviable variety of restaurants in Stockton-on-Tees. Caruso on Vane Terrace is consistently-rated one of the area’s best Italian restaurants. Presided over by Rocco,

the authentic family-run affair offers freshly cooked pizza, pasta, steaks and chicken dishes together with a range of Parmesans.

Indian restaurant Vadah, which opened in April 2014, is another popular spot, blending chic surroundings and great Riverside views with both traditional and contemporary Indian cooking.

To sample a little café culture drop by stylish Café Sapore in Hartburn. It’s the perfect place to enjoy coffee and cake, a glass of wine or sample the varied menu. Afterwards you can browse the deli section which sells a range of Italian food and drink.

Further Italian flair is evident at the refurbished Café Lilli on Norton’s leafy high street. The bistro-style eaterie was founded in 2004 and has built up a loyal following of enthusiastic customers.

Award-winning vegetarian restaurant

FOTOLIA; ING IMAGE; SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

THE CELLAR DOOR RESTAURANT

Passion. It is quite often impossible to summarise the experience created within a restaurant with just one word. Passion. Passion to produce the best food possible with the freshest and finest ingredients we can scour the world to find. Passion to strive to be the best. Passion to ensure that our customers remember. Passion to cater for people from all walks of life and give them a lasting memory of our restaurant.

We’re not going to tell you about how we have stunning river views with outdoor dining set in a 13th Century cellar conversion. We’ re not going to bore you with how difficult we are to find. We want you to come here, seek us out, walk down those narrow steps, be surprised by what lies beneath and leave wishing you had found us sooner. We’re not perfect, we’re not the best in the world, but we strive to be the best we can and evolve every day, so come join us on our journey.

SPECIAL OCCASIONS & GROUP DINING

We love a good party. From the more refined wedding celebrations to the important business dinners and staff nights. Every person and occasion is different, so we don ’t do generic packages for you to pick. Each event is tailored for individually by one of us, who helps to organise the event to the most intricate details to ensure your special day is special for everyone you invite.

So whether you want to book the whole restaurant or have a smaller private dining experience, get in touch and we’ll create a bespoke package just for you.

FIND US

We’re in the City Centre, on Saddler Street, on the way up to the Cathedral. Be careful not to miss us as there’ s only a narrow doorway on the main street leading to the expanse below. You can park in Prince bishops car park and we’ re a two minute walk away.

The Cellar Door, 41 Saddler Street, Durham, County Durham. DH1 3NU

Opening Times: Monday - Sunday 10.30am - 10.30pm

T: 0191 383 1856 | W: www.thecellardoordurham.co.uk | E: tcd.durham@gmail.com

The Waiting Room in nearby Eaglescliffe boasts innovative seasonal menus as well as organic wines and bottleconditioned beers. It’s also famous for its eclectic Sunday night entertainment involving arts events, music and comedy, one former turn being none other than Liverpool funnyman John Bishop.

For fine dining in fine surroundings, try the Georgian lakeside mansion of Wynyard Hall, set in 150 acres near Billingham. The sumptuous setting of The Wellington restaurant offers contemporary cooking with a passion for local produce and seasonal ingredients. It also offers a scrumptious afternoon tea experience.

Picturesque Yarm provides a charming backdrop to a wide selection of dining options. The licensed-pavement café of Muse treats diners to classic dishes with a nouveau cuisine twist. Serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Nearby Cena Trattoria is renowned for its warm friendly atmosphere and extensive menu of Italian dishes including artisan pizzas and freshly-prepared

The sumptuous setting offers contemporary cooking with a passion for local-produce and seasonal ingredients. It also offers a scrumptious afternoon tea experience

pasta. The family-run Santoro restaurant and wine bar has also been a High Street favourite for 35 years serving Italian fare with some British-inspired dishes.

The independent Mockingbird Deli offers home-baked scones, scrummy cakes and Italian pastries as well as toasted ciabattas. Its wine bar is open Thursday and Fridays until 9pm.

Middlesbrough offers a wealth of ethnic eateries and nowhere is this better reflected than along Linthorpe Road.

For traditional Turkish dishes in a relaxed atmosphere, sample the family-run Meze Lounge or for South Indian cuisine try Dosa Houze and its thali, a mix-and match of various specialist curries.

Al Forno on Southfield Road provides fresh home-cooked Italian food using locallysourced ingredients plus a

choice of international dishes. Enjoy a taste of the Continent at the Michelin-recommended Brasserie Hudson Quay near Middlesbrough FC’s Riverside Stadium.

It opened in 2013 following a £500,000 investment and offers a menu of classical French, Spanish and Italian cooking together with themed and entertainment evenings.

A real taste of tradition can be found at The Olde Young Tea House on Grange Road, voted the nation’s Independent Shop of the Year 2014. It stocks more than 100 world teas and offers a great selection of sandwiches and inspired cake creations, including Ferrero Rocher, Banoffee and Eton Mess.

The waterside setting of Hartlepool Marina is home to almost 500 yachts and boats and is a memorable place for dining day or night. Navigation Point has an array of restaurants, cafes and bars offering every flavour of

The Redwell

has gained a reputation as one of the best places to eat in Barnard Castle.

The menu complements the relaxed and informal surroundings, with plenty to choose from ranging from great quality steaks, burgers and fresh fish to more traditional English pub dishes and Desserts all created from fresh and in house. HARMIRE

Situated in the newly redeveloped Seaham Harbour Marina, we’re confident in saying you won’t find a better view in the North East. But don’t take our word for it. Come down, grab a coffee and see for yourself. Come rain or shine it really is magnificent.

cuisine including Asian, African, American and Spanish.

Portals Place in Neptune House is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant with a menu for all tastes, from steaks and fresh seafood, to pasta and vegetarian options.

Stylish bistro-pizzeria Portofino on the Historic Quay overlooks the town’s proud centrepiece of HMS Trimcomalee and mixes Italian, Mediterranean and North African cooking. It’s a firm favourite on the town’s dining scene serving up a combination of pizzas, pastas, fish, poultry, steaks and tajines.

Ruskins Bistro in the Douglas Hotel on Grange Road, which is open to non-residents, is a popular destination for its Sunday carvery but also offers a meat and seafood-based menu with the emphasis on quality food.

The White Hart Inn can be found in the nearby attractive village of Hart and serves a range of home-cooked pub food, from steaks to salmon, and is noted for its friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere.

There’s also a truly international flavour on offer in the market town of Darlington. Voodoo Café in Skinnergate was voted best Latin Café outside London in 2012 and, as well as serving up an authentic taste of Mexico, it has a great selection of cocktails

and beers and also hosts weekly salsa and tango dance nights.

Tapas lovers should visit Sol Tapas on Duke Street while the intimate Meze Bistro on Parkgate serves up traditional cooked Turkish food. Try its speciality mixed meze starter.

There’s a great selection of Italian restaurants with Al Forno on Skinnergate, Foffanos in the Market Square and the well-established Sardis Restaurant on Northgate while curry lovers should head to Duke Bombay Café in Duke Street, Star of Bengal on Gladstone Street or Spice 4U on Cockerton Green.

There’s also no shortage of fine dining options from Maxine’s at Bannatyne’s Hotel or Rockliffe Hall at nearby Hurworth which offers gourmet menus to tasty grills from its flagship Orangery restaurant, Spa Brasserie or the informal Clubhouse restaurant.

Seven miles west of Darlington is the hamlet of Summerhouse, home to Michelinstarred The Raby Hunt Restaurant. Selftaught head chef James Close has fused simplicity with a modern bistro style to create an acclaimed foodie haven.

Redcar has a range of dining options from traditional English, Asian and Italian. Relish Café in the town’s High Street is a firm

As well as serving up an authentic taste of Mexico, it has a great selection of cocktails and beers and also hosts weekly salsa and tango dance nights

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For quality fish and chips by the waves, try the Seaview Restaurant on the Lower Promenade, or the Cat Nab Fish Bar further along the beach on Saltburn Road

TO DURHAM TEES VALLEY

favourite serving speciality sandwiches, paninis, burgers, salads and light bites. It also offers afternoon tea and sophisticated evening menu together with a ‘Chocolate and Goo’ desert board!

