Summer has finally arrived and brought good weather to the region at last and after a wet start to the year, we're sure you're all eager to get out and about in the sunshine.

With an endless amount of things to do in County Durham - it's difficult to identify some great things to do in the region. 

In preparation for that headache of finding something to do, The Northern Echo has pieced together five must-visit places this weekend- all are child-friendly and a mix of inside and outside.

Locomotion

A brilliant railway museum in the heart of County Durham - this one in Shildon is a great attraction for all of the family. 

Even if you're not particularly into trains - this place is great for learning about transport - with plenty of interactive activities as well. 

The museum was opened in 2004 and has attracted millions of visitors in the time since. 

In 2025, it's expected that Locomotion will expand - but, for now, this place is a great one to go to this Bank Holiday. 

And last but not least, this attraction is FREE to visit.

Beamish

Beamish is another tourist attraction that welcomes hundreds of thousands of people each year, a must-visit and a real blast from the past.

At the attraction, people can step back in time by exploring the 350 acres of Beamish - telling people the story of the North East through the1820s, 1900s, 1940s and the newly expanded 1950s.

Taste traditional food from a coal-fired range, hop on board a tram or steam train, play schoolyard games together and pop into the Co-op shops. 

The Bowes Museum

Standing proudly in the heart of Teesdale, The Bowes Museum is the vision of a pioneering woman, Joséphine Bowes and her husband John.

A romantic history, stunning galleries, great location, fine dining, exhibitions, family fun events - all housed in a listed building which resembles a French chateau.

It’s surrounded by parkland, woodland walks, formal gardens and a children’s play area. 

This place, most importantly, is perfect for an inside attraction option if the weather doesn't look the best over the weekend.

Hall Hill Farm

Farmyard fun for all. This option relies on it being nice weather - but is a great attraction for all of the family. 

You can feed lots of farm animals on your visit, hold rabbits, guinea pigs and chicks, with lots of other activities to keep you entertained including free tractor-trailer rides, bouncy pillows, sledges, adventure play, indoor soft play and much more.

This place is great for children - but we bet adults will enjoy it too!

Crook Hall & Gardens

Crook Hall Gardens features a series of interlinking gardens, each with its own style and character, set against the backdrop of a Grade 1 listed medieval hall.

Visitors can discover a maze, a secret walled garden, an orchard, a wildlife-rich moat pool, tranquil seating areas and views of Durham city and cathedral.

The Garden Gate Café offers seating indoors, as well as on an outdoor terrace. Dogs on a short lead are welcome in the gardens and café.

A great place if the weather is great outside.