Middlesbrough might not be as famous as nearby cities like Durham or Whitby, but it offers a surprising variety of engaging tours that cater to different interests. Whether you’re into history, food, or casual city walks, Middlesbrough’s diverse options prove its worth as a base for exploring the North of England. Among the standout experiences, the Guided Walking Tour of Durham & its Infamous Characters is a personal favorite for its lively storytelling and vivid insights into historic Durham (you can see more about it here). It’s perfect for those who want to combine a scenic stroll with stories that stick.
If you’re craving a culinary journey, the Durham Food Tour offers a three-and-a-half-hour tasting adventure through some of Durham’s top eateries, showcasing the city’s vibrant food scene (check it out here). For a quicker, more relaxed way to learn about Durham’s past, the Walkabout Durham History Tour provides a friendly, engaging 1.5-hour walk. And if your curiosity extends beyond Durham, the self-guided Whitby audio tour unlocks the legends and hidden corners of Whitby at your own pace (here). Last but not least, the Durham Full City Tour combines history and ghostly tales over a longer, two-and-a-half-hour walk for those who want a deep dive.
Here’s a quick overview: Middlesbrough acts as a hub for history-rich walking tours, food and drink explorations, and self-guided audio adventures. Now, let’s explore each option in detail to help you decide which tour suits your travel style best.
1. Guided Walking Tour of Durham & its Infamous Characters
At number 1 on our list, this lively 1 hour 30-minute tour captures the essence of Durham’s past with a guide who’s passionate and knowledgeable. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or those wanting a quick but engaging overview of the city. The tour explores cobbled streets, historic landmarks like Durham Market Place, Elvet Bridge, and Durham Castle, and dives into stories about notorious characters such as Britain’s first female serial killer.
What makes this tour stand out is the depth of local lore combined with stunning views of the cathedral and city center. Your guide, a Durham University graduate, brings history alive with anecdotes about Lord Londonderry, Jimmy Allen, and the city’s mining heritage. It’s family-friendly, wheelchair accessible, and perfect for anyone wanting a lively, story-driven experience. The reviews are glowing, with many praising the guide’s engaging storytelling—”Tom was knowledgeable and highly engaging,” says one traveler. The affordable price of around $13.77 makes it an excellent value for a fun and informative hour and a half.
Bottom line: This tour offers a well-rounded, entertaining introduction to Durham, perfect for curious travelers eager for stories and scenic views.
2. Durham Food Tour
For those who prefer their history served with a side of deliciousness, the Durham Food Tour ranks at number 2. This 3.5-hour experience takes you through Durham’s vibrant food scene, starting at the Market Place and visiting four top bars and restaurants. You’ll sample local produce, international dishes, and drinks—both alcoholic and non-alcoholic—while wandering charming cobbled streets and along the riverside.
This tour stands out because of its carefully curated stops, including the indoor market and local eateries known for their quality. The guide’s insights and the variety of tastings make it a culinary highlight. Expect opportunities to try Durham’s local specialties and learn about the city’s food culture from passionate traders. It’s a fantastic choice for food lovers or anyone wanting a more immersive experience of Durham’s modern vibe.
Guests note the dishes are very yummy, and the variety is impressive at just over $110 per person. While it’s on the pricier side, the chance to visit four restaurants and enjoy drinks at every stop provides great value. Ideal for those with a flexible schedule and an appetite for discovery.
Bottom line: If you’re into food and want to enjoy Durham’s culinary scene alongside its sights, this tour offers a memorable, flavorful experience.
3. Walkabout Durham History Tour
Number 3 is the Walkabout Durham History Tour, a 1 hour 30-minute stroll designed for those who want a friendly, relaxed overview of the city’s key sights. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a more informal approach. The guide, Peter, shares stories about Durham Market Place, Framwellgate Bridge, and Prebends Bridge, plus tales about Durham’s mills and riverbanks.
