Durham-UK

Home > home_page

home_page

by

Durham Champions come together at Auckland Tower

People standing next to a Durham Champions sign at The Light Durham

Our Durham Story continues to gain momentum as partners from across the county gathered for the latest Durham Champions event at The Light.

The event, which took place this week, brought together ambassadors committed to sharing the Durham Story, through an exciting new ‘Team Durham’ approach to raising the county’s profile and appeal with key audiences essential for the economic success of the place.

The event brought to life one of the four chapters of the Durham Story – A special city that attracts and radiates, with the audience hearing about exciting developments and success stories first-hand from speakers who are leading them.

Tony Guillan, Artistic Director of The Light, opened the session by highlighting the regional and international significance of the county’s newest world-class cultural venue.

Year of the Normans 2027, the global celebration and opportunity for the county was then discussed by Giles Gasper, Professor in High Medieval History at Durham University.

And the final speaker, Katie Strachan, Film Office Manager at North East Screen shared the county’s screen industry success, the growth of the sector and how businesses can get involved.

Jonathan Moreland, Managing Partner at long-standing Durham-City based law firm Swinburne Maddison chaired the event: “As a proud Durham business and Durham Champion I was delighted to be asked to chair the latest meeting. What really stood out was the passion people have for our county. The audience was made up of businesses, organisations and individuals who have given up their time to support the county, as they want to play their part in its success, and that’s a really powerful thing.

Durham City plays a pivotal role in attracting visitors, relocators, businesses and investment to the county as a whole. And having the opportunity to highlight that part of the Durham Story through some of the incredible things that are happening was truly inspiring.”

The Durham Champions programme places people at its heart, empowering stakeholders from across sectors to become advocates for the county. As the session closed, attendees were encouraged to continue spreading the word, using #OurDurhamStory on social channels, to help further build the county’s image, identity and reputation as a great place to live, work, invest, visit and study.

The next Durham Champions meeting will take place in January, with further details to be announced soon.

Register as a Durham Champion and sign up for the Durham Story e-newsletter.

by

Kynren – The Storied Lands named top new European attraction

CGI of what the Storied Lands will look like at Kynren.

Kynren – The Storied Lands in Bishop Auckland has been named a European Top New Attraction at the 2026 Parksmania Awards, placing the UK’s first live action show park alongside the continent’s leading visitor attractions.

The international award was presented to Kynren Chief Executive Anna Warnecke and Chief Technical Officer Graham Emerson at the 25th annual Parksmania Awards ceremony at Movieland Park near Verona, Italy, on 9th October.

The awards are organised by Italian attractions publication Parksmania and recognise parks, experiences and new attractions across Europe. Previous recipients of European awards include Disneyland Paris, Europa Park, Parc Astérix and Puy du Fou.

Kynren – The Storied Lands opened in Bishop Auckland on 18th July, creating a new daytime attraction alongside the established Kynren – An Epic Tale of England night show.

Five uniquely immersive productions bring history, myth and legend to life. They include The Lost Feather, staged in a purpose built arena inspired by a giant bird’s nest; equestrian spectacle The Trusty Steed; the water-based Legend of the Wear; Land of the Vikings and the Victorian Imaginariums.

Anna Warnecke, Chief Executive of Kynren, said: “To receive international recognition in our very first season is a wonderful moment for everyone who has helped bring The Storied Lands to life.

“We knew when we started that we were attempting something very different. There are extraordinary theme parks across Europe, but our attractions bring the thrills and excitement of live performances directly to audiences.

“To see that recognised alongside some of the best new attractions in Europe is enormously rewarding and a real vote of confidence in what we have created here in Bishop Auckland.”

The Storied Lands builds on the success of Kynren – An Epic Tale of England, which celebrated its 100th performance during 2026.

Together they allow visitors to spend the day exploring The Storied Lands before watching the night show unfold across Kynren’s vast outdoor stage.

Parksmania is an Italian online publication specialising in theme parks and visitor attractions. Its annual awards are now in their 25th year and recognise attractions which its judging commission believes have stood out during the season.

In 2025, European Top New Attraction awards went to new experiences at Disneyland Paris, Parc Astérix, Futuroscope, Puy du Fou France, Puy du Fou España, Walibi Holland, Walibi Belgium and Fantasiana.

by

Durham University and Microsoft launch AI Skills Centre of Excellence 

Professor Karen O’Brien, Vice-Chancellor and Warden, Durham University and Darren Hardman, Corporate Vice President and CEO, Microsoft UK and Ireland at the official opening of the AI Skills Centre of Excellence.

