Free monthly tours will give visitors the chance to delve into the past of Durham Market Hall to discover not only more than 160 years’ history as home to the City’s markets but also its past as the site of a palace belonging to the Nevilles of Raby, as a factory and a workhouse.
Historian and Archivist, David Butler, will be giving free tours at 10.30am on the 2nd Thursday of each month, the first taking place on Thursday, February 11th, 2016. Mr Butler, though not originally from Durham, has lived in the North East for more than 40 years, and gives regular guided walks around the city, county and the wider North East. He has written and lectured extensively on aspects of the nineteenth century history of Durham City, including the history of the Durham Markets Company.
David commented: “What you see of the Victorian building from inside is intriguing enough, but there is so much more that is not visible from the current Market Hall, and this is a chance to get to know the building much better, as well as the history of the site before it became home to the city’s bustling markets.”
Colin Wilkes, Managing Director of Durham Markets, added: “We often get asked about the history of the building. These tours therefore are the perfect opportunity to explore with someone very knowledgeable, knowing you can ask any questions you have, and if there’s an answer, David will know it. Everyone is welcome, and with David they are guaranteed an entertaining and fascinating hour.”
The hour long tours are free. Places on each tour are limited. Anyone wishing to join a tour should email durhammarkets@yahoo.co.uk or call Karen on 0191 384 6153 to reserve their place. Tours will leave from the Main Market Hall entrance off the Market Place.
For more information on David Butler’s other walks, including his Ghost Walks, see www.dhent.co.uk