This tour excels in making history accessible and engaging for all ages. The guide’s enthusiasm and local tips add extra value, and dogs are welcome, making it practical for pet owners. Reviewers mention how entertaining and informative Peter is, with one saying, “Thoroughly enjoyed this walk; Durham’s stories come alive.” The price of around $22.03 makes it an affordable, no-fuss way to get your bearings.
Located in the heart of Durham, this tour gives you a solid introduction while allowing flexibility to explore on your own afterward. It’s especially suited for families or travelers eager for a friendly, story-based walk.
Bottom line: A friendly, straightforward way to learn about Durham’s past and get your bearings in a short, accessible package.
4. Essential Whitby: Discover the town’s legends on a self-guided audio tour
If you’re heading further afield, the Whitby self-guided audio tour offers a flexible way to explore the seaside town’s legends, landmarks, and hidden corners. Starting outside the Captain Cook Memorial Statue, this GPS-based experience takes around 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes and guides you through sites like Whitby Abbey, the Captain Cook Museum, and Pannett Park.
What makes this experience appealing is the lifetime access, allowing you to explore Whitby at your own pace. You’ll learn quirky facts, local legends, and enjoy the freedom to stop for fish and chips or a seaside stroll without a guide holding you up. The reviews highlight how enjoyable and easy it is to follow, with many appreciating the local insights and fun facts—”Very enjoyable and informative,” says one reviewer.
Using the VoiceMap app makes this tour user-friendly and offline-ready, ideal for independent travelers who like a bit of mystery and storytelling without the constraints of a group.
Bottom line: This audio tour offers a relaxed, flexible way to discover Whitby’s legends and scenery, perfect for curious explorers who prefer self-guided adventures.
5. Durham Full City Tour
Finally, the Durham Full City Tour combines all the elements of the history tour with added depth, lasting about 2 hours 30 minutes. It covers Durham Market Place, Framwellgate Bridge, Prebends Bridge, and explores the darker side of the city’s past, including prisons, executions, and hauntings.
What sets this tour apart is its expanded scope. You’ll learn about St. Oswald, the legendary king, and explore hidden gems beyond the main sights. The guide, Pete, is praised for his knowledgeable, engaging style, and many reviewers mention how he personalizes the experience—”Peter, our guide, made the tour a lot of fun.” It’s suited for those who want an in-depth exploration and enjoy ghost stories and legends to spice things up.
Priced at about $31.68, it’s a good value for the additional content and longer duration. It’s best for travelers who enjoy comprehensive tours with a mix of history, legends, and local stories.
Bottom line: For those wanting a deeper, more immersive experience—including some ghostly tales—this tour offers an excellent, detailed look at Durham.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing the best tour depends on your interests, time availability, and budget. For a quick intro to Durham’s stories and key sights, the Guided Walking Tour (here) offers excellent value. If you love food, the Durham Food Tour (here) delivers flavorful discoveries over 3.5 hours. For a faster historical overview, the Walkabout Durham (here) is ideal.
Travelers with more time and a curiosity for legends might prefer the Full City Tour (here), while those eager to explore Whitby at their own pace should consider the self-guided audio tour (here). Think about your budget, physical activity level, and whether you want guided insights or independent exploration. Booking early helps secure spots, especially in high season.
Final Thoughts
Middlesbrough serves as a launching point for a wide range of tours that suit different tastes and schedules. From short, lively city walks to longer, immersive heritage experiences and self-guided adventures, there’s something for all. For history lovers, the Guided Walking Tour of Durham offers storytelling that sticks; for foodies, the Durham Food Tour is a delicious delight; and if you prefer exploring at your own pace, Whitby’s audio tour opens up legends and sights in a relaxed way.
If you’re planning to explore Durham or Whitby, consider your interests and time constraints carefully. Booking in advance is always a good idea, especially during busy periods. Whatever your choice, these tours will deepen your appreciation of the North of England’s charming towns and their stories—so pick what excites you most and enjoy your journey.