Durham University and Microsoft have officially opened a new AI Skills Centre of Excellence where businesses and communities, and University staff and students, will be able to develop the essential skills needed for a future supported by Artificial Intelligence.

The Centre will bring together expertise, training, tools, and support to help people of different backgrounds and levels of experience build confidence in using AI in ways that are practical, responsible, and relevant to global and local challenges.

The launch brough together partners from Durham County Council, North East Mayoral Strategic Authority, Confederation of British Industry and regional businesses.

In its first stage, the Centre will contribute to preparing Durham University students and graduates for a rapidly evolving job market, and support University staff to explore new ways of enhancing teaching, learning, research and professional services through AI.

In future phases, there will be opportunities for businesses, public sector agencies, and community partners to engage with emerging technologies, helping build and strengthen AI capability and growth across the region. The physical hub will be a lively centre offering workshops, training events, and other sessions focused on AI and associated technologies. 

The Centre will become part of how Durham University is driving digital innovation and AI development in North East England, including through the North East AI Growth Zone, and its partnerships with the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority, Durham County Council, and others.

Professor Karen O’Brien, Vice-Chancellor and Warden of Durham University, said: “Durham graduates are highly sought after by employers because of how well we prepare them for the world of work. AI is changing the workplace, and this pioneering partnership with Microsoft, as well as other initiatives we are taking, will help our students continue to innovate, lead, and excel.

“This partnership also has huge potential to benefit our local businesses, agencies, and communities, and we will say more about how they can engage and learn as the Centre develops.”

Darren Hardman, Corporate Vice President and CEO, Microsoft UK and Ireland, said: “I believe AI can create new opportunities for young people across the country, no matter their background or where they grew up. This long-term commitment to building AI skills for students, staff and the wider community is a demonstration of Durham University’s leadership and contribution to achieving that goal. I know I speak for the whole team when I say Microsoft is proud to partner with the University and support the development of this AI Skills Centre of Excellence as it serves people in the North East for years to come.”

Through the Centre, Durham University and Microsoft will work together to:

  • Support students in developing AI skills valued by employers.

  • Help staff enhance teaching, research and ways of working supported by AI.

  • Create learning and development opportunities for businesses and public sector organisations.

  • Promote responsible, inclusive and equitable access to AI skills and technologies.

  • Contribute to regional and national AI capability and economic growth.

by

Future is bright for The Light following opening weekend 

People standing at the Light exhibition with rainbow colours in the background

Visitors of all ages took their first steps into The Light, Durham’s brand-new cultural attraction, as it officially opened its doors to the public.

An unforgettable programme of activities was held across Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 August to celebrate the launch of our venue, which serves as the region’s latest destination for culture, creativity and community.

Officially opened by our Chairman, Cllr Robbie Rodiss, the building’s celebrations brought live performances, including music from Pittington Brass Band, acrobatics by Cequin Circus, and live sets from some of the North East’s talented singer-songwriters.

Children and their families also got to explore new sights and experiences with science inspired lawn games.

Inside The Light, visitors made their mark on the venue by contributing to a collaborative illuminated sculpture inspired by moths drawn to light.

They were also invited to experiment with fluorescent materials within a glowing creative playground, where their drawings and messages will become part of an ever-changing light installation.

And guests got to see the venue’s inaugural exhibitions for the very first time – We Are The Durhams: The Durham Light Infantry Exhibition and Victory Over the Sun: Encounters with Light.

A huge success

Cllr Rodiss said: “This has been a long-anticipated day for Durham City and I’m pleased to say that the opening celebrations for The Light have been a huge success.

“The Light is a venue that not only honours the building’s past, but showcases its future as a centre for art, innovation, and history. This has been a significant investment into Durham’s cultural offering, and we are delighted to have already received an incredibly positive response from visitors.

“We can’t wait to welcome more people into The Light and inspire them through an amazing programme that is planned for the rest of the year and beyond.”

Victory Over the Sun: Encounters with Light brings together groundbreaking works by artists who use light in extraordinary ways, including Tracey Emin, Dan Flavin, Olafur Eliasson, and Chila Burman. Running until Sunday 17 January, it explores light as both subject and material, sparking questions of perception, nature and the cosmos.

