Celebrating Dads on Father’s Day 2026 in Darlington

With Father’s Day quickly approaching on June 21, if you haven’t bought your Dad the perfect gift then we have put together some alternative ideas to show him just how much you love him. Darlington has so much to offer gift-wise, including days and meals out. A special occasion, like Father’s Day, is a fantastic time to take a look at the options our town has to offer.

Have a historic day out at Hopetown Museum

Hopetown Museum, based on McNay Street, is perfect for train-lover Dads. We all know one (or have one)! Hopetown Museum is a free attraction and explores the heritage of the railways and how history started right here in Darlington. It houses over 30,000 objects showcasing the history of the railways and even features an immersive ride.

Treat Dad to a Sunday Roast at one of Darlington’s restaurants

When it comes to a classic Sunday dinner, Darlington is not short of them. There are plenty of fantastic eateries that offer a delicious Sunday dinner. If you’re looking for a town centre location, why not check out the Sunday menus at Oven, Blackwell Grange, Toby Carvery or The Loft Steakhouse?

Be sure to double check the menus if you’re heading out on actual Father’s Day for Sunday dinner as some lucky Dads may be in for a further treat. Blackwell Grange Hotel, Bannatyne Hotel and Zuu are three eateries where Dads who are dining will be entitled to an extra surprise.

Get competitive as a family at The DC’s bowling alley

The Dolphin Centre is now home to a five-lane bowling alley, making it a perfect place to enjoy Father’s Day together as a family. Book a lane and get competitive with each other, maybe even allow Dad to win. It is Father’s Day after all! Afterwards, why not head into the town centre for a bite to eat and prolong the celebrations?

Delight Dad with a voucher for an independent or high street shop

Dads are renowned for not treating themselves to new clothes, even when their wardrobe is sometimes in desperate need of a refresh. Purchase a voucher from one of Darlington’s bustling independent shops, or a high street favourite, and let Dad choose himself a new pair of socks or some fancy shoes.

Take Dad out for a refreshing drink

Like the eateries, Darlington is also not short on welcoming bars and pubs. Across the town centre, there are many bars and pubs where you can take Dad for a delightful drink. In pubs such as The Red Lion, The Darlington Flyer and The Turk’s Head, you could also challenge him to a game of pool or darts.

Watch a show together at The Hippodrome

Why not treat Dad to a night at the theatre? The Hippodrome has some fantastic shows happening over the coming weeks and months. There are a wide range of plays, comedians, tribute acts and musicals that are all going to be gracing our local theatre very soon. Take a look at What’s On here.

Have a nostalgic trip to the cinema to watch Toy Story 5

Toy Story 5 has just landed at Vue cinema, and it is the perfect excuse to take a cinema trip with Dad as well as eating all your favourite snacks. Whether you’re wanting to bask in nostalgia or introduce your Dad to these fun characters, this is a great way to spend an afternoon together.