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Offered languages
- English
Whenever I arrive in a new city, the most useful thing is always the same: talking to someone who lives there. That’s exactly what this tour offers: a walk through the most historic parts of Durham’s city centre and World Heritage Site, guided by stories from the past and insights from someone who knows the place inside out.
As well as the history of this beautiful city, I’ll show you my favourite spots to eat, drink, and explore, and share tips on how to make the most of your time here, whether you’re staying for a weekend or just passing through. The tour is updated daily with current events and goings-on, so you’ll always know what’s happening in the city right now.
We’ll also look beyond Durham to the wider North East: where to go, what to see, and how to get there, whether you’re driving or using public transport.
It’s the kind of guide I wish I had every time I stepped off a train in a new place!
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
The Journey Statue, Millennium Place, Durham DH1 1WA
Itinerary
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1
We'll start with the Journey statue which tells the story of the Viking raids which led to the monks of St Cuthbert accidentally founding Durham in 995.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
This lively square has been Durham’s civic heart for centuries, home to the historic Market Hall, three fascinating statues, and the beautiful St Nicholas’s Church. We'll talk about where the bodies are buried - literally - and the story of Charles Vane, the worst man in Durham to ever have a statue built to him.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3
Having walked down the busy shopping street Silver Street and seen the hidden passageway up to the Cathedral, we'll stop on Framwellgate Bridge to get your first view of the majestic Durham Castle, discussing its fascinating history.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4
We'll walk along the River Wear path, taking in the fantastic view of the Castle and the Cathedral from below as well as seeing the historic boat houses and mills. We'll then take in the view that JM Turner made famous of the Cathedral from Prebends Bridge and discuss the famous and infamous Prince Bishops of Durham.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5
We’ll see the best preserved remains of the old city walls, and walk up South Bailey and into the College - today the most exclusive and peaceful part of the city but once the heart of the monastery. It’s then to the Chorister School - including a photo of some surprising famous ex-pupils - and see the infamous Dark Entry to the Cathedral.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6
Entering the Cathedral via the College Green, we'll see the cloisters where the monks lived and worked, and then into the world famous Nave of the Cathedral to view the vaulted ceiling. On this tour the focus is on the city, so we don’t spend too long inside the Cathedral. I’d strongly recommend coming back later in your trip to spend some time viewing all the treasures this wonderful building has to offer – I'm very happy to recommend what to see.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
7
Passing through the Cathedral into the heart of the World Heritage Site, Palace Green is the historic centre of the old fortified city of Durham. From here we'll get another view of the majestic Cathedral, Castle and the discuss the historic church and university buildings of Palace Green.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
We cross the river over the modern masterpiece Kingsgate Footbridge, telling the surprising story of its connection with Sydney Opera House.
Admission ticket free -
8
It's then on to outside His Majesties Prison Durham to talk about a daring escape and an infamous ghost, then on to the lovely Old Council Offices on Old Elvet, where we'll talk about the historic and world famous Durham Miners Gala. Our final stop is Elvet Bridge, home of two of notorious night spots, one with a connection to high politics.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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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.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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