Durham Cathedral, England

Durham Cathedral Stately Homes in Durham, County Durham, England

Welcome to Durham Cathedral

Commonly referred to as “the greatest example of Romanesque architecture in Europe” or as American writer Bill Bryson puts it “the best Cathedral on planet earth”. The existing building was started in 1093 and took forty years to complete. It existed as a Benedictine Monastery until the dissolution in 1539, becoming one of the Church of England’s major Cathedrals. In 1986 it was inscribed as part of the Durham World Heritage Site.

Admission

Entry to Durham Cathedral is free (though we are always grateful for any donations). Admission charges apply to our permanent exhibitions (see Explorer Ticket below) and for climbing the tower. The Undercroft Restaurant and Cathedral Shop are located off the Cloisters.

Explorer Ticket

For admission to our permanent exhibitions in the Claustral buildings, an Explorer Ticket (£5 adults, £4 concessions, free for children under 16) can be purchased providing discounted access to The Treasures of St Cuthbert, the Monks’ Dormitory and The Story of St Cuthbert and Durham Cathedral. This provides a discount over paying for these attractions individually.

The Tower

On a clear day see fabulous views of the City of Durham, the River Wear, County Durham and beyond. The Angel of the North can be seen facing the Cathedral.

The Tower is open year round (weather permitting) but is closed during Services and special events. With regret, there is no disabled access due to the nature of the narrow spiral staircase. The climb to the top can be strenuous and visitors do so at their own risk. Suitable footwear must be worn.

Admission

Adults £5.00

Children under 16 £2.50