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Join us on this exclusive tour of the Cathedral’s secret spaces that are rarely open to the general public.
Your two hour tour begins in the Chapter House where the medieval bishops of Durham were laid to rest. Your guide will then lead you to be immersed in darkness in our monastic prison cell.
You will then have the chance to view some of the Cathedral’s rarest printed books alongside a facsimile copy of the Magna Carta. These are kept in the former Refectory of the monastery which was converted into a library over 350 year ago.
After that you will enjoy private access to the Magna Carta and the North exhibition which will display our three editions of Magna Carta including the only 1216 copy still in existence.
The tour will end in the medieval Great Kitchen, now home to the Treasures of St Cuthbert which include his 7th century wooden coffin, the Pectoral Cross and the original Sanctuary Ring.
Complete your tour with an optional afternoon tea in Prior’s Hall which includes a selection of sandwiches, homemade scones, a variety of miniature cakes, Rainforest Alliance filter coffee and Fairtrade tea (Gluten Free and Vegetarian options are available on request).
Please note that the Refectory Library and Prior’s Hall are only accessible via stairs.
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Magna Carta and the North - Durham Cathedral800 years after the 1225 Magna Carta was issued, this exhibition will feature all six documents, exploring why Durham Cathedral came to have them, what they meant for life in the north of England, and their continuing importance today.
Find out what’s happening this week across the Culture County. From festivals and exhibitions, to sport and theatre, you’re certain to have an eventful time in Durham.
