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Explore Durham City on a Walking Tour - Book Durham Sightseeing via Varoom in Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire
Join Ken Bradshaw, a Blue Badge guide for North East England, for a tailored walking tour that brings Durham to life as you explore medieval streets and follow the banks of the River Wear; you’ll discover quirky backstreets, canny viewpoints and topical points of interest that reveal the city’s rich history. Along the way you’ll visit the colleges of world-renowned Durham University, hear vivid stories about characters from the little Count of Poland who played his fiddle in the Victorian theatre to powerful Prince Bishops, and learn about the notorious coal baron, the 3rd Marquis of Londonderry, whose statue dominates Durham market place. This engaging, customizable experience is ideal for culture seekers, families and groups looking for immersive Tours & Sightseeing and local insight into County Durham, and you can check out my website and videos to preview the beautiful landscape of the region before you book through Varoom.
About this activity in Middlesbrough
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Highlights
- Join Ken Bradshaw, a Blue Badge–qualified guide, for a personalised walking tour of historic Durham that’s tailored to your interests.
- Explore medieval streets and scenic riverside paths along the River Wear while discovering quirky backstreets and striking viewpoints.
- See the colleges of Durham University and hear colourful stories about local characters, from Victorian performers to Prince Bishops and notable market figures.
- Gain local insight from a professional guide who also shares videos and resources about County Durham and the wider north east region to enrich your visit.
Important Information
- The tour is guided and customised to your preferences, so you can focus on architecture, history, or hidden gems in the city.
- You should have at least a moderate level of fitness to comfortably walk cobbled and riverside routes; uneven surfaces are likely in the medieval quarter.
- The experience is wheelchair accessible where possible and service animals are welcome, but please note some streets and viewpoints may involve steps or narrow passages.
- Public transport options are available nearby for arrivals from Middlesbrough and the wider North Yorkshire region; plan connections in advance for a smooth start.
Meeting Point
Meet outside the statue in Durham Market Place near the central market area - a clear, central point close to Elvet Bridge and Saddler Street for easy access.
Includes
- All fees and taxes are included in the price so you won’t see surprise charges when booking from Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire.
- Your booking includes admission to Durham Market Place - a key stop if you’re exploring Durham from the area.
- Admission to Elvet Bridge is included, giving you access to this central Durham landmark during your visit.
- Admission to Saddler Street is included, so you can experience this popular Durham thoroughfare as part of your itinerary.
Excludes
- Coffee and/or tea are not included in the booking, so plan accordingly for refreshments during your trip.
- Admission to Durham Cathedral is not included, so you’ll need to purchase entry separately if you want to visit.
- Admission to Durham Castle is not included and must be arranged independently if you choose to see it while you’re in the region.
Other
- This experience is wheelchair accessible to support travelers with mobility needs.
- Service animals are allowed, making the activity more accessible for guests who rely on them.
- Public transportation options are available nearby, helping you reach Durham sites easily from Middlesbrough and the surrounding area.
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries - please consider your condition before booking.
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers - assess suitability with your healthcare provider prior to booking.
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health - the activity may require exertion.
- You should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness to fully enjoy the experience in this destination.
Customer Reviews
10/10
Based on 10 Reviews
Summary:
Excellent Durham City Tour led by very well informed, enthusiastic and friendly guide Ken. He took into account places we’d already explored and adjusted the walk accordingly. A thoroughly enjoyable and informative couple of hours.
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Summary:
Spent a great two hours with Ken. There were just two of us on the tour. He is warm and friendly and knowledgeable. Nice easy tour of beautiful Durham. Not a strenuous walking tour as Durham is not big, suitable for most people. Great tour guide. Thanks for making it fun Ken!
Sarah and Tom from New Zealand.
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Summary:
Ken was a friendly and knowleadgable guide - providing local history and stories with connections to other parts of Britain. We learned a few new things about William the Conqueror and his superstitions as well as an unlikely friendship between a near-giant man and a poetic Polish dwarf. This 2 hour walk also gives some good exercise.
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Know more about Middlesbrough
With Ken Bradshaw’s Blue Badge for North East England, you’ll get a professionally trained guide who tailors the walking tour to your interests while bringing Durham’s medieval streets and River Wear to life.
Yes - the guide will tailor the route and commentary to your personal interests, focusing on quirky backstreets, canny viewpoints and topical points of interest that match your preferred themes.
The tour’s flexible format and tailored commentary make it a good fit for Family & Kids and Group-Friendly bookings, letting you focus on storytelling, local characters and sights that appeal to your group.
You’ll walk through medieval streets, along the River Wear and past the colleges of Durham University, while hearing stories of characters like the little Count of Poland, the powerful Prince Bishops and the 3rd Marquis of Londonderry whose statue dominates the market place.
The walk combines outdoor nature and sightseeing as you explore historic streets, riverside views and notable city landmarks that highlight the beautiful landscape of County Durham and north east England.
Check the guide’s website to view videos showcasing the beautiful landscape of County Durham and north east England and to get a sense of the walking tour experience before you book.