ELTIPS AV R T

And you’re going to need the knees of a superhero to climb Durham cathedral’s 325 steps.

But while the medieval cloister, sandstone pillars and Rose Window make it a favourite film location, the views from the top will blow you away. If the wind doesn’t first.

We were on a three-day break in the North East and booked in to the five-star Rockliffe Hall in Hurworth, Darlington. It was the first time we’d dared do a fancy hotel with our sons Nathan, eight, and ten- year- old Theo. But we could rest easy. Staff didn’t bat an eyelid as our “angels” sprawled over the posh chairs. Phew.

We arrived late so took afternoon tea – the kids enjoyed a littlepeople version, with sandwiches cut into fairies, berry jelly and chocolate eggs. It is tied in with t he hotel’s Alice in Wonderland-themed playground, Mischmasch, which has a splash pad and interactive water jets.

Tucked away in woodland are Rockliffe Hall’s six Curious Cabins, where children can take their pick of entertainment, including soft play, pool, movies or computer games. The children’s facilities

VISITS to Durham castle are by guided tour only.

Book through the nearby ticket office or in advance at dur.ac.uk/durham.castle.

AT Shildon Locomotion museum, see the Sans Pareil, which competed against Stephenson’s Rocket in the Rainhill Trials. And the steam train named after Winston Churchill that carried him in state for his funeral. KYNREN runs during summer but you can book in advance at kynren.com. Wrap up

on cooler nights.