Looking to keep the family entertained this weekend, March 1-3 2019? We've rounded up the main family-friendly things to do in and around Durham this weekend.
With lots of venues from museums to theatres putting on family events, there's usually plenty from which to choose. Here are all the Durham family events we could find for this weekend, March 1-3.
Durham family events #1: Horrible Histories, Durham Gala Theatre
The ever-popular Horrible Histories comes to Durham's Gala Theatre this weekend. The series created by Terry Deary is a collection of books, a successful TV series, and has also conquered the stage. Suitable for ages five and upwards, this brand new West End show from the Apollo Theatre has never toured before, and features all new scenes. To quote a phrase, 'It’s the history of Britain with the nasty bits left in'.
Horrible Histories tickets cost £15.50 adults, £14 concessions, £54 for family tickets, and £12.50 per person for groups of 10 or more. Horrible Histories Durham is on Sunday March 3 at 1.30-4pm. Book on the Gala website here.
Durham family events #2: Durham Doggy Social, Whisky River
Has your family got a four-legged friend (not a horse...)? From 12-5pm on Sunday March 3 2019, you can enjoy a dog walk along the Durham riverside, then have a hot drink and slice of cake in the company of other dog owners - all for a good cause.
Run by Whisky River bar and cafe which is on the riverside in Prince Bishops Shopping Centre near Elvet Bridge, they will be handing out Durham city walking maps and collecting donations for their nominated charity, Stray Aid. A chance to socialise with your best pal in the company of like-minded people. Remember to take leads and poo bags.
Durham family events #3: Spring Trail, Raby Castle
The Spring Trail at Raby Castle is ending this weekend, so if you haven't already been then this is your last chance. The theme of the half term activities has been birds, and the Spring Trail is a chance for children to play the ‘Who am I?’ bird quiz in the 200 acre deer park. The trail can be manageable with an off-road buggy or wheelchair as it will require walking over some uneven and possibly muddy ground. There is hard standing access close to each area of the trail. Don't forget to claim your prize back in the gift shop.
Raby Castle Spring Trail tickets are included in the price of the Raby Castle Park entry, which costs £4.50 adults, concessions £4, five-15-year-olds £2.50, family tickets (two adults and up to three children) £15. Under fives go free. The Raby Castle tearooms, gift shop and woodland play area are free admission.
Durham events #4: Brilliant Badges, Palace Green Library
As part of its free exhibition, Catch Your Breath, the Palace Green Library is hosting Brilliant Badges, a children's event where families can visit the Catch Your Breath exhibition then make a brilliant badge inspired by what they've seen.
Brilliant Badges takes place at Palace Green Library on Saturday and Sunday, March 2-3, from 1-3pm.
Durham events #5: Milkshake Monkey's Musical, Empire Theatre Consett
Your children will know this one. This Milkshake! Live performance is Milkshake Monkey's Musical, which features songs, funky dances and family fun. It takes place on Saturday March 2 at 12pm and 3.30pm. Adult tickets cost £15.50 and children £13.50, or family tickets are £54. You can book here.
Durham family events #6: Signs of Spring, Durham Botanic Gardens
This event seems like an obvious choice; even though we're only just into March, the weather is currently so good that there are already plenty of signs of Spring. Starting this Friday, March 1 2019, you can grab a spotter sheet leaflet from the visitors centre and then see how many of the listed signs of Spring you can find around the garden. My guess is that there'll be quite a few already.
Tickets for entry into the Durham Botanic Garden, which is on South Road, cost £4 for adults and £3 for concessions. Seniors and student tickets are £1.50. Carers and infants go free. The Durham Botanic Gardens are open every day, 10am-4pm.
Durham family events #7: Hina Matsuri, Durham Oriental Museum
See a complete set of traditional Hina Matsuri dolls, only displayed for a short time each year, in the run up to the Hina Matsuri, and create your own Emperor and Empress dolls to take home.
Hina Matsuri is Doll's Day, when a set of ornamental dolls representing the Emperor, Empress, attendants, and musicians in traditional court dress of the Heian period are placed on red shelves.
It takes place on Saturday March 2 between 1-3pm. Durham Oriental Museum tickets are £1.50 adults, 75p children and over 60s, and £3.50 families (two adults and up to three children).
Want your event included? Then contact us.