FREE monthly history tours of Durham’s Market Hall will begin next week (Thursday, February 11).

Historian and archivist David Butler will give free hour-long tours on the second Thursday of each month, starting at 10.30am; the first being on Thursday, February 11.

The Hall has been home to the city’s markets for 160 years but the site previously hosted a palace belonging to the Nevilles of Raby Castle, a factory and a workhouse.

Mr Butler leads guided walks around the city and has written and lectured extensively on its 19th century history.

He said: “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, said: “We often get asked about the history of the building.

“These tours 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.”

The tours start at the main Market Hall entrance, off the Market Place. Places are limited. To book, call 0191-384-6153 or email: durhammarkets@yahoo.co.uk