Durham Castle, Palace Green
Durham
County Durham
DH1 3RW
+44 (0)191 334 2932
Experience over 900 years of history on a Durham Castle Tour and discover how it functions today as the home of University College
Why not take a tour around one Durham's most significant historic buildings. Built on the orders of William the Conqueror in the 1070s, Durham Castle began life as a motte-and-bailey castle. It soon became a palace to showcase the wealth of the Prince-Bishops whose semi-regal powers made them one of the most powerful political and military men in the country.
Our knowledgeable and friendly tour guides will take you through the gatehouse and into heart of the historic building. Here you will experience history and tales from 900 years of living history. Find out about the Prince-Bishops whose seat of power was based at for hundreds of years at Durham Castle, learn how the building became the first college of Durham University and how today as the home of University College students still live and learn in Durham Castle.
Due to the residential nature of the building entrance is by guided tour only. Tours last approx 50 minutes.
During University term time the tours are at 1:15pm, 2:15pm, 3:15pm and 4:15pm. Out of term tours are at 10:15am, 11:15am, 12:15pm, 1:15pm, 2:15pm, 3:15pm and 4:15pm.
The following tour times are a general guide as it is sometimes necessary to cancel tours at short notice due to University or commercial activities. Please contact the Palace Green Library by telephone on +44 (0)191 334 2932 or check the website for current times, dates of tours and to book advance tickets.
Visitors wishing to take part in a guided tour of Durham Castle need to purchase tickets at the Palace Green Library or the World Heritage Site and then meet your tour guide at the entrance to the Castle. The historic nature and layout of the Castle means that the majority of the building is inaccessible to wheelchair users. The tour route involves many steps and staircases, some of which are uneven.
