Durham Cathedral

About

Durham Cathedral has been a place of worship, welcome and hospitality for almost a millennium, inspiring all who come. Built in 1093 to house the Shrine of St Cuthbert, Durham Cathedral is renowned for its magnificent Romanesque architecture and spectacular location at the heart of the Durham World Heritage Site. It is also the resting place of the Venerable Bede.

Highlights include the 12th century Galilee Chapel with its original medieval wall paintings, the towering sandstone pillars in the Nave, and the stunning Rose Window in the Chapel of the Nine Altars. Don’t miss the medieval Cloister, which featured in the first two Harry Potter films, and see where Marvel Studios shot scenes from Avengers: Endgame.

Groups can enjoy either a guided tour of the Cathedral which lasts about one hour, or a free-flow unguided visit with a self-guide leaflet each available in 12 different languages. Further focus tours and talks are also available for more specialist interests, such as Stained Glass Windows, Embroidery & Textiles, the Cathedral Library, plus selected behind the scenes tours.

For a truly unique experience, a private organ recital can be arranged in the Quire, the heart of the Cathedral. Pilgrimage and Church groups also have the option of a private service in a Chapel for reflection after their visit. You could also climb the 325 steps of the central tower for magnificent views of Durham and the river below.

Durham Cathedral Museum boasts a journey through the UK’s most intact medieval monastic buildings including the 14th century Monks’ Dormitory and the Great Kitchen showcasing significant surviving Anglo-Saxon artefacts. 

Lunch or refreshments can be taken on an individual basis in the Undercroft Restaurant or together as a group in the medieval Prior’s Hall, which was formally the Prior’s dining room when the Cathedral was a Monastery. The Cathedral Shop, located in the Undercroft Foyer, stocks a range of books, gifts and local souvenirs to complete the day. 

Evening group visits can also be scheduled after-hours, to explore the Cathedral when it is closed to the public and can include private evening dining in the Undercroft Restaurant, or a drinks reception in the Cloister.

* Groups of all kinds are welcome to join us at the cathedral. We ask all groups to book ahead, which allows us to make sure there are no major events or services that would disrupt your visit. Out-of-hour visits can be arranged by approval.

Trade Contact

For further information please see Durham Cathedral Groups Visits or email visits@durhamcathedral.co.uk