However, most visit the seaside resort to sample its freshly cooked fish and chips and the institution that is Pacitto’s, which offers a range of ice creams, including the famous Lemon Top.

Down the coast lies the popular tourist destination of Saltburn which has a good selection of cafes, pubs, restaurants and of course fish and chip shops.

For quality fish and chips by the waves, try the Seaview Restaurant on the Lower Promenade, or the Cat Nab Fish Bar further along the beach on Saltburn Road.

Milton Street is home to a number of popular dining options. For fine dining try The Kings Grill, for innovative Indian cooking visit Jadoo or sample deli-café Real Meals which prides

itself on locally-sourced ingredients. It also sells a huge range of handmade pies, pates and speciality cheeses.

There’s also the intimate Virgo’s Café Bistro in Dundas Street East and the family-run Signals Bistro near the railway station. Both have extensive daytime and evening menus.

Cookfellas brings a little continental style to the market town of Guisborough. The family-run eatery and wine bar uses the best of local produce in its extensive lunchtime and evening menus.

Badger’s Café and Cocktail Bar, also on Church Street, opened in 2014 and aims to evoke a sense of city culture. It serves an array of wraps and sandwiches, salads, toasted bagels, cakes and scones.

Other great options include The Black Swan Pub and Brasseries on Westgate or the intimate Cats Whiskers bistro or Italian restaurant Sergios, both on Challoner Street. q

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OUR TOP 10s!

There are dozens of reasons to love it here – check out a few of our favourites

10 MOODLIFTERS

{01} Wrap up warm and take a refreshing walk along Saltburn Beach.

{02} Soak up the history and spiritual inspiration at Durham Castle and Cathedral, a World Heritage Site.

{03} Put yourself in the picture with a visit to Mima’s latest fascinating exhibition.

{04} Take afternoon tea at Wynyard Hall.

{05} Experience nature with a day of bird-watching and wildlife spotting at Saltholme Wildlife Reserve and Discovery Park.

{06} Take a meditation class at Atisha Kadampa Buddist Centre.

{07} Blow away the cobwebs at High Force, England’s largest waterfall.

{08} Indulge in a day of shopping and cocktails in Yarm.

{09} Treat your artistic side at The Bowes Museum.

{10} Drink in the atmosphere with a brewery tour at Cameron’s Brewery Visitor Centre.

10 KIDS’ TREATS

{01} Experience life on a working farm at Newham Grange Country Farm.

{02} Take a ride on Saltburn’s Miniature Railway.

{03} Take the brood to Hartlepool’s Maritime Experience for a Children’s Adventure Centre, a Playship and traditional outdoor games.

{04} Go down a real life mine at Cleveland Ironstone Mining Museum.

{05} Get up close with the cutest bunch of animals at Hall Hill Farm.

{06} Visit an indoor tropical garden and wonder at the butterflies at Butterfly World, plus say hello to the resident meerkats.

{07} See flying displays and meet baby owls and baby vultures at Kirkleatham Owl Centre.

{08} Feed the animals at Stewart Park and discover all about the world’s most famous navigator at the Captain Cook Birthplace Museum situated within the park.

{09} Enjoy a family fun day at Adventure Valley, Brasside.

{10} Step back in time at Beamish Museum. ❑

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LIKE TO SHOP? YOU’LL LOVE IT HERE!

High street chains, one-off independents and quirky specialists – they’re all waiting for the shopaholic

Whether you seek the latest in eyecatching chic or simply enjoy browsing a bustling market, there’s a shopping experience to suit all tastes and budgets here.

The choice is varied, from leading high street names to designer boutiques and a fantastic mix of award-winning independent shops.

Durham offers all this – with the added delight of wandering through its narrow winding streets in the shadow of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It has two shopping centres a short walk from the city’s Market Place focal point. The open air Prince Bishop Shopping Centre offers more than 40 leading retailers and a range of boutiques. Just across the river by Framwellgate Bridge lies The Gates Shopping Centre, which is to undergo a £30m redevelopment. Due for

completion by 2018, it will include a multiplex cinema, restaurants, and riverside promenade.

The beautifully-restored Durham Indoor Market, built in 1851, is a real gem. Several of its 70-odd traders have been in business over 30 years.

Meanwhile, the Market Place hosts Durham City Farmers’ Market every third Thursday of the month and the Outdoor Retail Market every Saturday.

One of the bustling city’s best-kept secrets is the riverside Fowlers Yard. The red brick former stables and warehouses, behind the Indoor Market, provide a creative space for professional artists, crafts people and creative businesses.

Other independents worth a visit are The Mugwump, a self-styled unique boutique offering three floors of designer fashion, accessories, gifts, homeware and art.

Vintage clothing store Velvet Elvis on Framwellgate Bridge also sells distinctive

hand-made jewellery. It’s a quirky collaboration between Dawn Robson and David Stephenson who first worked together as market traders.

Shoes and self-expression fuse at Scorpio Shoes in Saddler Street which stocks an impressive range of fashion brands – supplying everything from brogues and creepers to skater shoes, with many vivid colours and designs.

Gateway World, housed in St Nicholas Church in the Market Place, offers a wide range of Fair Trade items, plus crafts and food products.

Bargain hunters should head some 10 miles east to the North-East’s biggest outlet shopping centre just off the A19 at Dalton Park, near Seaham.

With ample free parking, it contains more than 60 outlet shops, ranging from high street brands such as M&S, Next and Gap to designer labels – with up to 50 per cent off. A £45m leisure development, to include multiplex cinema, a range of new restaurants,

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hotel and supermarket is due to open by May 2016.

Further down the coast at Hartlepool is Middleton Grange, one of the region’s largest shopping centres as well as the Hartlepool Marina shopping developments. Middleton Grange hosts more than 80 businesses including such familiar names as BHS, Wilko and Primark plus a busy indoor market with over 40 stalls.

Hartlepool Marina is divided into three retail parks, all with free parking and home to the major high street names, together with several restaurants, a bingo hall and cinema. Meanwhile, Hartlepool Farmers’ Market offers more than 30 stalls selling a wide range of produce from meats and fish to crepes in the Historic Quay car park every second Saturday in the month. The open air Hartlepool Market trades every Thursday in West Side car park.

There’s certainly no shortage of shopping opportunities in Middlesbrough with four shopping centres – the Cleveland Centre, Hillstreet Shopping Centre, Captain

Hartlepool Marina is divided into three retail parks, all with free parking and home to the major high street names – together with several restaurants, a bingo hall and cinema

Cook Square and Dundas Shopping Mall

– just a few minutes walk of each other.

The pedestrianised Linthorpe Road and Newport Road are also home to flagship stores such as Debenhams and House of Fraser together with Psyche. Psyche, a pioneering and palatial independent store, offers more than 200 designer brands and has earnt national acclaim for its style and innovation. In 2012 it was runner-up to Harrods in Department Store of the Year.

Award-winning designer Kate Fearnley, whose creations have adorned many a red carpet celeb, has a concession in Psyche as well as nearby appointment-only boutique.

Also in Linthorpe Road are cutting edge fashion stores Triads and Yakuza together with Concept, offering a range of home accessories, silver jewellery and gifts and the quirky Howl, selling t-shirts, bags, jewellery and a range of gifts.

This independent spirit continues in Baker Street, which has established a reputation as the town’s cool quarter. It’s home to vintage fashion stores Disgraceland, Vintageous Rags and

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Why not come and see for yourself?

/Allium Interiors

20 Horsemarket | Barnard Castle County Durham DL12 8LZ

Allium Interiors is a delightful gift and homewares shop situated in the centre of the historic market town, Barnard Castle. It stocks a diverse range of products including Neom Organics, Avoca, Noble Isle, Jellycat and so much more.

cutting edge clothing stores Dandy Boy, 9th Willow and Dolly Rockers.

