Influence Church

There's a working church in Bishop Auckland that's worth a quick visit if you're passing through County Durham, though I'll be honest - it's not the kind of place you'd drive an hour out of your way for. Influence Church is modern, relatively low-key, and sits in the midst of the town rather than commanding some dramatic hilltop location.

What you get is a genuine community space that's been converted into a place of worship. The interior is clean and contemporary, which makes a pleasant change from the heavy stone and stained glass you find in most Durham churches. It's the sort of spot locals actually use rather than somewhere purely for tourists ticking boxes.

Families won't find much to occupy the kids for long - it's not a cathedral with cloister walks or historical exhibits. But if you're into modern church architecture or just want five minutes of quiet while exploring Bishop Auckland, it does the job. The real appeal is how it reflects what's happening in British churches now, rather than any historical significance.

If you're staying at Cragwood Holiday Home Park or Stag Park Caravan Site - both within easy driving distance - you could combine it with a proper walk around Bishop Auckland's town centre or a visit to Auckland Castle if you want something with more substance. The admission cost and opening hours aren't widely advertised, so ring ahead or check locally before you visit. Worth knowing about, less worth planning your day around.