Historical Land Adventure: Durham Full Day Tour by Iles Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, with some walking and standing.
Overview
Discover Durham's rich history on this immersive full-day tour, featuring stunning cathedral architecture and insights into local heritage. Perfect for history lovers and cultural explorers.
Small Group - Durham full day Tour
Ages 18+ • 8 Hours
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About This Adventure
Embark on an immersive 8-hour journey through Durham, exploring the rich history of the powerful Prince Bishops. Visit Durham University's Archaeology, the stunning UNESCO-listed Durham Cathedral, and the Auckland Project. Enjoy a delicious lunch and convenient pick-up and drop-off, making this a memorable day of discovery and heritage.
The Prince Bishops
Duration
8 Hours
About
The Prince Bishops of Durham were incredibly powerful lords and religious leaders in the North of England during the Middle Ages. They wielded the power of both secular lords and medieval bishops – being able to rival monarchs at points in their power.
During this tour, we will travel through Durham, exploring the city and visiting Durham University's Archeology. From there, we will have lunch before proceeding to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Durham Cathedral. Following this, we will travel to Bishop Auckland and the Auckland Project - a Multi-million regeneration project in the North of England. The Castle was where the Bishops of Durham had their palace and today tells their story as well as the story of faith in the British isles.
This tour is a whole-day tour. Entry to all sites is included. We offer pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation on the day – please provide us with information about where you would like to be collected. Lunch is included on this tour.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
Expect to walk on uneven surfaces and spend time standing, so bring comfortable footwear.
Bring water and a camera
Stay hydrated and capture the stunning architecture and scenic spots around Durham.
Plan for weather
Check the forecast and dress accordingly, as parts of the tour are outdoors.
Book in advance
Space can fill up quickly; reserve your spot early for this popular tour.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Birds like sparrows and swallows
- Squirrels in the cathedral grounds
History
Durham’s history dates back to the Norman conquest, with the cathedral built in the 11th century as a defense against Scottish invasions.
Conservation
Durham’s sites are actively maintained to preserve their historical integrity while promoting sustainable tourism.
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Adventure Hotspots in Newcastle upon Tyne
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Walking shoes
Comfortable shoes suitable for walking and standing throughout the day.
Camera or smartphone
Capture the stunning scenes and historic architecture.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during the outdoor parts of the tour.
Weather-appropriate clothing
Dress for the weather to ensure a comfortable experience.