Country Glamping Co.

For one of the biggest outdoor spectaculars in England, head for Kynren (10 minutes' drive; open summer only) to learn about the history of County Durham as performed by a cast of hundreds. To discover some of that history in reality, tour Auckland Castle (10 minutes) to see the ornate Throne Room and St Peter’s Chapel, or spend an afternoon in the Bowes Museum (20 minutes) watching the famed Silver Swan automaton in action. To embrace some fresh north-country air, take the scenic hike up to High Force Waterfall (35 minutes’ walk from Bowlees Visitor Centre, itself half an hour’s drive from Country Glamping Co.), or don the hiking boots and strike out into rugged Weardale (20 minutes). If you have kids in tow, try Hamsterley Forest (10 minutes), where rambles lead to a Gruffalo-themed sculpture trail. Historic Durham (half an hour) certainly warrants a day’s exploration of its castle, which was built over many centuries, the medieval cathedral (used as a set in the Harry Potter film franchise), and colourful jewellery in the Oriental Museum. When you’re done with sightseeing, the city’s buzzing, hilly streets are packed with bars and restaurants for a well-earned rest.