Spanish football links in Crook
Lying around 10 miles from Durham, this former coal mining town gets its name from a bend in the River Wear. It's surrounded by unspoilt countryside, and serves as a gateway to Weardale and Upper Teesdale in the Pennines.
Crook's biggest claim to fame is its link to Spanish footballing giants Barcelona. Crook Town played a number of friendly matches with the club in the 1910s and 1920s to aid their development. Why not catch a game of non-league football while you're here?
Animal fun and frolics
Animal lovers will find plenty to keep them amused in and around Crook. At North Star Alpacas, you can take a leisurely trek through scenic Weardale with a friendly alpaca for company, stopping for photo ops along the way.
Further afield, Kays Hill Animal Sanctuary provides shelter for rescued dogs, cats, rabbits, foxes, birds and reptiles. Be warned - you'll probably want to take some of them home with you.
Don't miss Durham's amazing sights
Durham is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK, with shedloads of historic buildings to explore and winding streets to meander. Durham Cathedral is a Unesco World Heritage Site, putting it on a par with the Taj Mahal. Check out the Monks' Dormitory and exquisite Norman nave.
At Crook Hall and Gardens, get lost in the 'a-maze-ing' maze and wander among a pretty garden inspired by Shakespeare.
Looking for a cheap hotel Near Crook? Travelodge Durham Hotel is around eight miles away. Or you could try Travelodge Chester-le-Street Hotel if you want to be Nearer Newcastle.