Durham Museum

About

Owing to essential building maintenance, Durham Museum is currently closed.

Relive the story of Durham from medieval times to the 20th century in this excellent local history museum. Enjoy models of the medieval city and the 19th century Market Place and explore the reconstruction of a Victorian prison cell.

Displays describe the origins and development of the city and there are many fascinating objects that illustrate everyday life, social life and the lost trades and industries. A recent addition to the collections is a pair of stained glass panels depicting Cecily de Neville and the Richard Duke of York the parents of Richard III, originally at Brancepeth Castle.

The museum is situated in an historic Grade I Listed building, close to the World Heritage Site of Durham Cathedral and Castle, once the parish church of the North Bailey It was rebuilt in the 17th century and retains impressive woodwork from that period. The churchyard is now the museum garden and contains two important sculptures, St Cuthbert and Gaia by the renowned artist Fenwick Lawson.

A visit to the Museum with its stimulating exhibitions, models, hands-on activities and videos is the perfect introduction to Durham.
The museum has a selection of replica brasses from English churches to allow you to make a unique rubbing.