Durham History Tour and Hidden Gems

All of the features of the History Tour plus more! Here we explore the wider city and uncover some hidden gems. Learn about the ‘King in the North’ - the legendary St. Oswald - who returned from exile to reclaim his father's Northumbrian lands and establish a legacy that paved the way for Cuthbert and the Durham story. We also take a look at the dark side of Durham as we explore the prisons, executions and hauntings that add to the mystery and intrigue of the city. Finally, a tour of Durham would not be complete without delving into its rich coal mining heritage and the local people who are at the heart of the Durham story.

Meeting Point

Durham Market Place

Durham Market Place, Durham DH1, UK

Please meet at the 'Man on the Horse' statue in the centre of the Market Place. Look out for the black Walkabout Durham umbrella.

What's included:

• Dogs are welcome on our tours. We are happy to provide recommendations for the city centre.

What to expect:

Duration: 2 hours, 30 minutes

Durham Market Place

Durham Indoor Market Market Place, Durham, DH1 3NJ

At our meeting spot in the historic Market Place, in the heart of the city, we will see the 19th Century Town Hall and Guildhall, St. Nicolas' church and the statues that commemorate the city's history. We will learn about the figures who have helped to shape the city and county. From here, we will take a short walk to Framwellgate Bridge.

10 minutes

Framwellgate Bridge

Silver Street, Durham

The oldest of the city's bridges with a magnificent view of Durham Castle and Cathedral. Here we will explore the history of the Castle and famous Prince Bishops of Durham before heading along the picturesque riverside walk to our next stop. The walk from here to the next stop will take approximately 5 minutes.

15 minutes

Prebends Bridge

Durham

Along the way to Prebends Bridge we will explore the city's mills and riverbanks before taking in spectacular views of the Cathedral from Prebends Bridge.

15 minutes

St Cuthbert's Society • Durham University

12 S Bailey, Durham DH1 3EE, UK

On our way to the South Bailey, we will encounter the medieval city wall and explore the historic rivalry with the Scots before heading into the Bailey, which is the home of Durham University.

10 minutes

St Mary the Less

S Bailey, Durham DH1 3EQ, UK

Now affiliated with St. John's college, St. Mary the Less, has some fascinating connections with Durham legends. We explore their stories here whilst taking in the interesting architecture of the Bailey.

10 minutes

Dun Cow Lane

Dun Cow Ln, Durham DH1, UK

The eastern side of the Cathedral. From here we can explore some dark aspects of Norman history as well as finding out about some of the Bailey colleges.

10 minutes

Kingsgate Footbridge

Kingsgate Footbridge, Durham, DH1 3AN

Learn the gruesome story behind this site’s namesake whilst enjoying some divisive 20th century architecture.

15 minutes

Durham Crown Court

Old Elvet, Durham DH1 3HW, UK

Durham’s 200 year old prison has been ‘home’ to some of England’s most infamous criminals. Learn about how prisoners exercised, escaped and were executed.

15 minutes

The Racecourse

Durham DH1 3BN, UK

Now part of Durham University, the Old Racecourse is a forgotten part of the city.

5 minutes

The Dun Cow

37 Old Elvet, Durham, DH1 3HN

The oldest pub in the city. The perfect location for locals to have a good old day out and enjoy a hanging from the gallows.

10 minutes

Elvet Bridge

Elvet Bridge, Durham

At the historic Elvet Bridge, hear the tragic tales of some of the city’s previous occupants…some of whom are still believed to be around today.

15 minutes

Durham Cathedral

The College, , Durham, DH1 3EH

We enter the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage site on Palace Green and explore the various buildings around Palace Green that are steeped in history. Here we will talk about the battles, tragedies and miracles that feature heavily in the Durham story. The climax of the takes us to the doors of Durham Cathedral.

20 minutes