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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Travel
Helen Pickles

Best hotels in County Durham 2023: Where to stay for pub walks, historic charm and family holidays

Lumley Castle

There’s far more to Durham than its namesake city – historic and photogenic though it is. Just three hours by train from London, the small but perfectly formed county in North East England has a beautiful, bracing coastline, alongside miles of soft, green hinterland and heather moorland. With walking and cycling trails that criss-cross the county and views that stretch for miles, Country Durham’s great outdoors are ripe for exploring, whether on two feet or two wheels.

But there’s more than breathtaking countryside and coast on offer. You’ll discover picture-postcard market towns scattered among the Dales, boasting indie shops, cute tea rooms and cosy pubs. You certainly won’t be stuck for finding a warming drink and delicious food on your doorstep.

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