Click for further Travel Club information
Already a member?
SIGN IN

Durham Castle and Cathedral

Durham CastleDurham Castle and Cathedral are renound as the one of the most popular historic sites in Europe and they are now designated a World Heritage Site.

Durham Cathedral was founded in 1093 and is regarded as a fine example of a Norman cathedral and houses the shrine and artefacts of St.Cuthbert of Lindisfarne and tomb of the Venerable Bede. It has a 217 foot tower which is open for you to climb to get the best view of Durham and the beautiful countryside. Here you will see the Prior Castell's Clock (c.1500) in the south transept.The nave has impressive carved pillars and stained glass windows that are mainly Victorian and a rose window at the far east end. The cloisters were rebuilt in 1828 and has a 12th century ironwork door. Entrance is free but donations are requested.

Durham Castle was formerly a Norman fortress built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror on a hill overlooking the River Wear and was an ideal location to defend Northumbria against the Scots. The central tower, or keep, was described as an excellent example of a motte and bailey, a mound with a keep or tower surrounded by a walled enclosure.

It became the residence of the Prince Bishops of Durham who governed the North on the king’s behalf and imposed taxes, minted coins and had civil and military jurisdiction. In 1837 the castle became the first university college, donated by the Bishop Van Mildert and is still occupied as a residence for students today. Here you will find the Gatehouse, the Black Staircase, made of dark oak and 57 feet high and the Great Hall housing military memorabilia from the Civil War and the Napoleonic Wars. Entrance is by guided tour and lasts about 45 minutes.

Plan your visit to Durham Castle & Cathedral