Things To Do
in Peterlee
Peterlee is a planned town in County Durham, nestled between the Durham countryside and the North Sea coast. It was established in the 1930s to house coal mining communities and grew into a family-friendly town with green spaces and local amenities. Today it serves as a relaxed base for exploring the Durham coast, nearby towns, and regional heritage without the bustle of a larger city.
Visitors will find affordable lodging, friendly locals, and easy access to nature and culture in and around Peterlee.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the historic Peterlee Town Centre, where you can admire the unique architecture of the buildings. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional British fare while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Afterward, take a stroll through the nearby parks, where you can appreciate the beautifully landscaped gardens.
In the afternoon, visit the Peterlee Leisure Centre to explore recreational activities, including a swimming session or a game of indoor sports. Take a short walk to the nearby Castle Eden Dene, where you can embark on a scenic hike through lush woodlands and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. As you return, stop by the local shops to pick up some unique souvenirs.
For dinner, indulge in a delightful meal at a popular local restaurant, where you can savor regional dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. After dining, consider attending a performance at the Pavilion, a local venue that often hosts live music and theater productions. Wrap up your day with a relaxing walk through the town, appreciating the charm of Peterlee at night.
Head to nearby Seaham Beach for a morning of fun in the sun, where you can enjoy the fresh sea breeze and stunning coastal views. Grab a quick breakfast at a beachside café, then rent some equipment for water sports such as paddleboarding or kayaking. The gentle waves make it a perfect spot for beginners and experienced adventurers alike.
After an exhilarating morning, unwind on the sandy beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying a picnic lunch with your friends or family. Explore the rock pools and search for interesting marine life while taking in the breathtaking scenery of the coastline. If you're feeling adventurous, join a guided boat tour to discover more of the beautiful shoreline.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot on the beach to watch the sky turn vibrant shades of orange and pink. Dine at a seaside restaurant, indulging in fresh seafood caught from the local waters. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, enjoying the sounds of the waves and the cool evening breeze.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚌One-way local transport | $2-4 |
| 🚖Taxi (1 mile) | $6-9 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or B&B (per night) | $60-110 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable accommodation and dining relative to larger cities
- Proximity to both coast and green countryside
- Friendly locals and a relaxed pace
- Good access to Durham Coast attractions and nearby towns
- Limited nightlife within Peterlee itself
- Some services and amenities are concentrated in neighboring towns
- Public transport can be less frequent than in bigger cities
Places to Visit in Peterlee
Visit one of these nice places.
Harbour walls, cliffs, and the sea provide dramatic sunset and long-exposure opportunities, with industrial and maritime charm.
A picturesque marina with boats, a lighthouse, and water reflections—great for early morning or golden hour shots.
Woodland trails and dappled light create intimate forest photography with a touch of wild Durham countryside.
Iconic coastal lighthouse and cliffside views offering wide horizons and strong seascape opportunities.
Food in Peterlee
Peterlee Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy battered fish with chips, often served with mushy peas and tartare sauce; a staple at seaside towns and local pubs.
Must-Try!
Savory pies filled with minced meat and gravy, a common pub favorite across the region.
A regional comfort dish—breaded chicken topped with bechamel sauce and cheese; popular in nearby pubs and casual eateries.
Sausages baked in a Yorkshire pudding batter, a classic chest-warming dish often found on pub menus.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Occasional farmers’ markets and temporary stalls in nearby towns offer fresh produce, baked goods, and snacks; great for sampling regional products.
Weekend roadside vans and pop-ups in nearby towns provide quick meals, coffee, and seaside treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite queuing and patient conversation are standard. A simple hello or please/thank you goes a long way.
Stand to the left on escalators if you’re in a rush; allow others to pass in crowded areas and keep noise considerate in shared spaces.
Local topics like history, football, and regional culture are safe; avoid overly controversial or sensitive discussions with strangers.
Safety
Tipping in Peterlee
Ensure a smooth experience
In the UK, tipping is customary but not mandatory. If service charge is not included, 10–15% in pubs and restaurants is common for good service.
Cash is accepted widely, but card payments (debit/credit) and contactless payments are very common in shops, cafes, and pubs.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, mild to warm temperatures, and coastal breezes. Occasional showers but generally good for outdoor activities and photography by the sea.
Cooler days with vivid leaf colour in woodland areas; ideal for scenic walks and quiet coastal photography sessions.
Cool to cold with possible winds from the North Sea; shorter daylight hours. Coastal walks remain enjoyable in crisp conditions, with proper warm clothing.
Mild weather with blooming gardens and countryside awakening; great for hikes and city strolls with fresh lighting.
Peterlee at Night
Hiking in Peterlee
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular woodland network with varied trails and wildlife, offering scenic vantage points and peaceful walks.
Coastal paths along the Seaham shoreline with sea views and dramatic cliffs, ideal for photography and fresh air.
Airports
How to reach Peterlee by plane.
Main regional international gateway with a wide range of domestic and international flights; accessible by road and rail from the Durham area.
Smaller regional airport serving domestic and some international routes; convenient for shorter trips in the northeast.
A further option for regional connections with several European routes; reached by road or rail links via major towns.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population includes families and long-term residents in a suburban setting.
Some residents commute to nearby towns for work, contributing to a steady flow of professionals in the area.
The town also hosts an aging demographic typical of many regional towns in the northeast.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and nearby stadiums reflect the region’s strong football culture; match-wday atmospheres are common in pubs and bars.
Summer cricket is popular in parks and local grounds across County Durham.
Amateur and community clubs contribute to a steady rugby scene in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Peterlee.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many pubs and cafés offer vegetarian options; look for veggie pies, veggie burgers, and seasonal salads. When in doubt, ask staff about available dishes or substitutions.