Durham Castle: Norman Heritage and University Residence
Explore over 1000 years of history in Durham Castle, a Norman fortress turned vibrant university college at the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Durham Castle, a Norman fortress built in the 11th century, stands proudly on Palace Green overlooking the city of Durham. Now home to University College, it offers guided tours revealing over 1000 years of history, from its origins under William the Conqueror to its role in modern academia. As part of Durham’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, the castle combines medieval architecture with vibrant student life, inviting visitors to explore its historic halls, chapels, and gardens.
A brief summary to Durham Castle
- Durham, DH1 3RW, GB
- +441913343800
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.75 to 1 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book your guided tour tickets in advance at Palace Green Library to secure your spot, as tours often sell out.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves stairs and uneven surfaces; wheelchair access is limited.
- Visit on weekday afternoons for smaller tour groups and a more intimate experience.
- Combine your visit with Durham Cathedral and the surrounding World Heritage Site for a full historical day out.
- Photography is allowed during tours—bring a camera to capture the medieval architecture and scenic views.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Durham railway station, take a 15-20 minute uphill walk to Palace Green where Durham Castle is located. Frequent local buses also serve the city center, with stops near the castle. Public transport is recommended due to limited parking.
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Walking
If staying in Durham city center, the castle is easily accessible on foot via historic streets. The walk involves some cobblestones and gentle inclines, suitable for most visitors with moderate mobility.
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Car
Parking near Durham Castle is limited and the city center has congestion charges. The nearest public car park is at Prince Bishops Shopping Centre (postcode DH1 3UJ), about a 10-minute walk from the castle. Plan for parking fees.
Durham Castle location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Durham Castle
A Norman Stronghold with a Storied Past
Durham Castle was constructed shortly after the Norman Conquest, around 1072, under the direction of the Earl of Northumberland. Its imposing stone walls and strategic position atop a rocky promontory overlooking the River Wear symbolized Norman power and control in the north of England. The castle served as the residence of the Prince-Bishops of Durham, who wielded both secular and ecclesiastical authority, making the castle a seat of considerable influence throughout medieval times.Architectural Highlights and Historic Interiors
Visitors on the guided tours can explore key areas such as the Great Hall, the Norman Chapel dating back to 1080, the Tunstall Chapel, and the Black Stairs. The Norman Chapel is one of the oldest surviving parts of the castle, notable for its sandstone construction and intricately carved column capitals. The castle’s architecture reflects its defensive origins alongside later adaptations for residential and academic use, blending medieval fortification with university college facilities.Living History: A University College Today
Since 1837, Durham Castle has functioned as the home of University College, part of Durham University. Students live and study within its historic walls, maintaining a unique blend of ancient heritage and vibrant academic life. While much of the castle remains a private residence, guided tours provide a rare glimpse into the castle’s interior, revealing how the building continues to serve educational and ceremonial purposes.Guided Tours and Visitor Experience
Access to the castle interior is by guided tour only, lasting approximately 45 to 50 minutes. Tours depart several times daily during university term and holidays, with tickets purchased at the adjacent Palace Green Library. The tours offer rich storytelling, covering over a millennium of history, architecture, and the castle’s evolving role. Due to the building’s historic layout, the tour involves stairs and uneven surfaces, limiting wheelchair access.Setting Within a World Heritage Site
Durham Castle, together with Durham Cathedral, forms the heart of the Durham UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its outstanding medieval architecture and cultural significance. The castle’s location on Palace Green provides stunning views of the cathedral and the surrounding cityscape, making it a focal point of Durham’s historic center. The castle grounds and nearby gardens offer a tranquil environment amidst the bustling university and city life.Events, Accessibility, and Practical Information
Throughout the year, the castle hosts various public and private events, including family-friendly activities during school holidays. While no food or drink is sold onsite, nearby amenities in Durham city center cater to visitors. Parking is limited near the castle, and public transport or walking is recommended. Photography is generally permitted during tours, allowing visitors to capture the castle’s historic ambiance.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Framwellgate Bridge
0.1 km
Durham’s oldest stone bridge, a medieval marvel offering iconic views of the cathedral and river, steeped in history and timeless charm.