Neighbouring Stockton’s claim to fame is its High Street, the widest in the UK, which has been transformed by a two-and-a half year £20m redevelopment. The scheme, which includes new paving, seating, artworks and water fountain , is designed to create a more inviting atmosphere for shoppers as well as a focal point for the 700-year-old traditional market held every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.

Castlegate Shopping Centre, home to a mix of 70 independent and big name retailers, lies at one end of the High Street while at the other is the newest shopping development, Wellington Square, which contains more than 40 stores, including Debenhams.

For gemstone jewellery with a Norwegian twist go to Made by Marianne or for something completely different visit Who-Ray! The Silver Street gift and memorabilia shop has a particular fondness for Dr Who, Star Wars and sci-fi in general.

Teesside Shopping Park is just off the A66 near Stockton and is a popular destination across the Tees Valley with its ease of access, free parking and extended opening hours. It offers fashion outlets such as H&M, TK Maxx, Jacamo and Schuh together with homeware and electrical stores. A huge selection of restaurants, multiplex cinema, bowling alley and casino means it has something for everyone.

Yarm, near Stockton, was voted by BBC Breakfast viewers as Britain’s Best High Street for Something Old and Something New. Its Georgian charm invites you to explore its wide largelycobbled High Street which envelops the iconic Dutch-style town hall.

Here you’ll find the family-owned department store of Strickland & Holt, a fixture for more than 150 years, selling everything from quality fashion to cards, toys and a huge range of gifts. It also has a café and artisan bakery.

It’s part of the town’s successful blend of traditional and contemporary together with a great selection of cafes and bars. For designer clothing check out The House or Jules B Ladieswear, and for designer children’s wear and gifts visit Elfin. Meanwhile at Indigo you’ll find a diverse range of furniture, lighting and accessories for the home and garden sourced from around the world.

Neighbouring Stockton’s claim to fame is its High Street, the widest in the UK, which has been transformed by a two-and-a half year £20m redevelopment

Darlington still retains a traditional high street which links to The Cornmill Shopping Centre, with over 40 stores, and the smaller Queens Street Shopping Centre. The flagship Binns House of Fraser department store sits on the corner of pedestrianised High Row and offers a large range of premium fashion together with cosmetics and household goods, as well as an upper floor restaurant providing great views across the town.

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If

The Victorian Covered Market has been at the heart of the town since 1863 and continues to retain a vibrant mix of retailers, many of whom have been trading for more than 50 years. An open market is held in the centre every Monday and Saturday while the Sunday People’s market is held on the first Sunday of each month on Blackwellgate

There are more than 200 independent shops in Darlington. For a unique experience, Grange Road offers a wealth of upmarket independents ranging from a host of designer fashion to homeware. One of the most original shops is Guru in Blackwellgate, selling everything from incense sticks ethnic clothing, to fancy dress and fun gifts, while stylish Leggs in Skinnergate, offers designer fashion for both sexes.

The Victorian seaside town of Saltburn has a number of independent stores such as high-quality gift shop Brambles, which stocks everything from scented candles and children’s dinner sets to jewellery. Northern Lights Interiors on Milton Street describes itself as an emporium of vintage and sells everything from chandeliers, lighting, glassware and ceramics as well as stocking

unique items. For a tasty treat visit Chocolini’s, also on Milton Street, where chocolatiers create a bespoke range of chocolate gifts, as well as serving up delicious drinking chocolate and coffees.

Saltburn Farmers’ Market, a 2014 finalist in the National Farmers’ Market of the Year, is held every second Saturday of the month from March until December, except August.

The cobbled Westgate in Guisborough is the setting for the town’s traditional market every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday with a Farmers’ Market every second Saturday of the month, except August.

The town is also home to the independent Guisborough Bookshop, which stocks many new titles and has a great children’s section, Bike Scene, one of the region’s leading mountain bike shops. ❑

There are more than 200 independent shops in Darlington – Grange Road offers a wealth of upmarket independents ranging from a host of designer fashion to homeware

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A REGION AT THE HEART OF ART!

This region has always been a hotbed of creativity – and still is

Durham Tees Valley possesses a huge range of cultural and artistic highlights, from music, theatre and galleries to historic monuments and museums, all reflecting and celebrating its rich and diverse heritage.

To underline this, Tees Valley has declared its intent to bid for UK City of Culture in 2025 and is looking to enhance the area’s cultural offerings to help further grow the tourism economy.

The city of Durham is one of the country’s finest cultural and historical destinations, with winding streets rising to a peninsular topped by the magnificent cathedral and castle.

The site, protected by the serpent-like coil of the River Wear, was one of the first to be granted World Heritage status.

Work on the Cathedral, which has free entry, began in 1093 and it is now renowned as one of the finest surviving examples of Romanesque architecture.

It is also culturally significant as the burial place of St Cuthbert and the Venerable Bede, author of the first English history. Visited by 700,000 people a year, it has been voted Britain’s best building.

The castle, which is home to university students, is also open to the public for guided tours.

A remarkable and internationallysignificant collection of the great cultures stretching from North Africa to south east Asia can be viewed at The Oriental Museum. Artefacts include Egyptian Mummies, Chinese porcelain and head hunting swords from Borneo.

The Gala Theatre is the focus of the city’s arts scene and attracts top theatre companies to its £15m purpose-built riverside home which stages a varied programme of music, comedy, dance and drama.

The city also hosts a number of annual events including July’s famous Durham Miners’ Gala. In 2015, a record-breaking 150,000 people watched the parade of union banners accompanied by scores of brass bands, reflecting the rich heritage of the former Durham coalfields.

The acclaimed Brass, Durham International Festival is also held every July. The four day 2015 event was headlined by Fun Lovin’ Criminals and involved a host of concerts and free events, including a raucous street party. October’s Durham Book Festival also draws the crowds and 2015’s 12-day celebration of the written word included appearances from such authors as Pat Barker, Philip Pullman and Bill Bryson.

Auckland Castle in Bishop Auckland has been a Palace for the Prince Bishops of Durham for over 900 years. It is also home to important works of art, notably

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BONDGATE GALLERY

51 Fore Bondgate, Bishop Auckland Co. Durham DL14 7PE www.ukwatercolours.com

51 Fore Bondgate, Bishop Auckland Co. Durham DL14 7PE www.ukwatercolours.com

tel: 01388 665919

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email: lynn@bondgategallery.co.uk

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Art

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Described as one of the best examples in the country of an Anchorite’s cell (anchoritea Medieval religious recluse).

The Museum contains a collection of Roman, Anglo-Saxon and Medieval artifacts found on the historic site of Chester-le-Street Parish Church.

Open 10am to 3pm (except Thursdays) Easter Monday to the end of September, mornings only during winter when Stewards are available. Admission free.

As the Museum is part of a working Church, weddings and funerals mean the museum is closed, so phone the Parish Centre on 0191 388 3295 on the day of your visit to avoid disappointment.

MUSEUM PARISH OFFICE, ANKERS HOUSE MUSEUM, CHURCH CHARE, CHESTER LE STREET, CO DURHAM DH3 3WB

the paintings of Jacob and his twelve sons by the Spanish master Francisco de Zurbarán. Now owned by Auckland Castle Trust, plans are progressing to develop it into a world class visitor attraction along with its gardens, impressive Deer House and Park.

The first floor of Spennymoor Town Hall is home to the Art Gallery and houses a permanent collection of paintings, including works by the acclaimed pitman painter, Norman Cornish. It also houses Durham Mining Museum, which includes a mock coalface to give visitors an insight into working underground.

The market town of Barnard Castle in Teesdale is the unlikely setting for the Bowes Museum – an imposing French chateau housing a nationally important and diverse collection including European fine arts, ceramics, paintings, period furniture and local artefacts. Its recent Yves Saint Laurent exhibition gained it national recognition.