Visitors to The Light will also have the chance to discover more about the DLI at a fascinating new permanent exhibition. Featuring images, sounds, hands-on activities and rich sensory experiences, We Are The Durhams builds upon the venue’s military heritage to tell a deeply human story of identity, belonging and community.

The celebrations continue

The opening weekend celebrations will continue into the final weeks of the summer holidays with a packed programme of artist-led workshops and creative activities inspired by light, colour, perception, and imagination.

Details of The Light’s autumn/winter programme will be announced soon.

by

Visit County Durham shortlisted for Travel For Every Body Awards 2026 

Everybody logo

Visit County Durham has been shortlisted in the Destination category at the Travel For Every Body Awards 2026, recognising its work to make County Durham a more accessible and inclusive destination.

The awards, organised by travel industry publication Selling Travel, celebrate organisations and initiatives helping to make travel more inclusive and accessible. 

Visit County Durham is shortlisted alongside destinations from across the UK and around the world, including Experience Grand Rapids, New York State, Spanish Tourist Office, Tenerife, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Travel Oregon, Visit Austin, Visit Düsseldorf and VisitEngland. 

Michelle Gorman, managing director of Visit County Durham, said: “We want County Durham to be a destination where everyone can enjoy the experiences, attractions, landscapes and hospitality we have to offer. Being shortlisted for the Travel For Every Body Awards is fantastic recognition of the work taking place across the county to improve accessibility and create a welcoming experience for all visitors. It also highlights the importance of working together with our tourism businesses and partners to make inclusive tourism part of everything we do.” 

The recognition highlights County Durham’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that visitors with a wide range of access needs can enjoy the county’s attractions, accommodation, experiences and landscapes. 

The winners will be announced at the Travel For Every Body Awards ceremony at voco Manchester on 1 October 2026. 

View the full Travel For Every Body Awards 2026 shortlist: Finalists for Travel For Every Body Awards 2026 – Selling Travel

by

A new mark of excellence: Seaham Hall celebrates landmark Michelin Key achievement

Seaham Hall Hotel with the Michellin logo

Seaham Hall, the five-star luxury hotel and spa based in County Durham, has been awarded a coveted MICHELIN Key by the MICHELIN guide, in recognition of its outstanding hospitality and commitment to exceptional guest experiences.

The MICHELIN Key is a highly selective accolade and is the hotel equivalent of the MICHELIN Star, celebrating hotels that demonstrate excellence across design, service, character, value and sense of place.

Awarded following rigorous, anonymous inspections, the Key recognises hotels that deliver an exceptional overall stay and showcase distinctive character, high-quality service and a strong connection to their surroundings.

Seaham Hall, which this year celebrates its 25th anniversary, is the only hotel in County Durham to be awarded with the prestigious award and is now one of two MICHELIN Key hotels in the North East region. The hotel joins the highly exclusive list of 18 new Key hotels added across the UK and Ireland, with now only 150 hotels holding the title across England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland.

Seaham Hall is highly decorated, with a recent recognition in the prestigious La Liste, where it claimed the top spot in the North East and placed number 51 in the UK. The hotel has also recently been shortlisted in the AA Spa and Hospitality Awards for its commitment to delivering exceptional wellness experiences, outstanding facilities and exemplary service.

The hotel holds a reputation as one of the North East’s leading coastal hotels, spa and wellness destinations and has undertaken a number of significant refurbishments over the past year in its commitment to offering exceptional guest experiences. In April the hotel re-opened its Zen Garden within its world-renowned Serenity Spa following a major £1 million investment. Alongside this, Seaham Hall has also launched two refined hospitality offerings including Japanese-inspired spa restaurant, Geko, and Harvey’s Bar, a modern speakeasy inspired by the hotel’s remarkable history. 

Ross Grieve, Managing Director of Seaham Hall said: “Receiving a MICHELIN Key is a fantastic achievement for our entire team at Seaham Hall and something we are incredibly proud of. To be recognised among just two hotels in the North East is a real honour and reflects the care and attention that goes into every aspect of the guest experience, from our outstanding levels of hospitality to our approach to food and our connection to the region. It is incredible to see that commitment recognised by the MICHELIN Guide, and we look forward to continuing to build on this achievement.”