Located in the rolling countryside of Lower Teesdale, Headlam Hall Hotel & Spa is ideally situated for exploring one of the most beautiful and accessible areas of the Durham Dales. Surrounded by peaceful countryside, the hotel provides the perfect base for discovering charming villages, historic landmarks, scenic walks and fascinating attractions across County Durham and beyond.
Just a short drive away is the picturesque market town of Barnard Castle, where the River Tees flows beneath the impressive remains of the town's medieval castle. With independent shops, cafés, galleries and historic attractions, Barnard Castle makes for a wonderful day out during your stay at Headlam Hall.
Within half an hour of the hotel, guests can discover a wealth of must-see attractions, many of which host events, exhibitions and seasonal activities throughout the year.
A highlight for many visitors is The Bowes Museum, located on the outskirts of Barnard Castle. This magnificent French château houses one of the finest collections of European art, fashion, ceramics and decorative arts outside London. Its famous Silver Swan automaton remains one of the museum's most treasured exhibits and continues to delight visitors from around the world.
Just 15 minutes from Barnard Castle is Raby Castle, one of England's finest medieval castles and the family seat of Lord Barnard. With its impressive architecture, beautiful grounds, deer park, shops, cafés and year-round programme of events, Raby Castle is a wonderful place to explore during a countryside break at Headlam Hall.
For those interested in Britain's industrial heritage, Locomotion at Shildon offers a fascinating insight into the history of rail travel. As part of the Science Museum Group, this free attraction houses an impressive collection of historic railway vehicles and celebrates County Durham's important role as the birthplace of the modern railway.
Nearby Bishop Auckland has become an increasingly popular destination thanks to the restoration of Auckland Castle, the opening of the Spanish Gallery and the Auckland Tower, which offers spectacular views across the surrounding countryside. The town is also home to Kynren, the acclaimed outdoor spectacular that brings 2,000 years of English history to life.
The Durham Dales are also famous for their natural beauty and dark skies. The North Pennines National Landscape is recognised as one of England's most spectacular areas for stargazing, with designated Dark Sky Discovery Sites and the Grassholme Observatory offering unforgettable experiences beneath some of the clearest skies in the country.
During the day, the dramatic landscapes of Upper Teesdale are perfect for exploring. High Force, England's tallest waterfall, is one of the region's most spectacular natural attractions, while nearby Low Force and the surrounding walking routes provide opportunities to experience the beauty of the River Tees and the wider Durham Dales.