Inspired by his French actress wife Josephine, the building was begun by John Bowes in the 19th century to house their collection of 15,000 objects. Sadly, both died before it could be completed.

Inspired by his French actress wife Josephine, the building was begun by John Bowes in the 19th century to house their collection of 15,000 objects

Its collections spread over three floors and include paintings by Canaletto, Goya, El Greco and Gainsborough together with the famous 240-year-old clockwork Silver Swan and slightly more infamous two-headed calf.

The market town is also home to The Witham Hall which underwent a major restoration and redevelopment to create a modern arts venue with a vibrant programme of music, theatre, film and comedy events.

Distinctive Darlington Civic Theatre has

been entertaining the crowds since 1907 when it was established as music hall. Over the years, it has witnessed a host of famous acts including Tommy Cooper, Rex Harrison and Mickey Rooney. More recently it has welcomed Sian Philips, Darcy Bussell and Michael McIntyre.

Hartlepool is the home of cultural icon Andy Capp and a five foot bronze statue honouring the cartoon icon –minus his trademark cigarette – stands on the Headland. At the time of creator Reg Smythe’s death in 1988, the strip was syndicated to 1,700 newspapers in 50 countries.

For artwork of a slightly different kind visit Hartlepool Art Gallery, housed in a beautifully restored Victorian church. It offers great views from the 100 ft clock tower as well works of national and regional significance and a frequentlychanging programme of exhibitions.

Hartlepool’s Gothic-style Town Hall Theatre in Raby Road offers a varied programme of both professional and amateur performances ranging from Shakespeare to comedy, music and lectures.

One of the country’s leading galleries for modern and contemporary art is mima,

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Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art. Situated in the heart of the town in Centre Square, the distinctive building opened in 2007 and entry is free. It displays world-class exhibitions of works dating from 1900 to present day.

The red brick and terracotta Dorman Museum, next to Albert Park, celebrates Middlesbrough’s rich heritage. From natural history to social history, geology to Victorian arts and crafts, its collection is displayed across eight permanent galleries plus two changing exhibition spaces.

The Captain Cook Birthplace Museum in Stewart Park celebrates the life and times of one of the world’s greatest explorers, close to the site of the cottage where he was born. The museum is open April to November.

Middlesbrough Theatre began life as an Opera House in the 1920s and was later converted into a cinema. It is now run as a theatre by a charitable trust and stages an array of entertainment including drama, music, dance and comedy.

Early June sees the Middlesbrough Mela weekend, a spectacular and colourful celebration of Asian culture, music, food and dance.

Every summer the acclaimed Stockton International Riverside

Stockton Arts Centre is a thriving multi-arts venue offering a full programme of professional live performances and film over three floors

Festival plays host to hundreds of performers from around the globe. The four day arts extravaganza is now Europe’s largest free open air arts festival, featuring outdoor theatre, street entertainment, circus, music and dance.

Stockton Arts Centre, or ARC, is a thriving multi-arts venue offering a full programme of professional live performances and film over three floors together with a number of workshops and classes.

The Forum in Billingham, which recently underwent an £18.5 refurbishment, is also a well-established theatre staging a variety of entertainment from drama to ballet, musicals to comedy.

For eight days every August the town is transformed by a celebration of cultures from across the world as part of Billingham International Folklore Festival.

Traditional and contemporary dance

and music blends with a shock of colourful costumes and street parades.

Family-friendly Kirkleatham Museum, near Redcar, is housed in the magnificent Old Hall which was built in 1709. It offers a variety of permanent displays reflecting the local history as well as regularly changing exhibitions. Set in extensive grounds, which includes Kirkleatham Owl Centre, there is also a popular café.

It’s not often you can visit a museum named after a one-eyed cat, except in Marske-by-the-Sea. The hands-on Winkies Castle folk museum is in a small cottage crammed with artefacts recounting the community’s history. Open during the summer season, it was founded by a local cobbler and bequeathed to the council after his death.

Gisborough Priory in Guisborough has become a symbol of the market town – the window of its remaining east wall forming a distinctive arch. The Augustinian priory was founded by an ancestor of Robert the Bruce. q

ALASTAIR

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WELCOME TO THE NIGHT!

When it gets dark, this region’s lively scene offers something for everyone

Durham Tees Valley is buzzing once darkness falls, with classy cocktail bars and nightclubs to traditional pubs serving up that perfect pint of real ale.

Listen to live music, meet friends in a plush bar, relax in a friendly pub or dance to the early hours in a lively club. A perfect night awaits.

For a small city, Durham has a wide selection of pubs and bars – from traditional to trendy – creating a really vibrant nightlife. The Swan & Three Cygnets is a Samuel Smiths house by Elvet Bridge with great river views from its terrace. Known to regulars as ‘The Swan’, it also offers quality pub grub.

Dating from 1899, family-run The Victoria Inn on Hallgarth Street boasts the North East’s best surviving pub interior. With an ever changing line-up of real ales, it was the city’s CAMRA Pub of the Year in 2014/15.

You can also watch the world drift by at the revamped riverside Boat Club. With great views of Elvet Bridge, it boasts an outdoor terrace and provides a perfect place for eating and drinking. When the lights go down in the evening, expect a varied range of music.

Opposite is Whisky River cocktail bar and café, which was voted Best Bar in 2013. Its relaxed atmosphere is a perfect match for its location and it also boasts an extensive cocktail menu, with everything from a Singapore Sling to an Amaretto and Blueberry Mojito.

Those seeking a more lively night out head to Walkergate which has a multicultural mix of restaurants and

bars set around a split-level piazza including Chiquito Bar and Mexican Grill, and the Slug & lettuce.

It is also home to Ebony Champagne and Cocktail Bar where champagnes, more than 40 different cocktails, fine wines, beers and spirits can be enjoyed in sophisticated and glamorous surroundings.

If you’re still not ready to turn in for the night then try one of Durham’s nightclubs. Retro-feel Loveshack, which opened in 2007, is the city’s largest and

For a small city, Durham has a wide selection of pubs and bars – from traditional to trendy – creating a really vibrant nightlife

with a 600 capacity offers a real party atmosphere.

Klute was once voted runner-up in FHM Magazine’s review of Europe’s worst nightclubs in 1996. Since then it has had a revamp and is popular with students for its intimate atmosphere and musical mix of chart, cheese and funky house.

The energetic nightlife of Middlesbrough draws people from across the Tees Valley. There are several live music venues as well as nightclubs, bars and busy pubs.

Built in 1897, The Middlesbrough Empire is one of the town’s oldest and grandest entertainment spots having played host to a variety of performers from Charlie Chaplin to Paul Oakenfold, Kaiser Chiefs and Kasabian. Today the Grade 2 listed building is one of the country’s finest venues with three floors dedicated to music and style. Live gigs cover a wide taste in music from heavy metal to Indie and pop – while the list of top DJs who have played its club nights include Pete Tong and Fatboy Slim.

Another stunning Victorian concert venue is the Gothic Town Hall which stages a range of events from concert and comedy to theatre. Previous acts include Paul Weller, Oasis, Babyshambles and Robbie Williams.

There’s a range of great spots for a drink and a dance including The Keys nightclub, with its colourful LED dance floor, The Dickens Inn or the recently re-opened Doctor Browns which regularly stages live bands.

For something different try the indie-inspired Medicine Bar on Corporation Road, which recently underwent a £100,000 revamp including new sound and lighting system, or nearby Mink, lovingly restored using reclaimed bricks, driftwood and iron and steel. It provides an eclectic range of entertainment including live bands, comedy, DJs and Burlesque.

Real ale lovers should make a beeline to micropubs The Twisted Lip and Sherlocks on hip Baker Street or Dr Phil’s Real Ale House in Linthorpe –voted Cleveland CAMRA’s Pub of the Year 2015 – or to relax with friends try

the refurbished Southfield or Wetherpoon’s Swatter’s Carr.