Market place
0.2 km
Medieval marketplace meets Victorian grandeur—Durham's beating heart of commerce, culture, and community.
Durham Town Hall
0.2 km
Victorian civic landmark hosting culture, heritage, and community in Durham's historic heart.
Durham British Israel Fellowship
0.3 km
Discover the Durham British Israel Fellowship: A historical church offering community spirit, stunning architecture, and a glimpse into Durham's rich heritage.
Kathedra
0.4 km
Explore the Kathedra in Durham, a stunning gothic stone chair by the river, perfect for history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Durham
0.5 km
Explore Durham Cathedral, a Norman architectural masterpiece and spiritual sanctuary with stunning views, sacred relics, and rich medieval heritage.
Durham Viaduct
0.5 km
A majestic Victorian railway viaduct soaring over Durham’s River Wear, blending engineering excellence with stunning historic city views.
Durham Obelisk
0.9 km
A hidden 90-foot sandstone tower concealed by woodland, marking Durham's forgotten astronomical heritage.
Durham Band Stand
0.9 km
A peaceful riverside bandstand with one of Durham’s most iconic cathedral views, perfect for quiet moments and photography by the River Wear.
Maiden's Bower
0.9 km
Explore Maiden's Bower, a serene Bronze Age cairn nestled in Durham's Flass Vale, where ancient history meets tranquil woodland beauty.
Maiden Castle Earthwork
1.2 km
Explore Durham’s ancient Iron Age promontory fort with its impressive earthworks nestled in tranquil woodland overlooking the River Wear.
Ludworth Tower
8.3 km
A rare 15th-century pele tower standing as a testament to medieval border fortifications
The High Level Bridge
21.4 km
A pioneering double-deck Victorian bridge uniting rail and road across the River Tyne, symbolizing Newcastle’s industrial heritage.
Tyne Bridge
21.5 km
An iconic steel arch bridge spanning the River Tyne, symbolising NewcastleGateshead’s industrial heritage and modern spirit.
Quayside
21.5 km
Quayside is a dynamic riverside district where iconic bridges meet vibrant culture, blending industrial heritage with modern art and lively waterfront life.
Unmissable attractions to see
World Heritage Site Visitor Centre
0.1 km
Free gateway to understanding Durham's UNESCO World Heritage Site and medieval treasures
Palace Green Library
0.1 km
Explore Durham’s historic Palace Green Library, a treasure trove of rare books, exhibitions, and heritage in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Palace Green
0.1 km
Historic green heart of Durham, framed by Norman cathedral and castle, blending medieval power with academic heritage.
Riverside walk
0.1 km
Explore Durham’s scenic 3-mile riverside loop with historic bridges, cathedral views, and tranquil green spaces along the River Wear.
Museum of Archaeology • Durham University
0.1 km
Explore northeast England’s ancient past in a historic university library at the heart of Durham’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Revolution Durham
0.1 km
Lively lounge and restaurant on Durham’s riverside offering creative cocktails, seasonal British fare, and rooftop views of historic landmarks.
Escape Rooms Durham
0.2 km
Immersive puzzle adventures in Durham's historic centre—from spy missions to gothic mysteries.
Department of History • Durham University
0.2 km
Explore history where Durham’s rich past meets vibrant academic excellence at the University’s historic North Bailey location.
Umbrella alley
0.2 km
A vibrant canopy of colorful umbrellas brightening Durham’s Millburngate Shopping Centre with artful charm and urban whimsy.
The Vintage Shop
0.2 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm in the heart of Durham at The Vintage Shop in Market Tavern.
The Riverwalk
0.2 km
A vibrant riverside shopping and leisure destination in Durham, blending retail, dining, entertainment, and scenic charm.
The House of Eden
0.2 km
Discover handmade treasures and personalised gifts in this charming boutique nestled in Durham Market Hall’s vibrant heart.
Durham Pointers
0.2 km
Your welcoming gateway to explore Durham’s rich heritage, cultural events, and local insights from the heart of Market Place.
