History of Durham city walk
A guided walk from Crook Hall Gardens delving into the history of Durham.
- Booking not needed
- Free event
Join Crook Hall Gardens volunteer and local historian David Butler to explore Durham's captivating history, from its Anglo-Saxon origins onwards. The walk will take you around the city centre, before returning to Crook Hall Gardens. Approximately 2 miles/3.2km.
Free - donations welcome. There's no need to book, but places are limited and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.
Please note: Tours are run by a small volunteer team, so occasional dates need to be cancelled each month. If you are visiting to attend a tour, please confirm it is going ahead by calling in advance on 0191 383 1832.
Times
The basics
- Accessibility
The route includes four flights of steps and a steep slope, plus five road crossings. The route is approximately 2 miles/3.2km, at a gentle pace with lots of stops.
- Meeting point
Meet at the admissions hut by the entrance to Crook Hall Gardens.
- Suitability for children
Children welcome, must be accompanied by an adult.
- What to bring and wear
Please wear sensible footwear and weather appropriate clothing.
- Other
This walk lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Maximum stay in our car park is usually 3 hours. If you'd like to stay longer to visit the gardens or café before or after the walk, please leave your registration number at the admissions desk.
Upcoming events
Crook Hall Gardens tour: history and literary links
Step into Crook Hall Gardens' past on a guided tour.
Crook Hall Gardens tour: horticulture
Join our gardening guru volunteers for a horticultural tour of Crook Hall Gardens.
Dahlia Flower Arranging Workshop with The Northern Flower Garden
Join florist Debbie from The Northern Flower Garden to celebrate the beauty of late summer by arranging flowers together.
Heritage Open Days at Crook Hall Gardens 2026
Enjoy free entry to Crook Hall Gardens for Heritage Open Days on 16 & 19 September.