In nearby Stockton, Ku Bar has spent over a decade building a reputation for the quality of its live music scene, from showcasing Teesside’s top musical talent to attracting up-and-coming bands like Glasvegas and The Arctic Monkeys to the area. Ku, on Prince Regent Street, also holds popular club nights and doors are open until 3am.

Another venue for live music is the 200-capacity Georgian Theatre and the neighbouring Green Room which hosts more intimate gigs. Managed by the non-profit making Tees Music Alliance, it also offers rehearsal and recording facilities at Green Dragon Studios. The theatre, which opened in 1766, hosts a variety of musical tastes from folk to punk and indie rock. In addition to the many local acts, it has welcomed such names as The Kooks, James Blunt, Sean Ryder and The Macabees.

For those who enjoy a flutter, there’s the Grosvenor Casino at Chandler’s Wharf or the Rainbow Casino at Teesside Leisure Park. Both offer an exciting mix of gaming and live entertainment, together with a restaurant and bar. There’s also a decent selection of hostelries in the town including Stockton’s first micropub, The Golden Smog, in Hambletonian Yard. It serves a range of locally-brewed ales and real ciders

together with a large selection of bottled continental beers.

Upstream lies Yarm, with its attractive Georgian High Street lined with cafes, bars and traditional-but-stylish watering holes which always draw a large and trendy crowd, especially at weekends.

There’s a good choice from the strippedback look of stylish bar Osbornes, the Ketton Ox, Black Bull and George and Dragon, the scene of a meeting in 1820 of the promoters behind the pioneering Stockton and Darlington Railway. Another popular destination is The Keys which is a restaurant, pub and nightclub complete with flashing dance floor licensed until 2am. The club opens on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday nights.

Hartlepool Marina is home to an array of bars, cafes and restaurants – including Irish bar Rosie O’ Gradys, Kings Bar and Restaurant, North Star and Wallis & Co Bar & Kitchen clustered around the luxury Navigation Point development. The town

centre has an array of late opening ‘party’ bars including Loons, Bar Paris, Idols and Yates, which attract a younger crowd.

For a less frenetic atmosphere head to The Headland and the Fisherman’s Arms, a Cleveland CAMRA Pub of the Year, or enjoy a pint in the reputedly-haunted Cosmopolitan Hotel before embarking on a ghost hunt.

The Rat Race Ale House on Hartlepool railway station is probably one of the country’s smallest pubs but has a good selection of ales, cider and perry and was North East Region Pub of the Year 2013.

Darlington has a range of trendy bars including Harvey’s Late Bar. Inside Out on Beaumont Street or The Keys in Skinnergate, which opened in November 2014, and has a restaurant and bar plus upstairs club, Institute.

For cocktails or special fizz there’s Crooner’s Champagne Bar or enjoy the heated roof top terrace of Hash Café Bar, Sloan’s or for a glass of expertly-selected wine go to Vesuvio.

Upstream lies Yarm, with its attractive Georgian High Street lined with cafes, bars and traditionalbut-stylish watering holes

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Real ale fans should look no further than Number Twenty 2, The Quakerhouse, The Britannia Inn, The Half Moon or The William Stead.

The Forum in Borough Road is Darlington’s home for live music since opening in 2004 and is run by a community interest company. It manages a busy programme of live music and entertainment.

Dance the night away in Redcar at the large capacity Aruba nightclub which has a choice of alternative music styles as well as hosting live bands and guest DJs or The Deck nightclub. Other favourites include late night bars Martha’s Vineyard and the Blue Lounge and The Livery or popular Wetherspoon’s pub The Plimsoll Line.

Real ale fans in Saltburn should look no further than The Victoria on Dundas Street, sample the sea views from The Marine or at the beach-side Ship Inn.

In Guisborough, favourite pubs include The Anchor Inn, The Priory and the newly refurbished Black Swan while the tiny fishing village of Staithes is well represented with a number of traditional hostelries, including The Captain Cook Inn. ❑

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Travelling by coach

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Travelling by air

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Newcastle International Airport

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OUR SPORTING LIFE!

Whether it’s watching or taking part, there’s always plenty of action here

Football, county and Test cricket, horse racing at Redcar and Sedgefield, sailing, hot air ballooning, fishing, offshore sailing, go-kart racing – the choice is yours.

Try life in the fast lane with laser gun games, white water rafting and motor racing at the Croft Driving Circuit. Or for a more leisurely time, visit one of the area’s 25 golf courses, including Teesside Golf Club and also Billingham Golf Club. If you are a serious walker, take the Lyke Wake Walk, the Cleveland Way or the Teesdale Way and marvel at the glorious scenery.

The Riverside Stadium has been home to Middlesbrough Football Club since the club’s move from Ayresome Park. There is also a professional club at Hartlepool.

Or have a day at the races at Redcar Racecourse or nearby Sedgefield, and join in the excitement of seeing top-class horses in action with the chance to beat the bookies and back a winner.

Not surprisingly, water sports are a big attraction. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can ride the rapids at the Teesside White Water Course in Thornaby where white water rafting, canoeing and kayaking are all on offer. The River Tees Watersports Centre in Stockton has facilities for rowing, jet

skiing, water skiing and dragon boating and expert tuition in a range of activities is available at the Watersports Centre in Castlegate Quay.

There are also swimming pools throughout the area, including Acklam Sports Centre, Rainbow Leisure Centre and The Neptune in Middlesbrough, The award-winning Dolphin Leisure Centre in Darlington has newlyrefurbished facilities with three leisure pools and water flumes whilst Splash! in Church Road, Stockton, also has two water flumes and a wave machine.

But for the real thing, the surf in Saltburn is reputed to be amongst the best outside Cornwall. The Surf Shop in the Pier Car Park is your starting point for surfing, boogie boarding and windsurfing. You can have an hour’s tuition or a day’s full surfing and all the equipment can be hired. Or be a spectator at one of the national events that take place in Saltburn during the autumn and winter months.

The coastline is also popular for sailing with favourite venues at Redcar’s Majuba beach, as well as the reservoir Scaling Dam and the South Gare at the mouth of the Tees. You can sample dinghy racing in the sheltered Middleton Harbour at Tees and Hartlepool Yacht Club, water skiing and even international power boat racing.

And there are plenty of suitable

Have a day at the races at Redcar Racecourse or nearby Sedgefield, and join in the excitement of seeing top-class horses in action

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The 100-acre Summerhill outdoor sports site on the western edge of Hartlepool includes the largest boulder park of its type in Northern Europe

places for fishing along the coastline and inland, with Scaling Dam stocked with rainbow trout and Lockwood Beck, a 60-acre fishery set in woodlands on the fringe of the North Yorkshire Moors National Park suitable for fly fishing. There’s fishing, too, at Jubilee Lakes at Redworth in Darlington. In complete contrast, enjoy the thrill of motor racing at Croft Circuit near Darlington or South Tees Motorsports Park or visit Chris Birkbeck International Rally School in Saltburn for top instructors and real rally cars.

For cycling or

mountain biking, head for Guisborough Forest with its three dedicated cycle routes suitable for different abilities and other bridleways through the forest suitable for more experienced riders. Eston Hills also offers challenging mountain bike rides.

Get your skates on at Billingham Forum Ice Arena which is open to the public for sessions where all ages and abilities are welcome. Or visit Albert Park Roller Skate Park or the recently opened Prissick Skate Plaza both in Middlesbrough.

The 100-acre Summerhill outdoor sports site on the western edge of Hartlepool includes the largest boulder park of its type in Northern Europe. There’s also BMX racing, orienteering, archery and equestrian galas. And for boys and girls of all ages, splash out with National Paintball Games at Durham Tees Valley Airport or drop in at Arena Quads and some super quad bike action at the site near Hartlepool.

And finally, for cricket lovers there’s nowhere better on a summer’s afternoon than The Riverside at Chester-le-Street, watching Durham in action in the County Championship and, more recently England Test matches. q

WELCOME TO DURHAM

Days out

Durham so captivated best-selling author Bill Bryson that he accepted an offer to become Chancellor of the University. He would later say: “Durham, I think, as anybody who has ever stepped out of the railway station and looked across the valley will appreciate, is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.”

