Home to ancient archives and archaeological finds, records of bravery and life-changing events, The Story brings together five historic collections for the first time.  

The collections include notable items like the Bowes-Lyon and Londonderry family archives, as well as industrial plans relating to the coal, iron and steel industries and early locomotive development. The Story also provides a home for the Durham Light Infantry (DLI) Collection including the Wakenshaw Gun. 

Items from the collections will be on display in permanent and temporary exhibition spaces as well as being available to access online, and in person in the Collections Room.  

This new attraction is a place where County Durham's heritage is not only preserved but celebrated in a way that we hope will inspire people to find out more.

Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economy and partnerships

New jobs were created as part of the project that continue to deliver a community activity programme to engage people through educational talks and tours, workshops and pop-up events. 

The Story also houses the County Registration Service. 

Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: "We're absolutely delighted that The Story is now open to the public. This new attraction is a place where County Durham's heritage is not only preserved but celebrated in a way that we hope will inspire people to find out more." 

For more information visit The Story website.