Pub and History Tour of Durham with Alcohol Tasting

Exploring Durham’s historic streets and atmospheric pubs in one tour offers a unique blend of storytelling and local flavor. Priced at $41.13 per person, this 2-hour 30-minute experience is designed for those interested in Durham’s architecture, its legendary Prince Bishops, and the dark tales of its past. The tour departs from Durham Market Place at 5:00 pm and includes four pub stops, where guests enjoy local cask ale along with engaging stories from a knowledgeable guide. With a maximum group size of 10, the tour maintains an intimate, friendly atmosphere that allows for personal interaction and a relaxed pace.

While the tour is priced slightly higher than some similar experiences, the inclusion of eight stops and the opportunity to sample real ale in historic venues makes it a solid choice for history enthusiasts and beer fans alike. The consistent 5.0/5 rating from 18 reviews underscores the tour’s quality and the appeal of its themed stops. Keep in mind, this experience is over 18s only and involves walking, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Key Points

• Combines Durham’s history with pub visits for a well-rounded experience.
• Four historic pubs included for ale tasting and stories.
• Expert guide shares tales of conquest, miracles, and the darker side of Durham’s past.
• Tour lasts around 2 hours 30 minutes, starting at Market Place.
• Group size limited to 10 travelers for personal attention.
• Suitable for adults interested in history and local drinks.

Exploring Durham’s Historic Market Place and Its Stories

The tour begins at Durham Market Place, the vibrant heart of the city, where the guide sets the scene with stories about the buildings and the people who have shaped Durham. This spot provides a glimpse into the city’s development from medieval times, making it a compelling starting point. The walk from this central location is short, leading directly to the first pub, setting the tone for a mix of history, folklore, and local hospitality.

In this initial segment, attention is given to how Durham’s architecture reflects its past. The guide recounts tales of conquest and miracles, helping visitors appreciate the rich narrative woven into the city’s physical fabric. The free admission to this part allows guests to enjoy the atmosphere before heading to the pub.

The Historic Charm of The Shakespeare Pub and Saddler Street

The first pub stop, The Shakespeare, resides in Saddler Street, an area famed for its historic significance and lively ambiance. Here, guests enjoy ale tasting while hearing stories of Durham’s folklore and the pub’s own history. This venue offers a cozy, authentic pub experience, perfect for soaking in the local vibe.

The stories shared in this part of the tour add depth, connecting the pub’s history to the larger narrative of Durham’s past. This stop lasts approximately 20 minutes, providing enough time to chat, sample, and soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

Walking Around Palace Green and the UNESCO World Heritage Site

Guests stroll around Palace Green, where the founding of Durham and the legend of the Prince Bishops are explained in detail. The green is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, making this section visually stunning and historically significant.

The guide highlights Durham’s medieval origins and the importance of the Prince Bishops, who held both religious and secular power. The walk here lasts about 20 minutes, and guests enjoy viewing the impressive architecture that still dominates the skyline.

Crossing Kingsgate Footbridge to Elvet and the Next Pub

Next, the tour walks across the iconic Kingsgate Bridge, a modern yet symbolic crossing that links the historic parts of Durham. This 10-minute walk offers scenic views and a chance to appreciate Durham’s blend of old and new.

The journey continues into the borough of Elvet, home to the Victoria pub. This classic historic pub is the setting for more stories about Durham’s local history and notable residents. Guests can enjoy another drink and absorb the lively atmosphere for around 20 minutes.

The Darker Side of Durham at the County Court

A walk from the Victoria takes visitors to the Durham County Court, where tales of crime, execution, and prison history are shared. This stop, lasting about 15 minutes, reveals the city’s less celebrated past, including infamous criminals and notable prison events.

The guide’s storytelling here provides a serious counterpoint to the earlier folklore, illustrating the city’s complex historical layers. This stop also signals the move towards the final stages of the tour, with a focus on Durham’s darker history.

A Visit to The Dun Cow and Old Elvet Streets

The third pub stop, The Dun Cow, is located on Old Elvet, a street full of historic significance. The pub’s stories and folklore deepen the understanding of Durham’s local traditions. Guests spend about 20 minutes enjoying their local ale and listening to tales that bring the street’s history to life.

This part of the tour emphasizes Durham’s community spirit and the importance of its historic pubs as social hubs. The walk to this pub showcases Old Elvet’s architecture, adding visual richness to the experience.

Crossing Elvet Bridge and Finishing at the Half Moon Inn

The final part of the walk involves crossing Elvet Bridge, one of Durham’s notable historic bridges. After a brief 10-minute walk, guests arrive at the Half Moon Inn, the last pub stop.

Here, the tour concludes with a final drink in a lively city-center bar that offers plenty of food and drink options nearby. The 20-minute stay allows for relaxed conversations, closing out the journey with a sense of community and appreciation for Durham’s stories.

Practical Logistics and Booking Details

The tour departs from Durham Market Place at 5:00 pm and ends at Elvet Bridge, within walking distance of the starting point. The experience is operated by Walkabout Durham, with a max group size of 10 to ensure a personalized experience.

Booking is straightforward, with most reservations made about 59 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The tour uses a mobile ticket, and cancellations are free if made 24 hours prior, offering flexibility for travelers.

The Value of the Pub and History Tour of Durham

At $41.13 per person, the tour offers a thoughtful mix of history, folklore, and pub culture. The inclusion of four pub stops and ale tastings provides a tangible connection to Durham’s past and present. The expert storytelling from guides like Peter, praised for their knowledge and engaging style, enhances the experience significantly.

While the tour involves walking and standing, it remains suitable for most physically able adults. It’s particularly ideal for those who enjoy history, architecture, and local drinks in a relaxed, small-group setting. The high review scores and consistent rating of 5.0/5 confirm its reputation as a well-organized and enjoyable experience.

Durham’s Pub and History Tour: A Memorable Blend

This tour successfully combines Durham’s historic landmarks with the atmosphere of its venerable pubs, making it more than just a sightseeing walk. The storytelling about legendary figures, notorious criminals, and the city’s founding keeps guests engaged, while the pub stops allow for genuine local tasting and relaxed conversations.

The experience’s short duration and small group size make it manageable and personal, ideal for adults interested in history and local culture. It offers an entertaining, informative taste of Durham that balances educational content with fun and socialization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, this tour is over 18s only due to alcohol tasting and walking involved.

What is included in the tour?
Guests visit eight stops, including four pub stops with cask ale tasting and storytelling about Durham’s history and folklore.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, starting at 5:00 pm.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Durham Market Place and finishes at Elvet Bridge, close to the starting point.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, cancellations made 24 hours in advance are fully refundable; later cancellations are not.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

How many people are typically in a group?
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, ensuring a comfortable, personal experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves walking between stops.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
The data does not specify accessibility details, so it’s best to inquire directly if needed.

How do I book this tour?
Bookings can be made through the provider, Walkabout Durham, with most reservations made about 59 days in advance.

Is food available during the tour?
While the tour ends at a pub with food options nearby, food is not explicitly included in the experience.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of historic landmarks, engaging storytelling by knowledgeable guides, and pub visits with local ale create a rich, memorable experience of Durham.