North East Festival of Blossom 2026: History walk - Crook Hall Gardens to Durham Uni Botanic Garden

About

A walk through the city to appreciate its riverside location, history and architectural heritage, enjoying blossom along the way.

Join local historian David Butler for a guided walk through Durham, linking Crook Hall Gardens with Durham University Botanic Garden via the Oriental Museum. 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 stop at the Oriental Museum for a short presentation before heading to the Botanic Garden to enjoy lunch (bring a picnic or visit the café onsite), bask in blossom and learn about the gardens. Return to Crook Hall by a different route, 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.

Children welcome, must be accompanied by an adult.
Meet at the admissions hut by the entrance.
Please wear sensible footwear and weather appropriate clothing.

Free - donations welcome.