The Story celebrates successful first chapter

A County Durham heritage venue is celebrating its first anniversary this week.

Since opening in June 2024, The Story has attracted more than 122,000 people through the doors of Grade II-listed Mount Oswald House, near Durham City. 

Managed by Durham County Council, the venue houses five historic collections, including six miles of archives and the entire Durham Light Infantry collection and archive.

In its first 12 months, The Story has hosted exhibitions, talks, workshops and an illuminated trail, alongside registering 2277 births and conducting more than 700 weddings.

It has also become a key destination for schools, welcoming over 1600 pupils for interactive history sessions and engaging thousands more children who have visited with their families.

Meanwhile, the venue’s on-site café has proved to be a big hit, with almost 21,000 cups of coffee and 14,500 cakes and scones served.

Councillor Lyndsey Fox, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “The Story may be the gateway to County Durham’s past, but the last year has demonstrated its important role in our present and future too.

“It’s state-of-the-art facilities and exhibitions are empowering people to discover more about their personal histories and connect with our region’s heritage in new and exciting ways.

“Special events and outreach activities are bringing people together, while the café has become a popular choice for locals to catch up over coffee and a cake. 

“And, as the home of the County Registration Service, it’s a place where milestones are being made and celebrated.”

Landmark moments have included temporary exhibitions curated by Durham Youth Council about County Durham’s past, present and future, as well as the return of medals of First World War hero Colonel Sir Thomas Bradford and a sold-out talk from Horrible Histories’ author Terry Deary.

With The Story’s latest exhibition – ‘All Change! The Social Impact of the Stockton and Darlington Railway in the 200 Years Since 1825’ – running until January 2026, the venue’s second chapter is already underway.

Lyndsey added: “I’m delighted The Story has enjoyed such a successful year and I would like to thank the staff and volunteers for their hard work. 

“I know the team has some amazing plans in store for future, so this really is just the start.”

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