If you’re looking for what’s on in Durham this month, there’s plenty worth planning ahead for. From major sports and bank holiday events to family days out, outdoor festivals and dog-friendly ideas, May has a good mix of bigger dates and easy local plans.

So, to save you searching for things to do in Durham in May, this guide pulls together the key diary dates plus a few flexible ideas you can use for weekends, half term, and those “shall we do something?” days.

Events in Durham this month: big dates to book

One of the standout Durham events in May is England Women v New Zealand Women ODI at Durham Cricket (10 May) … a definite diary addition for anyone who loves cricket (or knows someone who does).

The Early May Bank Holiday also brings extra reasons to get out and about, with events such as Crookfest ’26 adding to the month’s appeal.

Later in May, North Pennines NatureFest (23 May to 7 June) brings walks, nature-focused activities and outdoor inspiration, ideal if you’re already thinking ahead to half-term plans.

Beamish is also likely to be high on many people’s lists, especially with its Festival of Transport (Saturday 23 May to Sunday 31 May) offering a family-friendly day out that’s easy to build a full day around.

Food and drink festival worth a May diary slot (Tyneside)

If you fancy a day out that’s a bit different (and feels like a proper occasion), Tyneside Vegan and Music Festival 2026 (Sat 16 May) is a great choice for mid-May if you love a festival feel! You’ll find food traders, love music and an all-round fun, friendly atmosphere …  and it’s an easy one to plan as a day trip from Durham.

Family days out, dog-friendly picks and easy weekend ideas

Beyond the headline events, May is a good month for filling the diary with simpler local plans too. Families looking for half-term ideas, couples planning a relaxed day out, and dog owners wanting somewhere welcoming all have good options across the county.

Dog-friendly picks include the South Causey Monthly Dog Walk, while Live Music Nights at South Causey Inn offer an easy choice for food, drinks and an evening out.

For outdoor days, Hamsterley Forest remains a reliable option for walks, fresh air, and a flexible day out that can work around the weather.

Why Durham is worth planning early this May

Our suggestions for events in Durham this month offer a bit of everything: bigger events to book, family attractions for school holiday planning, outdoor activities for brighter days, and dog-friendly ideas for more relaxed weekends.

If May is already starting to fill up, now is a good time to get the best dates in the diary (and also keep a couple of easy “backup plans” ready for weekends when you just want to  get out of the house!