North East in Blossom 2025: History walk - Crook Hall Gardens to Botanic Garden
A walk through the city to appreciate its riverside location, history and architectural heritage.
- Booking advisable
- Free event
Join local historian David Butler for a guided walk through Durham, linking Crook Hall Gardens with Durham University Botanic Garden. The walk will take you along the River Wear, looking at the historic bridges of the city and learning how the river was made to work for the city’s inhabitants. You’ll also see the university's architectural heritage at its Lower Mountjoy site, as well as the location of a former coal mine.
Stop at the Botanic Garden to explore and enjoy lunch in the hidden beauty of the gardens. Return to Crook Hall, taking in spring scenery and spotting blossom along the way.
The walk starts and finishes at Crook Hall Gardens, approximately 4 miles/6.4km, and will take about 6 hours, including a stop for lunch. There are refreshments and toilet facilities available at both Crook Hall Gardens and the Botanic Garden.
Free - donations welcome. Book by emailing pearl.saddington@nationaltrust.org.uk. Booking recommended, walk-ins will be accepted on the day subject to availability.
Times
The basics
- Booking details
Call N/A Book by emailing pearl.saddington@nationaltrust.org.uk.
- Suitability
Children are welcome, but must be accompanied by an adult.
- Meeting point
Meet at the admissions hut by the entrance.
- What to bring and wear
Please wear sensible footwear and weather appropriate clothing.
- Accessibility
Some slopes, steps and uneven ground. 4 miles/6.4km with plenty of stops.
- Other
Maximum stay in our car park is usually 3 hours. If you'd like to stay in the car park for the duration of the walk, please leave your registration number at the admissions desk.
Upcoming events
History of Durham city walk
A guided walk from Crook Hall Gardens delving into the history of Durham.
Crook Hall Gardens tour: history and literary links
Step into Crook Hall Gardens' past on a guided tour.
North East in Blossom 2025: Feltmaking workshop with RT Projects
Create your own unique piece of artwork with wool, silk and yarns, using the ancient art of wet felting.