Enjoy The

Gardens & Outdoor Spaces

Explore the peaceful gardens and courtyard at the Durham Dales Centre — a welcoming outdoor setting with landscaped paths, sculptures and family-friendly spaces to relax, wander and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Explore Our Gardens

The gardens and outdoor spaces at the Durham Dales Centre offer a calm and inviting place to spend time outdoors. With a mix of landscaped planting, stone pathways, open courtyard areas and creative features, they provide a relaxed setting for visitors to explore at their own pace, whether you’re visiting with family or simply enjoying the surroundings of the Durham Dales.

Family-Friendly Gardens

Families will find plenty to enjoy at the Durham Dales Centre. Our attractive gardens and courtyard provide safe spaces for children to explore, with plenty to see along the way. Young visitors can follow the AONB North Pennines bug trail or take part in our very own animal trail around the grounds, adding a sense of adventure to every visit.

The outdoor layout makes it easy for children to move freely while adults relax nearby.

Art, Nature & Outdoor Interest

As you explore the gardens, you’ll discover characterful outdoor features and sculptures set amongst planting and stonework, creating points of interest throughout the grounds. These thoughtful details add to the sense of creativity and connection with nature that runs through the Durham Dales Centre.

Seasonal planting ensures the gardens look different throughout the year, from fresh spring growth to colourful summer displays and autumn textures.

Hear What Our Visitors Say

John T

Made to feel welcome here. Worth a visit if in the area.

Eddie730

Exceptionally friendly staff make your visit worthwhile.

Christine4521

The staff were lovely, very friendly, and it was a great stop for us - we will definitely return.

Cam

I can recommend this place to everyone . Well done Dales Centre.

Penny H

The facilities are warm, welcoming and I don't think we could have found a better place for what turned into a two hour + visit! I highly recommend it.