Who we are
In 2012, following the closure of the Tourist Information Centre in Durham City, four notable local people decided some form of assistance for visitors to Durham City was essential, particularly as the Cathedral and Castle are part of a renowned World Heritage Site. Thus Durham Pointers was born, and, along with help from a core of other volunteers, we took to the city centre to act as mobile signposts, standing out in our very distinctive pink tabards.
Now we are celebrating over 10 years in operation and have over 60 local volunteers who are prepared to give up their time to help visitors find their way around the City during spring, summer and autumn, seven days a week. You will see us in the Market Place (in our trendy pink tabards!) between 9.30 and 15.30 Monday to Friday, 10.00-14.30 on Saturday and 11.00-15.00 on Sunday
All Pointers have a good knowledge of Durham City and its surroundings and, if required, can also gain more detailed information from our own directories which are regularly updated. It’s not often we can’t find an answer to a question! Visitors are welcomed from all over the globe and we gain much praise for our service. Often we are given a donation, which is much appreciated as we are a “not for profit" organisation depending on such support.
A committee of ten people meet monthly to help keep us organised, taking on tasks such as chair, secretary, treasurer, rota, directory, fund raising/sponsorship, access issues,website and social media. We welcome new volunteers to Point and/or to help with any of these activities.
Having won the Queen’s Award for Services to Tourism (the organisation equivalent of an MBE!) in 2015 we have subsequently twice won the North East of England Tourism Gold Award (2017 and 2018) and were also very proud to receive the prestigious Durham County Council’s Chairman’s Medal in May 2018.
As an aside to our normal duties we have also set up a Meet and Greet service to welcome coach parties of visitors as they arrive at the drop off point near the city centre.
As you will have now realised, we are here to help and Point you in the right direction!
Our fame is spreading! We’re delighted to see that Durham Pointers are mentioned on these websites: Momondo City Guides (in German), the Kayak Travel Guide and in Rick Steve’s travel guide. Check them out for even more information about our beautiful city.
