Middlesbrough’s best tours showcase the gritty charm of this northeast English industrial town. The guided walking tours stand out, particularly those exploring the Victorian architecture and industrial heritage – they’re informative and well-paced. I especially love the cathedral quarter walks in nearby Durham, where passionate local guides bring centuries of history to life. The food tours are a pleasant surprise, offering authentic tastes of Yorkshire puddings, local ales, and regional specialties in historic pubs. For independent travelers, the self-guided tour app works well, giving you freedom to explore at your own pace. Check out these recommended tours that combine the best of Middlesbrough’s history, culture, and flavors.
Key Points
- The Whitby Tour App offers an independent and flexible sightseeing option in Middlesbrough, with access to interactive features like a Hidden Gems Treasure Hunt.
- The Durham Food Tour provides a 2.5-hour culinary journey with a personalized experience, visiting various eateries and sampling local delicacies and beverages.
- The Durham Private Walking Tour offers a customizable heritage-focused experience led by a local expert, with insights into the cathedral quarter and industrial development.
- The Pub and History Tour in Durham combines exploration of the city’s history with visits to local pubs, offering a unique and recommended experience.
- The Wonderful Durham – Family Walking Tour is a guided tour led by a professional local expert, providing historical insights and suitable for families and unique local experiences.
Guided Walking Tour of Durham & Its Infamous Characters
Where can visitors to Durham embark on an engaging exploration of the city’s captivating history and notorious characters? Look no further than the highly-rated Guided Walking Tour of Durham & Its Infamous Characters.
This 163-review, 100% traveler-recommended tour offers an immersive experience led by a Durham University graduate. Priced at just $12.54 per person, this family-friendly and wheelchair-accessible tour takes groups of up to 50 travelers on a captivating journey through Durham’s past.
Along the way, you’ll uncover insights into the city’s literary and mining heritage, as well as encounters with dragons, saints, and even a serial killer. The engaging storytelling from the knowledgeable guide brings these stories to life, while offering stunning views of the cathedral and city center.
With convenient meeting and end points, as well as positive reviews praising the pace, information, and overall experience, this tour is an excellent way to orient yourself in Durham and explore its rich, complex history.
Read our full review: Guided Walking Tour of Durham & Its Infamous Characters Review
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Walkabout Durham History Tour
The Walkabout Durham History Tour offers visitors an engaging exploration of the city’s captivating past. This 1.5-hour walking tour takes participants from the Market Place to the renowned Durham Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour highlights the city’s rich history and provides insightful commentary. Priced at $20.07 per person, the tour accommodates up to 20 travelers of all ages, including leashed dogs.
While the tour doesn’t include building entry, it focuses on the city’s outdoor historical sites, ensuring an immersive experience. Participants will receive recommendations for local food and attractions upon tour completion.
With a 5.0 overall rating from 59 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, the Walkabout Durham History Tour has earned a Badge of Excellence.
The tour’s flexible booking options and opportunity for questions during the experience make it an attractive choice for visitors seeking to uncover the rich heritage of Durham.
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Durham City Walking Tour
Visitors seeking an immersive exploration of Durham’s captivating history can embark on the Durham City Walking Tour. Led by knowledgeable Blue Badge guides, this private tour offers a tailored itinerary based on guests’ interests. Guests will explore the history-steeped streets and landmarks of Durham, uncovering characters like the little Count of Poland.
The tour provides insights into the River Wear, Durham University, and the bustling market place. With a 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this flexible tour caters to group preferences.
Inclusions span admission to the Durham Market Place, Elvet Bridge, Saddler Street, Durham Cathedral, and Durham Castle, along with complimentary coffee or tea. Operating year-round, the tour is accessible, family-friendly, and suitable for moderately fit travelers.
Reviews highlight the tour’s informative content, captivating views, and valuable historical insights, making it a must-do experience for visitors to Durham.
Read our full review: Durham City Walking Tour Review
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Durham Food Tour
Although Durham is renowned for its historic landmarks, the city’s vibrant food scene offers a tantalizing exploration for visitors.
The Durham Food Tour, operated by Triple A Food Tours, provides an engaging 100% recommended experience. For £100.34 per person, travelers can embark on a 2.5-hour journey to discover the city’s diverse culinary offerings. The tour departs at 11:30 am from Market Place, opposite Boots, and returns to the same location.
During the tour, you will visit various eateries and restaurants, sampling a range of local delicacies and beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour offers an intimate and personalized experience.
Reviewers have praised the tour, with all 57 reviews rating it a perfect 5 stars. However, it’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for those with back problems.