Durham Cathedral, founded in 1093, is one of Europe’s finest examples of Norman architecture and, together with Durham Castle, is a designated World Heritage Site. The city itself is no less captivating with its many historic buildings, medieval alleyways and winding cobbled streets.

Further afield there many treasures to explore – such as Beamish Museum which has lovingly recreated historic snapshots of North East life, while, to learn more about the region’s illustrious railway heritage, try the free Locomotion, The National Railway Museum at Shildon.

There’s much natural scenery to admire along the rugged Durham Heritage Coast while to the west lies the dramatic Durham Dales of Teesdale and Weardale.

Eating out

Dining out in Durham offers a rich and varied choice you’d expect from a bustling university city, from restaurants to stylish cafes, gourmet dishes to hearty pub grub.

Award winning café, Vennels, is off a medieval courtyard and is famous among generations of students for its home baking and generous portions of cake. For fine dining sample the delights of Restaurant DH1, which offers great views across the city from the Victorian grandeur of Farnley Towers.

Shopping

Stylish boutiques, quirky craft shops and leading high street names all await the eager shopper in Durham. Dive into the charming hustle and bustle of the beautifully restored Victorian indoor market hall, where traders sell everything from linen to vintage bottles. Fowlers Yard in the cultural quarter offers visitors a rare chance to meet its artists and craftsfolk in their workspaces and watch them at work.

Away from the city, there’s bargains available at Dalton Park, near Seaham,

Dive into the charming hustle and bustle of the beautifully restored Victorian indoor market hall, where traders sell everything from linen to vintage bottles

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Durham, I think, as anybody who has ever stepped out of the railway station and looked across the valley will appreciate, is one of the most beautiful cities in the world

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which has more than 60 outlet shops, including M&S, Next and Gap.

Arts & culture

Follow countless pilgrims into cavernous Durham Cathedral and pause at the tombs of St Cuthbert and the Venerable Bede. Or simply stand and stare in wonder at an architectural and spiritual masterpiece. To learn more go to the free Durham World Heritage Site visitor centre on Owengate. A full programme of live events is available at The Gala Theatre in Durham which attracts some of the country’s top theatre companies, comedians, dancers and musicians.

The market town of Barnard Castle provides a real surprise for the visitor. The Bowes Museum is housed in a magnificent French château where you’ll find internationally renowned collections of art, textiles, furniture and items of both historic interest, including the amazing clockwork Silver Swan.

Nightlife

There’s no shortage of great pubs and bars in Durham which are at the heart of a vibrant nightlife. The riverside Boat Club is a great place to meet for food or drinks during the day and in the evening it transforms into a late night venue.

The split level piazza of the Walkergate complex offers a multicultural mix of restaurants and bars including Ebony Champagne and Cocktail Bar. It’s also home to the city’s largest nightclub, Loveshack. q

WELCOME TO MIDDLESBROUGH

Days out

The character of Middlesbrough is forged from its proud industrial past.

Once nicknamed ‘Ironopolis’, it exported steel around the globe with local firm Dorman Long building the Tyne Bridge in Newcastle and Sydney Harbour Bridge in Australia.

That spirit of innovation continues and while the town celebrates its industrial heritage it looks to the future

with world-class cultural attractions such as Mima – Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art – and the £2.7m sculpture Temenos. Standing 50 metres high by 120 metres long, it contains thousands of metres of woven steel wire designed to reflect the iconic Tees Transporter Bridge and the area’s manufacturing past.

It stands near another modern structure, The Riverside – home of

Middlesbrough FC – and a popular Saturday afternoon destination for its loyal fans.

While the 1911 Transporter Bridge still ferries vehicles and pedestrians across the Tees it has also found a new use, as one of the world’s most famous bungee sites!

Middlesbrough was the birthplace of one of the 18th century’s greatest explorers, Captain James Cook.

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STEVE GRAY

The Captain Cook Birthplace Museum, close to the site of the cottage where he was born, tells his amazing story and achievements.

Visit the grand Georgian surroundings of National Trust-owned Ormesby Hall, home to the Pennyman family for almost 400 years. A walk around its gardens and woodland is a must.

Eating out

Middlesbrough offers a huge choice of dining options from the traditional Turkish dishes of Meze Lounge to the Michelin-recommended Brasserie Hudson Quay. For something more traditional relax at The Olde Young Tea House which has over 60 different teas and blends as well as a delicious selection of inspired cake creations.

Shopping

Shop till you drop in Middlesbrough with four shopping centres containing all the familiar high street chains within a short distance of each other.

There’s also a tradition of home

grown independent retailers led by pioneering department store Psyche which is home to more than 200 designer brands. For vintage and retro clothing shops browse the ‘cool quarter’ around Baker Street.

Arts & culture

Mima is one of the country’s leading galleries for modern and contemporary art displaying world-class exhibitions including fine art, ceramics and contemporary jewellery.

To explore Middlesbrough’s rich heritage, ranging from social history to Victorian arts and crafts, visit the Edwardian Dorman Museum whose extensive collection is displayed across eight permanent galleries.

Nightlife

Revellers are drawn from across the Tees Valley to Middlesbrough’s energetic night life.

One major pull is The Middlesbrough Empire which acts as both club and live music venue. Since opening in 1991 it

Visit the grand Georgian surroundings of Ormesby Hall, home to the Pennyman family for almost 400 years

has played host to such DJs as Pete Tong and Paul Oakenfold and live acts including Kaiser Chiefs and Scissor Sisters. The Town Hall also hosts a variety of live music as well as theatre, comedy and dance.

There is a range of pubs and bars from traditional to contemporary, from the more intimate Mink or indie-inspired Medicine Bar to the ever popular hubs of The Southfield and The Dickens Inn. q

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WELCOME TO HARTLEPOOL

Days out

The history of Hartlepool stretches back a thousand years but until 1967 it was split into two boroughs, the old town on the Headland and the newer town of West Hartlepool.

Today the proud maritime town is united and has much to offer the modern visitor. The £60m Hartlepool Marina attracts hundreds of vessels from around the world, providing a truly international atmosphere.

The development is also home to an exciting array of quality waterside bars and restaurants while its promenade is the perfect destination for a romantic stroll.

Hartlepool Maritime Experience recreates an 18th century seaport in the time of Nelson and Napoleon, which makes for an absorbing family day out.

Here you can explore the historic quay and its realistic shops and houses.

You can also go aboard the lovinglyrestored HMS Trincomalee, which was launched in India in 1817, and is Britain’s oldest floating warship, or learn more about the area at the free Museum of Hartlepool whose star exhibit is the paddle steamer Wingfield Castle.

For a traditional family day out, head a short way down the coast to Seaton Carew and its golden sands and safe bathing waters. There’s also a good selection of fine fish and chip restaurants to top off a perfect day at the seaside.

Shopping Middleton Grange Shopping Centre is the North East’s third largest indoor shopping centre. Open seven days a week, there are 80 businesses

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For a traditional family day out, head a short way down the coast to Seaton Carew and its golden sands and safe bathing waters

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under one roof, including all the major high street names. There’s also a selection of stalls in its market hall area selling everything from fruit and veg to fashion accessories.

Hartlepool Marina is also home to three retail parks all within easy access of each other.

Arts & culture

Hartlepool Art Gallery is housed in a beautifully restored Victorian church in the heart of town which offers great views from its 100ft high clock tower. It displays works of national and regional significance and has a space for emerging artists to showcase their work.

The parish church of St Hilda on the Headland was built in the late 12th century and has a commanding position by the sea. As well as its impressive architecture, St Hilda’s played an important role in the region’s Christian heritage. Its visitor centre contains modern displays charting the history of the church and the Headland.

Eating out

Hartlepool Marina is a great place to eat day or night with a wide selection of cafes, bars and restaurants centred on Navigation Point serving up dishes from around the world.

