*daily rates in Darlington based on a 1 day rental (24hr period) and for guidance purposes only.
*average daily rates based on 7 day rental, search for todays best prices.
Darlington Mini Guide
What do I Need to Know About Darlington?
It was an important Anglo-Saxon settlement called Dearthington which meant ‘where Deomoth’s people live’. During these times it developed as a regional market town, a tradition it upholds today. Up to two hundred years ago it was called Darnton, only changing to Darlington in the late 19th century. It was the home to some of the most important industries in the
UK including bridge construction. Many of the world’s bridges were made there including the
Sydney Harbour Bridge and bridges over the Nile and Amazon Rivers. The city is still proud of its industrial heritage and a walking tour of the city can be taken, visiting many of the buildings that helped make the town wealthy.
How do I get to Darlington?
Getting there is quite easy.
Durham Tees Valley, a small regional airport, has flights from around the UK plus charter flights to overseas destinations. The airport is under fifteen minutes’ drive from the town and easily accessed by bus, taxi or hire car. An alternative way of getting here is to take the North East mainline rail service up from
London which stops at Darlington.
What’s There to see in the Town?
Whilst you are in Darlington you have to visit the Darlington Railway Museum. One of the world’s most important transport systems began near here and helped empires to grow and wars to be won. The museum covers the history, development and effect of rail transport over the centuries in a fun and informative way, illustrated with several examples of the early locomotives. Near the town is the medieval part-buried village of Ulnaby, thought to be the origins of the modern town. Walking around there you can see the form of the village and informative signs tell you what archaeologists thought the buildings were used for.
Where Should I go for a Night out?
The bars and clubs of the town, including the occasional working men’s club are located around the area of Skinnersgate, where parallel streets are intersected with narrow lanes. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming in all areas.
- Darlington is currently focusing its efforts on promoting its proximity to Teeside and the industrial historical and retail attractions of the region. The better parts of the region though are to the west, towards the Pennines where there's great fresh air and exhilarating walks.
- Join the city's mascot, Deefor the Dragon, as he helps Darlington celebrate St George's Day two months hence in the Market Square at midday.