Darlington Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Photo by Ian  Hall
Photo by Ian  Hall
Photo by Ian  Hall
Photo by Ian  Hall
Photo by Ian  Hall
Darlington is a historic market town in the Tees Valley, with the town centre newly pedestrianised allowing you to stroll around at your own leisure.

With so many things to see and do in Darlington, and indeed the wider Durham area, Darlington is a great base to explore what this English county has to offer. From townhouse hotels to cosy country bed & breakfasts and guesthouses, there is a range of accommodation choices to suit all tastes and budgets.

Darlington has become a smart choice for shoppers with a lot independent and boutique designer shops for a town of this size, making it easy to find something different. For a night out, enjoy the relaxed friendly atmosphere of Darlington town centre, with an abundance of restaurants and stylish bars, which offer that friendly north east welcome.

Discover the Famous Railway Heritage

The people of Darlington are immensely proud of the town’s world famous rail heritage, so a visit to the Railway Centre and Museum is a must. The museum explains the history of the railways and the impact they had on the people of Darlington. There are also plenty of interactive exhibits that children will enjoy.

Raby Castle in Darlington is fantastic. Take a tour and learn more about its previous inhabitants. The large gardens are lovely with deer roaming freely, providing a wonderful setting. Take the kids along to witness these animals close up.

Just south of Darlington town is the Croft Circuit, which has a year round programme of car and bike racing. If you are a fan of high speed competition, the highlight of the season is the annual British Touring Car Championship weekend in Darlington.

Get to Know Durham

Venture further into Durham and stop of at Durham Cathedral, a world heritage site. The cathedral is a well preserved with plenty to see and admire throughout. Climb its never-ending spiral staircase and be rewarded with fantastic views over Durham at the top.

Bowes Museum should not be missed either a popular attraction for fashion designers. Each room has lots of outfits, furniture and decorations on show and is well worth a visit.

Hardwick Park in Sedgefield is great for a day trip with the whole family. With a mini assault course, ducks to be fed and a variety of walks to choose from, there is plenty to keep the whole family entertained.

Hall Garth Hotel, BW Signature Collection
Hall Garth Hotel, BW Signature Collection
3 out of 5
Coatham Mundeville, Darlington, England
The price is £53 per night from 18 May to 19 May
£53
includes taxes & fees
18 May - 19 May
Stay at this 3-star golf hotel in Darlington. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular ...
8/10 Very Good! (568 reviews)
"Fabulous room.. i was amazed how good the room was considerung the age if the buildin brilliant... ill be back for sure Lovely reception ladies very helpfull"

Reviewed on 16 Apr 2025

Hall Garth Hotel, BW Signature Collection
Mercure Darlington Kings Hotel
Mercure Darlington Kings Hotel
4 out of 5
9-12 Priestgate, Darlington, England
The price is £69 per night from 21 Apr to 22 Apr
£69
includes taxes & fees
21 Apr - 22 Apr
Stay at this 4-star eco-certified hotel in Darlington. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, 2 restaurants and 2 bars/lounges. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. ...
8/10 Very Good! (842 reviews)
"Lovley hotel very nice"

Reviewed on 27 Mar 2025

Mercure Darlington Kings Hotel
Best Western Walworth Castle Hotel
Best Western Walworth Castle Hotel
3 out of 5
Walworth, Darlington, England
The price is £63 per night from 4 May to 5 May
£63
includes taxes & fees
4 May - 5 May
Stay at this 3-star eco-certified hotel in Darlington. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the property ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (379 reviews)
A real gem with great history
"I was born near here and had no idea this property was here. I loved the position of it, the history and the excellent service."

Reviewed on 15 Apr 2025

Best Western Walworth Castle Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Spacious 3-bed House in Darlington
Spacious 3-bed House in Darlington
3.5 out of 5
Darlington, England
Stay at this 3.5-star holiday home in Darlington. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a garden. Popular attractions The Northern Echo Arena and Darlington Civic ...
Spacious 3-bed House in Darlington
Huge 6-Bed Apartment in Darlington Centre
Huge 6-Bed Apartment in Darlington Centre
Darlington, ENG
Stay at this apartment in Darlington. Enjoy patios and an in-room coffee maker. Popular attractions Raby Castle and St Cuthbert Church are located nearby.
10/10 Exceptional! (6 reviews)
Good cozy stay
"The property was"

Reviewed on 26 Jan 2025

Huge 6-Bed Apartment in Darlington Centre
White House Cottages
White House Cottages
3.5 out of 5
The White House, Brandon Village, Durham, England
Stay at this 3.5-star cottage in Durham. Enjoy free parking and a computer station. Popular attractions Brancepeth Castle Golf Club and Oriental Museum are located ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (33 reviews)
"Fabulous location & accommodation, thoroughly enjoyed !"

Reviewed on 25 Aug 2024

White House Cottages
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Reviews of Darlington

4.1
Top destination
5 - Excellent
22
5 - Excellent 34%
4 - Good
30
4 - Good 46%
3 - Okay
9
3 - Okay 14%
2 - Disappointing
4
2 - Disappointing 6%
1 - Terrible
0
1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

A good town for shopping.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Darlington is a very vibrant and friendly town.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller

Area quiet and peaceful.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Great leisure facilities! Loads of bars, restaurants, shops and cinema close by. I went to meet friends and know immediate area well. Hadn't realised the hotel was so close to centre!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Great place to live in and visit.

3/5 - Okay

Mr

This Q. is not relevant. The property is in a rural village miles away from Darlington, a busy large town!

Cities near Darlington