Enjoy a view over the Historic Quay from the stylish bistro-pizzeria of Portofino or sample some tasty home cooking at The White Hart Inn in nearby Hart village

Nightlife

For a stylish evening set a course to Hartlepool Marina and the North Star café bar, popular with the smart set, or soak up a little Irish atmosphere at Rosie O’Grady’s.

The town centre has an array of late opening ‘party bars’ including Loons, Bar Paris and Yates. For something completely different why not enjoy a pint of real ale and a ghost hunt at the Headland’s haunted Cosmopolitan Hotel. q

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WELCOME TO REDCAR & CLEVELAND

Days out

With its stunning beaches, scenic countryside and wild uplands, Redcar and Cleveland is a popular outdoor playground.

Here you can explore the coastline, roam vast expanses of forest and moorland or delve into the area’s rich industrial and maritime heritage.

Redcar is a traditional seaside resort known for its sandy beaches and family-friendly fun. It may also be familiar to cinemagoers after being transformed into 1940s Dunkirk for

the 2006 Kiera Knightley film, Atonement.

Its skyline has also been changed by a £75m seafront redevelopment which includes the Redcar Beacon. The distinctive vertical pier provides a great view from its roof terrace.

The town needs no introduction to horseracing fans as the home of Redcar Racecourse, which holds 18 days of racing from April to November.

Further down the coast is the charming Victorian seaside town of Saltburn, which boasts a Surf School

and is also popular for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

The resort is also famous for the world’s oldest remaining water-powered tramway which has ferried visitors up and down the 120ft high cliffs since 1870. Below it is Britain’s most northerly surviving pleasure pier, still attracting thousands of visitors a year.

The ruins of Gisborough Priory can be seen in the market town of Guisborough while nearby Roseberry Topping gives stunning views across the Tees Valley.

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Eating out

Fish and chips are always better with some sea air and Redcar has a number of quality chippies serving fresh, just-cooked fare.

You can also dally at a number of cafes and restaurants or sample a Tees Valley institution. For no visit to Redcar is complete without a famous Lemon Top from Pacitto’s – rich dairy ice cream crowned with a blob of lemon sorbet.

Saltburn also offers a good selection of eateries. Many also come to enjoy its fish and chips and you’ll always find a queue at The Sea View Restaurant. For ice cream try the seafront Surf’s Up Café or for chocolate treats, the appropriately-named Chocolini’s. Signals Bistro has an extensive daytime and evening menu while deli/café Real Meals prides itself on its locally-sourced food.

For fine dining try The Kings Grill on Milton Street, which is also home to a number of other dining options.

Shopping

There’s a number of independent shops in Saltburn ranging from quirky crafts to gifts and art to antiques. Northern Lights Interiors is worth a browse, selling everything from chandeliers to works by local artists.

Historic Guisborough has a mix of well-known and independent shops along its cobbled Westgate, which is also home to its thrice-weekly market.

Arts & culture

Delve into the history of the area by visiting Winkies Castle folk museum in Marske, near Redcar, or the familyfriendly Kirkleatham Museum, near Redcar.

Nightlife

For clubbing in Redcar head to Aruba, a large capacity venue with a choice of

The charming Victorian seaside town of Saltburn boasts a Surf School and is also popular for windsurfing and kitesurfing

alternative music styles on split levels. Other favourites include late night bars Martha’s Vineyard or the Blue Lounge.

In Guisborough, favourite pubs include The Priory and the newly refurbished Black Swan while the tiny fishing village of Staithes has a good selection of pubs, including The Captain Cook Inn. q

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WELCOME TO DARLINGTON

Days out

The market town which found fame as the ‘Cradle of the Railways’ still reflects the many influences which have helped shape it over the centuries

It was founded in Anglo Saxon times on the banks of the River Skerne and by the Middle Ages developed a flourishing agricultural market, notable for the export of wool and textiles.

However, it was the arrival of families of the Quaker faith which laid the foundations for the leap into the industrial age where it played a pivotal role in the birth of the railways

It was Edward Pease who saw the need for a rail link between the South Durham coalfield and the port of Stockton and in 1825 the Stockton & Darlington Railway opened – the first time a steam locomotive hauled passengers on a public railway.

The town prospered as it became a centre for engineering and today George Stephenson’s ‘Locomotion Number One’, which hauled that historic train, takes pride of place at Head of Steam –Darlington Railway Museum.

Today it still retains some impressive Victorian architecture and is overlooked

by the 12th century St Cuthbert’s Church, one of the region’s largest and earliest churches.

Its position also makes it an ideal base from which to explore the North Yorkshire Moors and Dales and the Durham Dales of Teesdale and Weardale.

Eating out

There’s a varied choice of dining with an array of quality restaurants, pubs, independent cafes and wine bars. The Voodoo Cafe was voted best Latin Cafe outside London in 2012 and if you

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VISIT TEES VALLEY

The distinctive Civic Theatre has been entertaining audiences since 1907, but will close as part of a £12m project to restore it to its Edwardian splendour

fancy a dance, it also hosts weekly salsa and tango nights.

Meanwhile, lovers of Italian food are well catered for with the popular Al Forno, Foffanos and Sardis restaurants. If it’s fine dining you crave, then try Rockliffe Hall in nearby Hurworth or the bistro style of the hugely popular Michelin-starred Raby Hunt Restaurant in the hamlet of Summerhouse.

Shopping

The largely pedestrianised centre of Darlington still retains a traditional high street shopping experience from the flagship Binns department store to the indoor Cornmill Shopping Centre, home to 40 stores. However, there’s also a good range of independent and boutique shops, many dotted along upmarket Grange Road.

The spirit of its market town heritage continues with the beautiful Victorian Covered Market, which has been at the heart of the town since 1863. An open market is also held every Monday and Saturday.

Arts & culture

The distinctive Civic Theatre has been entertaining audiences since 1907, but will close towards the end of May (2016) as part of a £12m project to restore it to its Edwardian splendour. It is due to re-open in autumn 2017 as the 1,000 seater Darlington Hippodrome, reverting to its original name.

The town also plays host to the two-day Festival of Thrift in September which shows how reusing, recycling and up cycling can be fun. It also features leading and emerging artists, demonstrations, stalls, talks and workshops.

Nightlife

For cocktails, fizz or just a great pint of real ale, there’s plenty of trendy bars and pubs for all tastes. One of the newest is The Keys in Skinnergate, which also has a restaurant and bar plus upstairs club, Institute. There’s also Harvey’s Late Bar, club Inside Out, or for something a little bit special, Crooner’s Champagne Bar. q

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WELCOME TO STOCKTON

Days out

Given its riverside location, it’s no surprise Stockton is home to one of the country’s best white water experiences.

The Tees Barrage, built to stabilise water levels in the river’s tidal section, is home to the International White Water Centre and a big draw for thrill seekers. Flat water canoeing and sailing are also available.

Stockton may have a proud industrial past but it also has a fair share of modern wonders such as the £15m Infinity Bridge, a double arched mathematical concept-turned art work.

Reminders of its maritime and

industrial heritage are never far away. Captain Cook was born and brought up nearby and a replica of his renowned Bark Endeavour is moored at Castlegate Quay.

Preston Park Museum and Grounds at nearby Eaglescliffe is set in extensive grounds and is centred on Preston Hall, the former home of industrialist Robert Ropner. Today it’s an acclaimed familyfriendly attraction housing varied Teesside treasures and featuring a recreated Victorian street. There’s also lots of fun outside with a café, a fantastic adventure playground and nature reserve.

Eating out

There is an enviable selection of restaurants and cafes in the Stockton area. The excellent Café Lilli in Norton is a bistro-style eatery combining Italian flair with a taste of the Continent while The Waiting Room in Eaglescliffe is a vegetarian’s paradise offering innovative seasonal menus and organic wines, plus an eclectic choice of Sunday night entertainment.

The stylish market town of Yarm provides a picturesque back drop to a range of dining options including continental café Muse while Cena Trattoria serves an extensive menu of Italian dishes.