Durham Museum
0.2 km
Medieval heritage and local history in the heart of historic Durham, near the cathedral.
Durham Market Hall
0.2 km
Victorian market hall where 40+ independent traders celebrate Durham's heritage and local character.
Essential places to dine
Akarsu Turkish Restaurant & Grill
0.1 km
Authentic Turkish flavors and vibrant dining in the heart of historic Durham with stunning river and landmark views.
Gussto Tapas Bar - Durham
0.1 km
Authentic Spanish tapas in a historic riverside setting at the heart of Durham.
PESTO ITALIANO
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with warm hospitality in the heart of historic Durham at Pesto Italiano.
La Spaghettata
0.1 km
Durham’s longest-standing independent Italian restaurant, serving authentic, hearty Italian dishes in a cozy, welcoming setting since 1996.
Uno Momento
0.1 km
Generous Italian portions and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of historic Durham’s Silver Street.
Turkish Kitchen Meze and grill
0.1 km
Authentic Turkish grilling and meze in Durham's vibrant city centre, where tradition meets modern hospitality.
The Curious Mr Fox
0.1 km
A stylish riverside restaurant and cocktail bar in Durham, famed for fresh British dishes, quirky décor, and expertly crafted drinks.
Flat White Kitchen
0.1 km
Experience Durham’s finest coffee and brunch in a cozy 17th-century townhouse with a modern rustic vibe and welcoming atmosphere.
The Cellar Door
0.1 km
Historic riverside dining with seasonal Modern European cuisine and scenic terraces in the heart of Durham.
Fat Hippo Durham
0.2 km
Savor bold, inventive burgers in a quirky multi-level venue on historic Saddler Street, Durham’s heart of casual dining.
Tango Durham
0.2 km
Lively American-style burgers, fresh local produce, and creative cocktails in Durham’s vibrant city centre with riverside terrace dining.
Zizzi - Durham
0.2 km
Modern Italian dining in the heart of Durham – wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and a relaxed atmosphere just steps from the cathedral.
Lebaneat
0.2 km
Experience authentic Lebanese flavors with generous portions and diverse dietary options in the heart of historic Durham.
Tapas Factory
0.2 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and Mediterranean flavors in Durham's vibrant city center.
19Twenty Bar & Grill
0.2 km
Modern grill and cocktail bar on Durham’s Elvet Bridge, serving gourmet burgers and steaks with scenic riverside views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cloth
0.1 km
Discover Durham’s hidden basement gem for costumes, vintage clothing, fabrics, and party supplies all in one quirky, creative boutique.
People's Bookshop Durham
0.1 km
Discover Durham’s vibrant radical bookshop, a volunteer-run haven for second-hand books and community stories.
The Georgian Window
0.1 km
Discover stylish ladies’ fashion, unique gifts, and elegant accessories in the heart of Durham at The Georgian Window.
Italian Clothes Room Inside Georgian Window
0.1 km
Discover elegant Italian fashion in Durham’s historic Georgian window boutique, blending timeless style with personalized service.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
0.1 km
Discover timeless Scottish knitwear and heritage fabrics at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Durham’s historic Saddler Street.
The Mugwump
0.1 km
Discover Durham’s iconic boutique blending vintage fashion, unique gifts, and local art in a charming historic setting.
The Boathouse
0.1 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at The Boathouse in Durham, a charming shop showcasing local designs and a welcoming atmosphere.
Whittard of Chelsea Durham
0.1 km
Premium tea, coffee, and gifts in Durham's historic Market Place—where expertise meets elegance.
Circle Vintage Durham
0.1 km
Discover Durham’s largest curated vintage clothing collection in a charming historic boutique on Saddler Street.
Waceland Durham
0.2 km
Discover handpicked vintage gems and streetwear essentials in a family-run boutique at the heart of Durham’s Saddler Street.
Collected
0.2 km
A warm, independent bookshop in Durham with curated reads, coffee, cakes, and a lively events programme on The Riverwalk.
BEAR BOTTOM
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts, collectibles, and local craftsmanship at Bear Bottom, Durham’s beloved indoor market shop.
