Washington Arts Centre

Washington Arts Centre sits in the heart of County Durham, offering proper contemporary art exhibitions and live performances in a town that doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think culture. The centre hosts rotating shows - everything from local artists to touring exhibitions - plus theatre, comedy, and music events throughout the year. There's a café on-site too, which is always a bonus when you've got kids in tow or just need a decent coffee between gallery visits.

It's worth a stop if you're into visual art or catching live performances, though I'd ring ahead to check what's on before you make the trip - the programme varies season to season. Allow a couple of hours if there's an exhibition you fancy, less if you're just popping in for the café and a look around.

Located near Durham, you're well positioned to combine this with a park stay at Finchale Abbey or Beamish Holiday Park, both within five miles. Beamish itself - the open-air museum - makes a solid day out for families, so you could easily tie the arts centre into a broader visit to the area. It's not a "spend your whole morning here" kind of place, but as part of a cultural mix with Durham's cathedral and museums nearby, it rounds out a decent break without feeling like you've overdone it.