Durham Cathedral, Bishop Auckland's Spanish Gallery and Beamish Living Museum are some of County Durham's top cultural attractions.
And there is hope that these, along with a year-long programme of arts, culture, sport, science and economics, can bring home the title of UK City of Culture 2025.
The official bid has been finalised and to celebrate its submission a giant inflatable artwork, created by local artist Steve Messam, kicks off a tour of the county starting at Durham Cathedral this morning.