Durham Cathedral & Castle
Durham Cathedral
A World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s finest Norman cathedrals, rising on a hill-top peninsula encircled by the River Wear, alongside the castle.
Durham Cathedral was begun in 1093 and is the best-preserved Norman building in England. Its massive carved pillars and early ribbed vault are milestones in architectural history. Inside are the shrine of St Cuthbert and the tomb of the Venerable Bede. The cloisters served as a filming location for Harry Potter. In 1986 the cathedral and the opposite Durham Castle were jointly inscribed as a World Heritage Site. Entry to the cathedral is free (donations suggested), but climbing the tower’s 325 steps costs extra. The castle is now home to a college of Durham University, and visits require joining a guided tour. From Newcastle, the train takes about 15 minutes, followed by a roughly 15-minute walk from the station.
Opening hours
Church about 09:30–17:00; visits restricted during Sunday services
Nearby sights
- Palace Green Library
- River Wear Riverbanks & Prebends Bridge
- Durham Market Place
- River Wear Cruises & Rowing Boats
- Crook Hall & Gardens
- Oriental Museum
- Durham University Botanic Garden
- Finchale Priory