Share this tour
Offered languages
- English
This 90-minute, leisurely-paced historical tour explores the intriguing past of this notable market town, beginning with the establishment of the Iron Age settlement at Congangis.
The narrative soon introduces the Romans as we examine the remains of the fort of Congangium and discuss its significance along the route to Hadrian's Wall.
Next, we delve into the early Middle Ages, a period during which the shrine of St Cuthbert and the Lindisfarne Gospels rendered the town a pivotal and sacred site in the North East, serving as the residence for nine Bishops and a destination for Kings.
As we proceed to Riverside Park, we will enjoy views of Lumley Castle and the International Cricket Ground. On our return to the town, we will highlight its significance in the development of the stagecoach and rail networks during the 18th and 19th centuries.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Meet at the War Memorial, opposite the Methodist Church
Itinerary
-
1
Running through the heart of the town, here we discuss the Iron Age history of the settlement of Congansis which gives the burn (Northern English for stream) its name.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
Situated in the centre of the old fort of Congangium we look at the roman remains and discuss the Roman history of the town. We then head inside the church to talk about this history of the Minster of Chester-le-street, the journey of the tomb of St Cuthbert and the Lindisfarne Gospels, and the kings that came to pay homage to Cuthbert in the Church. Note that the tour is timed to avoid scheduled church services - in the event of a funeral or other unscheduled service or the church not being open we will speak about the church from the churchyard.
35 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3
Here we'll take in the view of Lumley Castle and talk about the history of the Lumley and Lambton families, and also how Chester-le-street came to be the home of Durham Cricket and the International Cricket Ground
20 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Show more
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Your guide to the flawless travel experience
Popular Countries
Company
Get our app
