Guided Walking Tour of Durham & its Infamous Characters: Discover a City Steeped in History

Join our guided walking tour of Durham and uncover the fascinating stories of its infamous characters. From Narnia to mining, dragons to saints, and even a serial killer, this tour is a captivating journey through the city’s rich history.

Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Durham Market Place - At the heart of Durham’s historic old town, your guide will tell the story of Lord Londonderry, whose statue dominates the scenery, and Durham’s mining heritage.
  • Elvet Bridge - Situated on the winding River Wear, above the former dungeons of Durham, Elvet Bridge sets the scene for the story of Jimmy Allen, the People’s…
What's Included
  • Local history and folklore expertise
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities
Additional Information

This excursion offers much more than a simple journey around Durham. It delves deeply into the narratives interwoven with its residents and their histories. From connections to the magical realm of Narnia to its traditions rooted in mining, from tales elicited by dragons and saints to accounts of a serial murderer, Durham offers a treasure trove of…

Location
Gala Theatre & Cinema
Millennium Place
Coming from Market Place, cross the bridge towards the Gala Theatre, then turn left onto Millennium Place and you will see your guide, usually equipped with an umbrella , and always with a backpack, standing by the statue of pilgrims carrying St Cuthbert's coffin, in front of Clayport Library.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(217 Ratings)
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Nicka819
Aug 12, 2025
Excellent host and a great tour - highly recommended ! - Excellent tour from start to finish - Tom was engaging, funny, looked out for everyone and had a great story for every part of Durham. Thoroughly recommended 👏
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Agu_bg
Aug 9, 2025
Great guided tour! - Tom was great! Storytelling on point, humour, passion, engagement! We’ve seen Durham beyond the obvious! I’d wholeheartedly recommend! I
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Greciana
Aug 9, 2025
Fabulous tour of Durham - Ben was an excellent guide. Knowledgable and engaging. Super tour to learn about Durham and its famous characters. One of the best tours we have done.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
John
Aug 7, 2025
Great walking tour, wonderful guide. - A great insight into the history of Durham and some of its more famous characters. Tom was engaging and knowledgeable and really brought the stories to life.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Simon_f
Aug 6, 2025
Walking Tour of Durham - Tom is an excellent and entertaining guide. Would highly recommend this activity. Very knowledgeable and informative. Easy to talk to and helpful.
Review provided by Viator
Anne_t
Aug 2, 2025
Super interesting tour with Tom - A tour with a difference hearing about the infamous characters of the Durham of old. Tom is a very engaging narrator and holds your attention throughout. One of the best tours we have done.
Review provided by Viator
Purlieu_lady
Aug 2, 2025
Essential when visiting Durham and have no mobility issues. - Enjoyed every minute of it! Tom is a very knowledgeable and gifted story teller. We saw bits of Durham that we would not have visited on our own, as well as all the main sights.
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Davidwy2955kg
Jul 29, 2025
An enjoyable tour of the lovely city of Durham - Tom is a knowledgeable and engaging guide. This made my first trip to Durham very worthwhile. It’s a 90 minute tour and isn’t too hard on the feet.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
David_j
Jul 27, 2025
I rate Tom and this walking tour first class! - Be prepared to be amused by Tom. Full of information but he made it interesting and funny. You don't want to miss a word! Durham is very hilly so be prepared for a few slopes, cobbles and steps during the walk. I rate Tom and this walking g tour as first class!
Review provided by Viator
Nickifin2015
Jul 23, 2025
- We went on this very enjoyable and informative walk with Tom on the last Saturday of the Durham Brass Festival. Despite persistent rain and battling with the lively street bands, Tom was unflappable and managed to keep our bedraggled band of tourists entertained, amused and fully engaged even when soaked through! Highly recommended!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $14
up to 15 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).