Leisure and culture news

County Durham has today launched its bid to be named UK City of Culture 2025 - with the hope the accolade will provide a major boost for the whole north east region.

Young people from The Durham Federation school in Ushaw Moor will produce a major art installation at this year's Lumiere Festival in November.

Councillors and stakeholders are to be given the opportunity to contribute to a review of the future of a treasured regimental collection.

Admiral Nelson, the Duke of Wellington and Queen Victoria are just some of the well-known characters heading to County Durham as part of the Horrible Histories UK tour.

We are offering advice on accessing our services in light of the changes to Covid restrictions on Monday (19 July).

Library members can record story times with their children through a new free digital storytelling service.

We are running National Pool Lifeguard Qualifications at our leisure centres.

Gala Durham will be going on tour this summer with a family performance to enchant audiences across County Durham.

Young people are being encouraged to make a splash with free swimming sessions at County Durham's leisure centres.

Three acclaimed authors will be talking about their latest novels in an annual reading event.

Cinema and comedy are now on the menu for visitors to a newly refurbished town hall in County Durham.

A guest speaker will explore the past of a respected County Durham family in a history presentation, inspired by recently uncovered documents.

Visitors can once again discover what life was like in Roman times as a historic County Durham fort prepares to reopen.

Television favourite Rosemary Shrager is looking forward to cooking for the crowds at a County Durham food festival this summer.

A historic town hall is set to host its first exhibition since its refurbishment, at which families and visitors will be able to explore the fascinating secrets of the Roman gladiators.

Swimming memberships are a great option if you swim regularly, and don't use the gym or group exercise classes.

People looking to keep fit while staying safe indoors during the coronavirus pandemic can now take part in free online exercise classes.

People hoping to kick off 2021 by finding out more about what lurks in their family tree can do so through new online sessions with Durham County Record Office.

Creative craft sessions and a spook-tastic story will be available online for families to enjoy this half term.

The unique architecture of a popular County Durham park will become the focal point of a new upcoming art project.