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Shopping

Stockton has two central shopping centres, Castlegate and Wellington Square, which has more than 40 stores, including Debenhams.

Out of town there’s the giant Teesside Shopping Park, situated just off the A66. As well as major names, it also has a multiplex cinema, bowling alley and casino.

Yarm’s wide and largely-cobbled high street offers a delightful setting in which to browse the many boutiques and independent stores, including familyowned department store Strickland & Holt which has been a fixture for more than 150 years.

Arts & culture

Stockton Arts Centre, or ARC, is a thriving multi-arts venue offering a full programme of professional live performances and film over three floors while The Forum in Billingham also

offers a variety of entertainment from theatre to ballet, musicals to comedy.

The two towns have also become world famous as the hosts of two annual events held every summer – the Stockton International Riverside Festival and Billingham International Folklore Festival.

Nightlife

KU Bar in Stockton has earned a deserved reputation for the quality of its live music scene by showcasing top local musical talent and attracting up and coming acts.

Another venue for live music is the 200 capacity Georgian Theatre and Green Room, managed by Tees Music Alliance., which stages a variety of genres from folk to punk and indie rock.

Glamorous Yarm is the place to be seen and it also has the added attraction that most of its trendy pubs and bars are all situated along the High Street. One popular destination is restaurant, pub and nightclub, The Keys. q

Yarm’s wide and largely-cobbled high street offers a delightful setting in which to browse the many boutiques and independent stores

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LET’S EXPLORE!

Durham Tees Valley is a great base for exploring further afield. Whichever direction you take, you’ll find intriguing people and places

Northumberland

History lovers will find the north east’s fascinating and sometimes colourful past celebrated with gusto across the region. Head up the coast to Northumberland and the Holy Island of Lindisfarne which is rich in Christian heritage.

Hadrian’s Wall is another must-do historical attraction, as is the ancient Percy family home of Alnwick Castle. Nearby Alnwick Garden is another choice attraction. Here, contemporary design and gorgeous green spaces are combined and visitors can explore water sculptures, fascinating plants and the

world’s largest wooden treehouse. For rural tranquility, Kielder Water and Forest Park in Northumberland is the perfect option and runs a programme of fun events that will keep the kids happy too.

Yorkshire

Head south for historic York and its bustling 15th century Shambles. This rabbit’s warren of boutiques, art galleries and teashops is ideal for losing yourself for an afternoon, and don’t forget to take a trip to York Minster, northern Europe’s largest gothic cathedral. Slightly closer to home is the bustling seaside town

Contemporary design and gorgeous green spaces are combined and visitors can explore water sculptures, fascinating plants and the world’s largest wooden treehouse

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Cosmopolitan and proud, this is an area buzzing with energy and verve. Spearheading Tyneside’s cultural wave are BALTIC, the centre for contemporary art and the magnificent music venue Sage, Gateshead

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of Whitby, famous for its association with Bram Stoker and Captain Cook, as well as delicious fish and chips.

Newcastle-Gateshead

Newcastle-Gateshead is around 40 miles from Tees Valley. Cosmopolitan and proud, this is an area buzzing with energy and verve. Spearheading Tyneside’s cultural wave are BALTIC, the centre for

contemporary art and the magnificent music venue, Sage Gateshead. Walking distance from these attractions is Centre for Life, an innovative hands-on science museum and research centre, which carries out pioneering work in stem cell biology, genetics and regenerative medicine.

Kids will love the underwater safari at the Blue Reef Aquarium in Tynemouth where seahorses, sharks, giant octopus, frogs, otters and many

more fascinating creatures live. Also within easy reach is Sunderland with its pioneering National Glass Centre, an impressive building housing regular exhibitions and tours including glass-blowing demonstrations.

Lake District Venture westwards and the Lake District with its romantic history and breathtaking scenery is a real treat. And remember, in this part of the world you’re never far from a stretch of unspoiled coast. q

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IF YOU’RE PLANNING TO STAY LONGER…

Whether it’s a house move, holiday home or seaside apartment, property in this region is great value

The town’s stunning multi-million pound Marina complex hosts the award-winning Historic Quay, a faithful reproduction of an 18th century seaport

Back in 2007, TV’s Location, Location, Location voted Middlesbrough the number one worst place to live in the UK. Hartlepool also came in at number 20 on the list of worst places to live. Many locals disagree! Durham Tees Valley is an exciting and vibrant area which has everything to offer!

Regeneration has long been a part of Middlesbrough’s development, with the Middlehaven scheme giving a much needed facelift to the Docklands area, the £500 million project being used to bring new business and housing to the area. Mima, the Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art is just one of the many delights that Middlesbrough has to offer. Hartlepool is an old town steeped in 1,000 years of history. The town’s stunning multi-million pound Marina complex hosts the award-winning Historic Quay, a faithful reproduction of an 18th century seaport portraying life at the time of Nelson and Napoleon and the Battle of Trafalgar. Hartlepool is also home to the HMS Trincomalee, Europe’s oldest floating warship.

Another area of the Tees Valley that has had TV fame recently is Darlington. ‘Medieval Ulnaby’ sits on the site of a buried medieval village, near Walworth, in which Channel 4’s Time Team were invited to investigate the veritable maze of lumps and bumps – walls, boundaries, tracks, ditches, buildings, house plots and enclosures that sit hidden under the grass in the field next to the 17th century farmhouse.

Tees Valley is well connected at the heart of the north east transport infrastructure. Major transport hubs, including Durham Tees Valley Airport and Teesport – the second largest port in the UK – are all within a short distance,

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making travel exceptionally easy.

Just a stone’s throw from Teesside you have the Yorkshire Dales and North Yorkshire Moors, with delights such as Aysgarth Falls and Roseberry Topping. Travel in the other direction and you can make the most of the North East’s beautiful coastline, Seaton Carew, Redcar, Saltburn and Whitby have all passed Marine Conservation Society (MCS) water quality tests.

The property market has suffered a few turbulent years. Whilst house sales have generally fallen nationwide the rental market across Teesside is booming. Prospective tenants are coming from all walks of life, first time buyers that don’t have a deposit but want a place of their own are opting to rent as an interim measure. Professional couples that may need to move around with work, and cannot risk purchasing a property that they may need to sell in six or twelve month’s time, to people that have sold their property and simply want to rent for a period, before committing to another mortgage.

From people seeking a short term let, to people looking to rent for the next few years, the majority of tenants now look to stay in a rental property for well over a year, with nearly three out of five staying in place for more than 18 months.

Prospective tenants are coming from all walks of life, first time buyers that don’t have a deposit but want a place of their own are opting to rent as an interim measure

Tenants are now realising that it is a renter’s market and are much more focused on their requirements. They are also expecting a higher class of property, new build properties are a popular choice in today’s market and are very quickly snapped up. Landlords are changing with these times too. Where once the majority of landlords had a property portfolio, we are now taking new instructions from landlords who may want to rent their own homes rather than sell with negative equity, or builders that can’t sell properties within a development. The Private Sector Rental across Teesside can be divided up into three main categories.

Student and DSS properties are widely available in the town centres. Terraced properties close to colleges and universities where landlords can rent out entire properties or individual rooms. Rent on these properties is reasonably low to accommodate the small

budget of students or unemployed tenants.

High end luxury homes are usually more rural, larger properties which will appeal to high end property hunters. Popular areas are Wynyard, Yarm, Eaglescliffe and Redmarshall. All which have a village or rural feel, but have good access to major road networks, making commuting exceptionally easy. These properties can command a higher rental, and can offer the ultimate in luxury living.

The most popular category is your every day rental, properties ranging from £450pcm to £900pcm. This category has the highest amount of competition and the widest rage of properties, everything from your 1 to 2 bed apartments, 2 and 3 bed semi-detached properties and your 4 or more bed detached houses. Towns and suburbs are popular areas, where schools and local amenities are on hand, providing the perfect base for families and professionals. q

DURHAM BID; ING IMAGE