Durham City Walking History Tour

Step back in time and uncover over a thousand years of history on a Durham City Walking Tour led by renowned local historian and archivist David Butler.

This free, 90-minute guided walk through the heart of Durham takes you on a fascinating journey from the city’s founding in 995 to the vibrant present day. Along the way, you’ll explore some of Durham’s most iconic streets and spaces, including Millennium Square, Market Place, Saddler Street, Owengate, Palace Green, Windy Gap, Broken Walls, and Silver Street, before returning to the Market Place.

Although the tour doesn’t go inside Durham Cathedral or Durham Castle, David brings these UNESCO World Heritage landmarks vividly to life with stories and insights from outside. His knowledge and passion make this more than just a sightseeing stroll – it’s an opportunity to truly understand how Durham became the city we know today.

The tours are free of charge and designed for small groups, creating plenty of chances to ask questions and engage with Durham’s rich past. Please note, the route is not wheelchair accessible due to steps in certain locations.

📍 Meeting point: outside the top of the Market Hall entrance ramp, Market Place, Durham City
🕰️ Tour duration: approx. 90 minutes
💷 Price: Free (advance booking required)

To reserve your place on a Durham history walking tour, please email marketing@durhammarkets.co.uk or call 0191 384 6153. Places are limited, so booking ahead is essential.

Discover Durham’s history on foot – join a guided walking tour of Durham and see the city in a whole new way.