Darlington has many beautiful attractions including Clark's Stables, a famous art and sculpture venue located at the Skinner gate end of Clark's Yard, the Art Centre, South Park, the Civic Theatre and the Head of Steam Railway Museum. The Civic Theatre is a popular cultural venue close to Darlington vacation homes that hosts a mix of musicals, dramas, plays and pantomimes through out the year. The Art Centre screens films, and organizes many cultural experiments. In addition to these, David Mach's majestic life size 'Train' sculpture at Morton Palms is an astounding piece of art .
The Town Centre of Darlington is a popular shopping and recreation zone. “In Arcadia” is a prime hangout spot and shopping centre that is replete with numerous souvenir shops which sell colorful clothing, jewelry, handicrafts and small stalls offering delicious Latino food. The Grange Road near the Town Centre is decked with a number of expensive and attractive designer stores; while Duke Street houses art galleries and restaurants. Nestled between the Town Centre and the Grange Road, Skinner gate is another major shopping centre that holds a great variety of interesting and original stores. Located close to the town, the communities of Durham and Rothbury offer great countryside shopping.
Darlington hosts many festivals, events and fairs annually. The Rhythm 'n' Brews music and ale festival is generally held in early autumn. It features many rock, blues and jazz concerts at various venues around Darlington. The Forum Music Centre of the town hosts live music events, from Ska and Punk to Indie and Classic Rock many times a year. The town houses a comedy club where you can enjoy theatrical performances by local artists. In addition to these, you can also visit the Darlington Dog Show, a championship event since 1969, while staying in Darlington vacation rentals.