Sharing and promoting
the history and heritage of County Durham
The County Durham Forum for History and Heritage (CDFHH or Forum) provides a network for history, heritage and archaeology groups across the current and historic boundaries of County Durham.
The Forum exists without funding from any official body to provide advice and assistance to its members and offer them the opportunity to communicate, meet and discuss matters of local history and heritage. Its aims are:
- To celebrate, research and raise awareness of the rich history and archaeology, family history and folklore of County Durham.
- To share information, expertise and knowledge between member organisations and create opportunities for both learning and heritage related skills training.
- To promote the activities of our members organisations through a newsletter, social media posts, meetings and exhibitions.
The Forum’s membership comprises over 45 local history, archaeology and genealogy groups, plus some individual members, who are located between the Rivers Tyne and Tees.
Latest News & Site Posts
- ‘Stormin’ Durham’s Castles’ – A major new project celebrating County Durham’s rich Norman heritage
The Architectural and Archaeological Society of Durham and Northumberland is announcing a £98,000 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to further connect communities in County Durham with their castles. The community project ‘Stormin’ Durham’s Castles’ will be part of the 2027 European ‘Year of the Normans’ which launched in… Read more: ‘Stormin’ Durham’s Castles’ – A major new project celebrating County Durham’s rich Norman heritage - A guide to catching the ‘Binchester Bug’ – A history of the management of Binchester Roman Fort
Summary: This article outlines the the history of the management of Binchester Roman Fort, near Bishop Auckland, through its early excavations, volunteer led development and its management under the Archeological Department of Durham County Council (DCC) prior to its transfer to The Auckland Project (TAP) in 2026. Authors: Dr. Helen… Read more: A guide to catching the ‘Binchester Bug’ – A history of the management of Binchester Roman Fort - Forum Group Members Discussion & Networking Meeting – October 2026
On the morning of 14th October 2026 the Forum held its second ‘Member Discussion & Networking Meetings’ for 2026 This time we were kindly hosed in the Bishop’s Kitchen Cafe, Auckland Palace by fellow Forum members The Auckland Project (TAP). Today’s informal feedback and networking meeting, all over free refreshments,… Read more: Forum Group Members Discussion & Networking Meeting – October 2026