A brand-new cultural destination is coming to Durham City, and it’s set to shine.

The Light is the fresh new name for the exciting venue taking shape at Aykley Heads, bringing art, history, science and creativity together under one beautifully redesigned roof.

Opening in 2026, The Light will be a place where visitors can experience inspiring exhibitions, enjoy moments of reflection in stunning natural grounds, grab a coffee in a relaxed café space, and discover stories that shaped the county.

A space where creativity, culture and community come together

The Light will feature the county’s only contemporary art gallery, showcasing world-class exhibitions and celebrating the very best of modern creativity. Light-themed artworks will play a starring role, adding a unique glow to the venue.

The building’s heritage will also shine through. Once home to the former Durham Light Infantry (DLI) Museum and Art Gallery, the venue will include a dedicated DLI Gallery, sharing powerful stories of the regiment through objects, documents and original film footage.

Inspired by the past. Designed for the future.

The Light’s name reflects both its history and Durham’s long connection with light, from the Venerable Bede’s 1,300-year-old lunar calendar to Durham University’s role in the James Webb Space Telescope. Today, this iconic site has been carefully rebuilt from the ground up, transforming it into a modern, vibrant cultural hub.

Much more than a gallery, visitors will be able to:

• Wander through inspiring exhibitions
• Relax in a welcoming new café
• Explore peaceful outdoor spaces
• Attend events and creative workshops
• Host meetings or celebrations in a truly unique setting

Whether you’re a Durham local, a returning visitor, or discovering the city for the first time, The Light will offer something special for everyone.

Pictured: Cllr Karen Allison, Cabinet member for leisure, tourism, regeneration and high street, and Cllr Joe Quinn, Cabinet member for planning, investments and assets, at The Light.

A shining part of Durham’s future

Located at the heart of Durham City’s emerging Innovation District, The Light will play a key role in bringing people together, from artists and students to families and businesses. It will sit alongside The Story, the permanent home of the DLI Collection, helping to strengthen Durham’s reputation as a place where culture, heritage and imagination thrive.