Rohan Durham - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
0.2 km
Discover Rohan Durham, your premier destination for high-quality outdoor clothing and gear, perfect for every adventurer in the beautiful English countryside.
WHSmith
0.2 km
Books, stationery, and local treasures in Durham's vibrant Market Place.
Elvet & Bailey
0.2 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local artisan treasures at Elvet & Bailey, Durham’s beloved boutique in Prince Bishops Shopping Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Shakespeare
0.1 km
A historic and quirky Durham pub famed for its real ales, theatrical roots, and ghostly tales in a cosy 12th-century setting.
Old Toms Gin Bar
0.1 km
Discover Durham’s riverside gem with over 250 gins, artisan boards, and expert Ginologists crafting unforgettable cocktails.
Blue Eye
0.2 km
Durham’s stylish cocktail bar with creative drinks, lively vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere on historic Elvet Bridge.
The Fighting Cocks
0.2 km
A lively, affordable pub in Durham’s city centre, perfect for casual drinks and socializing in a friendly, unpretentious setting.
The Library
0.2 km
A lively pub and social hub in Durham offering quality drinks, creative vegan dishes, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere from morning till late.
Osbournes
0.2 km
A vibrant, intimate bar and club in Durham known for its lively music nights, extensive gin selection, and welcoming local vibe.
Tin Of Sardines Gin Bar - Durham
0.2 km
Discover Durham’s tiniest gin bar with a colossal selection, expert service, and an intimate, unforgettable atmosphere on Elvet Bridge.
The Three Bridges
0.2 km
A lively British pub in Durham blending traditional charm with modern dining, drinks, and sports in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Holy GrAle
0.3 km
Discover Durham’s vibrant craft beer scene at The Holy GrAle, a quirky bar with local brews, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Swan & Three Cygnets
0.3 km
Traditional riverside pub with a no-technology policy, affordable drinks, and cosy charm beside Durham’s historic Elvet Bridge.
Babylon Durham
0.3 km
A buzzing, budget-friendly bar and nightclub in Durham offering lively nights, packed dance floors, and a true local nightlife experience.
The Half Moon Inn
0.3 km
Historic Tudor pub on Durham’s riverside offering award-winning ales, scenic courtyard views, and a warm local atmosphere.
The Angel
0.3 km
A cozy and vibrant traditional pub in Durham, offering local ales, hearty meals, and lively events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Ye Old Elm Tree
0.3 km
Historic Durham pub blending centuries-old charm with a lively, welcoming atmosphere and excellent real ales.
33 Durham
0.3 km
Discover 33 Durham, a cozy speakeasy cocktail bar blending vintage charm with expertly crafted drinks in the heart of Durham city.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fabio's Bar
0.1 km
Durham’s lively student nightclub and live music bar above the iconic La Spaghettata, buzzing with events and authentic local charm.
Jimmy Allens
0.2 km
Dive into Durham’s iconic vaulted nightclub where free entry, cheap drinks, and lively crowds create unforgettable nights beneath Elvet Bridge.
Klute
0.2 km
Durham’s iconic, unapologetically rough nightclub famed for nostalgic beats, cheap drinks, and a legendary student party atmosphere.
Loft Durham
0.3 km
Discover Loft Durham, the ultimate nightlife destination offering vibrant music, energetic dancing, and a chic atmosphere in the heart of Durham.
Bohemia Durham
0.3 km
Bohemia Durham pulses with vibrant nightlife energy, offering dynamic music and a lively social scene in the heart of historic Durham.
7even Nightclub
18.8 km
Sunderland’s alternative nightclub with two floors of indie, soul, and rock music, hosting themed parties and vibrant late-night events.
Warehouse Night Club(SR44)
21.5 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant underground gay nightclub scene at Warehouse Night Club (SR44), where eclectic music and lively parties come alive.
Digital
21.5 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
21.6 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
TheCUT Newcastle
21.7 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Tup Tup Palace
21.7 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife in style at Tup Tup Palace, a luxurious club blending exotic décor with pulsating beats until the early hours.
The Social Club
21.7 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Bohemia Newcastle
21.8 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
21.8 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
21.8 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
