DURHAM CASTLE

Durham castle resides at the heart of Durham’s world heritage site. The Durham castle is now part of Durham University and is home to students of the university college. However, it is still a living castle and the top tourist attraction in Durham, where you can see the great hall, the black staircase, Tunstall Gallery, Tunstall Chapel, Norman Chapel, and the Courtyard.

Settled on the same peninsula of land overlooking the green river, Durham Castle was one of the first castles built by William Conqueror during his Ferocious.

In the middle ages, the castle served as the centre of power and was used to counter the Scots' threat. In 1837 the Durham castle changed hands and became part of Durham’s University, where college students reside. 

Durham castle covers three main sides of the courtyard, i.e., the old inner bailey. You can also witness the additions made by many bishops over time. Every bishop has placed his coat of arms on the wall.

Check out the Great hall, i.e., a relic of the 13th and 14th centuries and now serving as a dining hall for Durham University students. Still, the great hall is stuffed with military memorabilia. It includes relics from the Napoleonic wars and the Civil war and various unique paintings, making it among the most beautiful places to see in Durham. 

Location - Durham DH1 3RW, United Kingdom

Timings - Open for guided tours throughout the year in the afternoons during academic term and mornings and afternoons during university holidays.

Entry Fees (if Applicable) - Adults £5.00, children’s entry is free

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Highlights

• Explore the gallery of Great Hall, where you can find many military memorabilia consisting of relics from Napoleonic and Civil war and multiple portraits of Bishop’s past.
• Explore The Black Staircase, located between Bishop Pudsey’s building and the Great Hall, which got its name from the dark oak out of which it is made and reaches 57 feet in height.
• Check out the oldest part of Durham castle, which is largely intact in the Norman Chapel and is blessed with incredible stonework.