As the year draws to a close, it is time for the final big push before Christmas. For local business owners, freelancers, and entrepreneurs across County Durham, the festive season is not just about winding down—it is about finishing strong, strengthening local connections, and setting the groundwork for the year ahead.
The Do Business Network has lined up three fantastic networking events to close out 2026. While a few adjustments to the schedule have been made due to unforeseen circumstances, our final lineup promises a brilliant mix of history, community updates, and festive cheer.
Here is what is coming up:
1. Beamish Museum: The Drovers Tavern
Date: Tuesday, 20th October 2026
Time: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Location: Beamish Museum, Beamish, Stanley, County Durham, DH9 0RG
We are meeting at one of the museum's newest exhibits in the 1820s Landscape: The Drovers Tavern. A member of Beamish staff will share insights on the history of local farmers droving cattle to market and using taverns as rest stops. Angela from Y19 Management will be our guest member speaker, and attendees can also view live pottery demonstrations in the courtyard. Booking is open now.
2. Steel House Bistro, Derwentside College
Date: Tuesday, 17th November 2026
Time: 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Steel House Bistro, Derwentside College, Front Street, Consett, County Durham, DH8 5EE
Due to a change in our original schedule, Derwentside College steps in as our November venue. Angelo Conlan-Fernandez, Hospitality and Catering Lecturer, will be talking to us about what has been happening at the college over the past 12 months. During this session, we will also be announcing our plans for 2027 and giving everyone the opportunity to complete the DBN annual questionnaire, allowing our members to have their say on how to get the absolute most out of their membership.
3. The Francis Thompson Room, Ushaw Historic House, Chapels and Gardens
Date: Tuesday, 8th December 2026
Time: 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: The Francis Thompson Room, Ushaw Historic House, Chapels and Gardens, Woodland Road, Ushaw Moor, County Durham, DH7 7DW
We round off the year in truly magical fashion at Ushaw Historic House. Moved to December to take advantage of the festive season, Ushaw is beautifully decorated at Christmas time, making it a wonderful sight to look forward to. To make our final gathering extra special, we will be hosting our end-of-year Christmas quiz complete with prizes, which is always great fun and a brilliant way to celebrate our community's achievements.
Attendance is free for DBN members, and standard non-member admission is £15. However, for the month of December, DBN members can bring along a guest for free, provided the spot is booked in advance by the member.
Why Attend?
Networking is about building a supportive local community, sharing challenges, and finding collaborative solutions right here in County Durham. Whether you want to raise your profile, find fresh inspiration, or simply catch up with familiar faces before the holidays take over, these events provide the ideal space to do so.
BOOK YOUR PLACE now and let's make the final stretch of 2026 count!
