Here are some suggestions for things to do in the area if you do not want to fish every day, are flooded off or have friends that are not fishing. For more information see the Visit North East England site

Castles, Cathedrals etc

Durham Cathedral & Castle: The awe inspiring Durham Cathedral was described by travel writer Bill Bryson as the 'best cathedral on Planet Earth' and, together with Durham Castle, was designated as one of Britain's first World Heritage Sites. Durham Castle was once the home of the mighty medieval Prince Bishops, and is now a residential college of Durham University and museum.

Raby Castle This magnificent 14th-century castle is one of the finest medieval castles in England. From the magnificent Baron's Hall, where 700 knights gathered to plot the 'Rising of the North', to medieval towers, turrets and splendid interiors - see: website

Auckland Castle: This has been the home of the Bishops of Durham for over 800 years, and is still the Bishop's official residence today. This historic building is the administrative centre for the Diocese, as well as a notable tourist attraction - see: website

Bowes Museum: Discover historic treasure and contemporary art - see: Bowes Museum

Family Fun

Beamish Museum: Step straight into either 1825 or 1913 and experience a working town, manor, colliery, village, farm and railway. Throughout the year Beamish hosts an exciting programme of events, from a Georgian Fair to an Agricultural Show, there's something for everyone. What's more, there's no extra charge for these events, admission is included in the admission charge to Beamish.

The National Railway Museum: Explore at Shildon a fascinating array of engines from the national collection, plus the original engine workshops of the pioneering engineer of Stephenson's early locomotives.

Maritime Experience: In Hartlepool, step aboard Britain's oldest warship still afloat, moored in a recreated 18th century seaport at Hartlepool'sMaritime Experience

Shopping

The North East is famous for the Metro Centre is the Number 1 shopping and leisure centre in the UK and the largest in Europe. Based in Gateshead, the Centre has over 330 stores and is stocked full of key designer and cost conscious brands. Open during the week till 9pm.

Designer outlet Dalton Park and The Royal Quays shopping outlets are 30 mins drive from Durham, off the A19.

Local shopping locations Barnard Castle, Yarm, Durham, Corbridge offer a variety of specialist shops and tea rooms for tourists.

Outdoor activities

For the more energetic there are many activites to do. Nearly every town has its own golf course. The surrounding countryside, from the Heritage Coast to the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is a walker's paradise.

Hadrians wall, walk or cycle this 73 mile World Heritage Site, in the footsteps made by the Roman legions almost 2000 years ago

High Force Waterfall at Durham. Spectacular waterfall in scenic Teesdale, with the River Tees plunging 20 metres into the pool below

Download walks from the national trust for Yorkshire and the North East - see their site