Area: County Durham

'The Architectural and Archaeological Society of Durham and Northumberland was founded in 1861 and has, since that time, pursued an active programme of lectures, field trips and publication. Based in Durham, but with interests throughout the region, it aims to provide an opportunity for all those interested in archaeology and architectural history to find out more, visit places of interest and experience hands on activities. There are monthly meetings from September to June, with public lectures covering areas of local, regional and international interest. Most lectures take place in Durham, but the AGM in May is generally held elsewhere in the region and is combined with a trip to a site of particular interest to the Society.'

'Aycliffe Village Local History Society had its inaugural meeting 30 November, 2004. It is for anyone interested in local history, especially that of the Great Aycliffe area. Normally, ' meetings are held on Wednesdays at 7.30 p.m. at Aycliffe Village Hall.'

'John Bowes and his French wife Joséphine created a magnificent chateau in rural Teesdale to house their collections of European fine and decorative art, ceramics and textiles ... The Bowes Museum is very conscious of its history, and the remarkable survival of the collections and associated bills under one roof. It is also conscious of its position in the North of England as providing an aspect of European art history and collecting for the people of the North East, and a starting point for the more detailed researches into related history for local people and beyond. To that end, it has instigated a variety of research and cataloging projects that aim to make its collections better known, and provide access to the library and archive via a newly built reference library and reading room in the Museum’s dome. '

'At Durham University you'll find an extensive programme of public lectures and seminars. With an impressive line up of experts and renowned academics speaking on a myriad of topics, the aim is to share knowledge and encourage debate. Lectures on thought provoking subjects as diverse as history and astro-physics are aimed at a general audience and delivered online.'