Read our full review: Durham Food Tour Review
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Pub and History Tour of Durham With Alcohol Tasting
For those seeking to explore Durham’s rich history and sample its local libations, the Pub and History Tour of Durham With Alcohol Tasting offers a captivating experience.
This 14-review, 100% traveler-recommended tour takes participants on a journey through the city’s pubs, where they’ll enjoy a half-pint of cask ale or draught beer/cider at each of four locations.
The tour starts at the iconic Man on the Horse statue in the Market Place and concludes at the picturesque Elvet Bridge, providing a unique opportunity to explore Durham’s landmarks and soak up its vibrant atmosphere.
With a maximum of 10 travelers and a start time of 5:00 PM, this tour is a perfect way to experience the city’s rich heritage and lively pub culture.
Priced from $37.63 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Pub and History Tour of Durham With Alcohol Tasting is a must-try for anyone visiting Middlesbrough.
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Durham Private Walking Tour
Exploring the historic city of Durham on a private walking tour allows visitors to enjoy the cathedral quarter, discover the university’s medieval heritage, and gain insights into the region’s industrial development.
Led by a local expert, this customizable tour offers tailored commentary based on the group’s interests. At $244.57 per group of up to 10 people, the tour provides exceptional value, with the added benefit of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
The tour’s highlights include visiting lesser-known viewpoints and attractions, as well as stops designed to minimize foot traffic at key locations, allowing participants to explore Durham at their own pace.
The tour is accessible, with service animals allowed, nearby public transportation, and stroller and wheelchair accessibility.
With an impressive 4.9/5 rating from 7 positive reviews, this private walking tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an in-depth and personalized introduction to the rich history and culture of Durham.
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Durham City Half Day Tour
Visitors to Durham can dive into the city’s storied past on the Durham City Half Day Tour, which offers an immersive exploration of its UNESCO-protected sites. The tour covers key highlights like the 11th-century Durham Cathedral, the Open Treasure exhibition, and the historic Durham Market Hall.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the experience promises to uncover hidden gems and historical details often missed when sightseeing alone.
The tour is accessible, with wheelchair and stroller access, and children are welcome when accompanied by an adult. Participants should have a moderate fitness level, and service animals are permitted.
For communication on the day, a contact mobile number is required. While the tour operates in all weather conditions, visitors are advised to dress appropriately.
COVID-19 safety measures are in place, with social distancing protocols observed. With flexible departure times and a maximum of 15 travelers per group, the Durham City Half Day Tour provides a personalized and engaging way to discover this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site.
Read our full review: Durham City Half Day Tour Review
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Wonderful Durham – Family Walking Tour
Although Middlesbrough may not be the first destination that comes to mind, the Wonderful Durham – Family Walking Tour offers families a delightful opportunity to explore the rich history and charming sights of the nearby city of Durham.
Priced at $200.20 per person, this private tour takes participants on a guided journey through the city’s landmarks, starting at the National Trust’s Crook Hall Gardens and ending at the Durham Market Hall.
The tour includes a professional local guide who’ll bring the city’s history to life, and is accessible by public transportation, though not wheelchair-friendly.
Most travelers can participate, and with the option to cancel up to 24 hours before the experience, the tour provides flexibility and a lowest price guarantee.
Whether you’re a family looking to discover the wonders of Durham or a traveler seeking a unique local experience, the Wonderful Durham – Family Walking Tour is a must-consider option in the Middlesbrough area.
Read our full review: Wonderful Durham – Family Walking Tour Review
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Whitby Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK
For those seeking a more independent and flexible sightseeing experience in Middlesbrough, the Whitby Tour App, Hidden Gems Game, and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) offers an engaging and self-guided adventure.
With a 3.7 overall rating from 3 reviews, this 1-day pass provides access to a variety of interactive and educational activities. Priced at just $18.81 per group of up to 10 people, the pass offers anytime access and flexibility, allowing you to start and explore at your convenience.
The included Hidden Gems Treasure Hunt and self-guided tour can be accessed via the Loquiz app, providing GPS-guided navigation and the freedom to choose your own starting point and route.
This private tour is perfect for families or groups, with the option to share a single ticket. Although not wheelchair accessible, the experience is stroller-friendly and welcomes service animals.
Travelers can conveniently meet in Whitby, UK, and return to the same location at the end of their adventure.
Read our full review: Whitby Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK Review
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Recap
Middlesbrough offers a variety of engaging tours that cater to diverse interests. From guided walking tours exploring the city’s history and characters to food tours and pub crawls, there’s something for all. Visitors can explore Durham’s rich heritage, discover hidden gems, and enjoy a mix of cultural and culinary experiences. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, these tours provide an excellent way to explore the best of Middlesbrough.