Attractions and Places To See around Cornforth - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Cornforth include historical sites and natural features, offering a glimpse into County Durham's past. The village itself has historical ties to coal mining and features landmarks like Brandon House, dating back to the 16th or 17th century. Cornforth serves as a base for exploring significant cultural and natural attractions in the surrounding region. Its historical context, including its name "Corneford" (Ford of the Cranes), suggests the presence of natural water features.
Best attractions…
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Durham Cathedral (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
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Durham Castle
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The Count's House Folly
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Newton Cap Viaduct
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Hurworth Burn Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
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Tips from the Community
The cathedral was originally constructed to house the relics of St Cuthbert, a beloved Northumbrian saint. His shrine is a significant pilgrimage destination.
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A television series that I can recommend without reservation presents the culture-loving viewer (in German) with remarkable examples of human creativity from many countries around the world. What they all have in common is that they have been given "world heritage" status by UNESCO. One of the contributions documents: "Like a grey rock, Durham Cathedral, located in the north-east of England near the Scottish border, towers over the roofs of the city. Half church and half bastion, this building is an impressive example of early Romanesque church architecture in England. The three-storey Anglo-Norman cathedral with a 2 m thick arcade wall and Norman castle complex, the later seat of the bishops of Durham, was declared a cultural monument." This film can be found in the ARD media library under the following link: https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/die-kathedrale-von-durham-grossbritannien-folge-138/3sat/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS83MTY4ODA2
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Newton Cap Viaduct is Grade II listed and was built in 1857 to carry the Bishop Auckland to Durham City railway across the River Wear. The viaduct fell into disuse when the railway closed in 1968. However, work began to strengthen the viaduct and convert it for road use. It was completed in 1995 and the busy A689 road was rerouted over the viaduct.
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Hurworth Burn Reservoir is a 21 acre lake built in 1867. It's surrounded by woodland and attracts a rich variety of wildlife.
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Durham Count's House is actually a folly - a building erected for the sole purpose of looking nice in a rural setting and usually made to look like a forgotten piece of history. The Georgians and Victorians were great ones for building follies, and you'll often find miniature mock medieval ruins and classical temples in the grounds of country houses. The Count's House folly was built by the Dean and Chapter of Durham Cathedral in about the 1820s. Of course, I say that follies have no other purpose, but they did sometimes serve as a place to rest, take tea or as a hunting lodge; the Count's House was sometimes used as a summerhouse. (https://explorar.co.uk/durham/history/who-was-durhams-little-count/)
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Absolutely huge cathedral. The interior is quite special in its plainness - not even the high ceiling is decorated making the gothic architecture even more impressive. As you cannot walk around it takes a bit of going back and forth to take in this building complex from all perspectives.
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Donated to the university and now used as student residence. Therefore opening times are limited, but one can get a glimpse into the inner yard when asking friendly.
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Stunning cathedral with stunning views from the top. Some great history inside and highly recommend it
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit near Cornforth?
The area around Cornforth is rich in history. You can explore the magnificent Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Durham Cathedral is renowned for its Romanesque architecture, while Durham Castle has been continuously occupied since 1072. Additionally, within Cornforth, you can see Brandon House, dating back to the 16th or 17th century, and learn about the village's past connections to coal mining.
Are there natural attractions to explore around Cornforth?
Yes, for nature lovers, Hurworth Burn Reservoir offers a serene spot for picnics, wildlife observation, and scenic views over the water and surrounding countryside. It's also part of National Cycle Network 1. The historical name of Cornforth, 'Corneford' (Ford of the Cranes), suggests the presence of natural water features that were historically significant.
What walking or hiking opportunities are available near Cornforth?
There are several walking and hiking opportunities in the vicinity. You can find a variety of routes, including easy hikes and more challenging trails. For detailed options, check out the Hiking around Cornforth guide, which includes routes like the 'Hardwick Park Tower and Lake – Carr Wood loop' and 'Open Countryside Walk – Bishop Middleham Memorial loop'.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Cornforth?
Many attractions in the area are suitable for families. Both Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle are listed as family-friendly. The Hurworth Burn Reservoir is also a great spot for a family picnic. For train enthusiasts, Locomotion, the railway museum in Shildon, is a popular nearby destination.
What unique architectural features can be found in the area?
The most prominent architectural marvel is Durham Cathedral, a prime example of Romanesque architecture. Its large-scale, stone-vaulted ceiling was a pioneering feat at the time of its construction (1093-1133). You can also see the unique Maiden Castle Footbridge Over the River Wear, a wood-slatted cable-stayed bridge popular with walkers.
What is the historical significance of Cornforth village itself?
Cornforth has a rich history, with its name 'Corneford' meaning 'Ford of the Cranes', indicating a historical natural water feature. The village has strong ties to coal mining, with historical mentions of 'Cornforth Colliery' and 'Cornforth Quarry'. You can also find Brandon House, a visible historical structure dating back to the 16th or 17th century.
Can I find cycling routes near Cornforth?
Yes, cycling opportunities are available. Hurworth Burn Reservoir is part of National Cycle Network 1, offering a pleasant route. For mountain biking, explore the MTB Trails around Cornforth guide, which features routes like the 'Lanchester Valley Path – River Browney loop'.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions near Cornforth?
Visitors frequently praise the historical grandeur of sites like Durham Cathedral, noting its impressive architecture and spiritual atmosphere. The natural beauty of places like Hurworth Burn Reservoir is appreciated for its peaceful views and wildlife. The community has shared 137 photos and given 127 upvotes across various highlights, indicating a strong positive reception for the diverse offerings.
Are there any interesting follies or lesser-known historical gems?
Yes, near Durham, you can discover The Count's House Folly. Despite its name, this building is a former summer house from around 1820, built by the Dean and Chapter of Durham Cathedral. It's an interesting example of a Georgian folly, designed to look picturesque in a rural setting.
What cultural sites are available in the broader County Durham area?
Beyond the immediate vicinity of Cornforth, County Durham offers a range of cultural sites. These include the Gala Theatre & Cinema in Durham for performances, and the National Trust's Crook Hall Gardens, which provides a historic house and garden experience. Locomotion in Shildon is also a significant cultural attraction focusing on railway history.
Can I find places for a picnic or relaxation near Cornforth?
Absolutely. Hurworth Burn Reservoir is highlighted as a nice spot for a picnic, offering lovely views and benches for resting. The surrounding countryside also provides many tranquil areas for relaxation and enjoying the outdoors.
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