Durham Castle
An 11th-century Norman castle, now a working college for Durham University, offering guided tours of its historic interiors.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience.
Durham Castle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An 11th-century Norman castle, now a working college for Durham University, offering guided tours of its historic interiors.
"A fascinating experience in a beautiful setting, well worth the visit!"
Book Tours in Advance
:ticket: Tours are guided & essential for non-students. Book ahead as they sell out!
Wear Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: You'll be doing a fair bit of walking on historic floors.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great Hall
Inside Durham Castle
Experience the grandeur of this historic dining hall, often used for formal dinners and events. Imagine students feasting here for centuries.
Norman Chapel
Inside Durham Castle
Step into one of the oldest parts of the castle, a serene space with centuries of history echoing within its walls.
Tunstall Chapel and Gallery
Inside Durham Castle
Explore these beautifully preserved spaces, offering a glimpse into the castle's religious and artistic past.
Palace Green Views
Outside Durham Castle
Admire the castle's imposing exterior from Palace Green, a UNESCO World Heritage site shared with Durham Cathedral.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Understand Student Accommodation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tours in Advance
:ticket: Tours are guided & essential for non-students. Book ahead as they sell out!
Wear Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: You'll be doing a fair bit of walking on historic floors.
Ask Your Guide Questions
:question: Guides are knowledgeable students; they love sharing insights!
Explore Palace Green
:world_map: Combine your castle visit with the stunning cathedral nearby.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tours in Advance
:ticket: Tours are guided & essential for non-students. Book ahead as they sell out!
Wear Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: You'll be doing a fair bit of walking on historic floors.
Ask Your Guide Questions
:question: Guides are knowledgeable students; they love sharing insights!
Explore Palace Green
:world_map: Combine your castle visit with the stunning cathedral nearby.
Manage Expectations
:information_source: It's a student residence, so not all areas are accessible.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Durham Castle for its historical significance, knowledgeable guides, and affordable tours. The unique experience of touring a living castle, now a university college, is a major highlight. While some note that not all areas are accessible due to student accommodation, the overall consensus is that it's a fascinating and well-worthwhile visit for its insights into Norman architecture and medieval life. +2
"Durham Castle is well worth a visit! The route you can take is fairly short at around an hour but the price reflects this and you get some excellent information throughout. We were self guided but there are tours available. The guides are knowledgeable and bring the history of the castle to life, making it a fascinating experience in a beautiful setting. A great way to spend an hour in Durham!"
Matthew Roberts
"We took the tour to be able to access the castle grounds and interior - much cheaper than expected and the hour long tour was very interesting. We visited 7 areas of the castle and learned a little about the history behind each room. There was an exhibit on display during our visit which was at no extra cost."
Chris Creed Leadbeater
"Absolutely well worth the £5 entry fee, but book in advance as they sell out and don't run every day.
The blonde lady who checked us in and gave us our lanyards at Palace Green Library was perhaps the nicest lady I've ever met. She talked us through where to go, what to expect and other parts of the historic UNESCO World Heritage site to visit to make a day of it.
Our tour guide (I wish I could remember her name; I want to say Dia..? She was a Literature student), was very professional and knowledgeable, and guided us through a fascinating 45-minute tour of the Norman chapel, Tunstall Chapel and Gallery, Black Stairs and the Great Hall. No, you can't go in the Keep as that's a student residence, but I feel like if the people complaining on reviews did even a minute's research before they went, they wouldn't be disappointed.
You could take pictures all the way around and tour groups are kept relatively small, so you get time to ask questions of your guide. We learnt so much about the history of the historic building. Well worth a visit, but do some research first!"
Alex Strickland
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Durham Castle is located on Palace Green in the heart of Durham city. It's easily accessible on foot from the city center. If arriving by train, it's about a 15-20 minute walk uphill to the castle. Parking is limited in the city center, so public transport or walking is recommended.
Yes, Durham Castle and Durham Cathedral are adjacent to each other on Palace Green, forming a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can easily visit both in one day.
Durham is well-connected by train, with regular services from major cities like London, Edinburgh, and Newcastle. Driving is also an option, but be aware of city center parking restrictions and costs.
Parking directly at Durham Castle is not available for visitors. There are several public car parks in Durham city center, such as the Prince Bishops Shopping Centre car park, but they can be busy and incur fees.
Due to its historic nature, accessibility can be challenging. Some areas may have uneven surfaces or stairs. It's advisable to contact the castle directly to discuss specific accessibility needs before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Durham Castle is typically via a guided tour, which costs around £5 per person. This fee grants access to several key areas of the castle and provides historical insights.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your tour tickets in advance, as they often sell out. You can usually book online through the University College Durham website or in person at the Palace Green Library.
Tour times can vary depending on the academic calendar and university events. It's best to check the official University College Durham website for the most up-to-date tour schedule and availability.
For non-students, guided tours are generally the only way to access the interior of Durham Castle. The exterior and Palace Green are freely accessible.
While specific discounts aren't always advertised, student or group rates might be available. It's worth checking the booking website or contacting the castle directly for any potential concessions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Tours typically cover areas like the Great Hall, Norman Chapel, Tunstall Chapel and Gallery, and the Black Stairs. You'll learn about the castle's history from its Norman origins to its current use as a university college.
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside Durham Castle during tours, allowing you to capture the historic architecture and atmosphere.
Most guided tours of Durham Castle last approximately 45 minutes to an hour, providing a comprehensive overview of its history and key features.
No, the student accommodation areas, including the Keep, are private residences and are not accessible to the public on tours.
Occasionally, there are temporary exhibits displayed within the castle as part of the tour, offering additional historical context at no extra cost.
📸 📸 Photography
For stunning exterior shots, focus on Palace Green, especially with Durham Cathedral in the background. Inside, the Great Hall and chapels offer great photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is generally restricted in historic city centers and around heritage sites like Durham Castle due to safety and privacy concerns. Check local regulations before flying.
Absolutely! Its medieval architecture, imposing presence, and scenic location make it incredibly photogenic, often compared to Hogwarts.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for exterior shots. Midday can be harsh, but the interior spaces are well-lit for photography.
While general photography is allowed, always be mindful of your surroundings and any specific instructions from your tour guide regarding sensitive areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The comparison to Hogwarts can also be a great hook for younger visitors. Remember that the castle is a working university college, so access is limited. It's best to book tours in advance to secure your spot.
Comfortable shoes are a must, as there will be walking involved on potentially uneven surfaces. 🏰 History Buffs
Don't miss the chance to learn about the castle's transformation over the centuries. The guides often share fascinating anecdotes and historical context that go beyond what's visible.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Living Piece of History: Durham Castle as a University College
Visitors can appreciate the castle's historical significance while also understanding its contemporary function. The tours are designed to showcase the most impressive and historically relevant areas, providing a rich narrative of the castle's evolution. The fact that it's a working college adds a layer of authenticity, making it more than just a static museum.
For prospective students, the prospect of living in such an iconic setting is a major draw, with many describing it as a dream come true.
The castle hosts various events throughout the year, from formal dinners in the Great Hall to social gatherings, further highlighting its role as a community hub for its students. +1 This blend of historical grandeur and student life makes Durham Castle a truly special destination. Photography at Durham Castle: Capturing Medieval Majesty
Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows and highlight the castle's textures, making it particularly photogenic during the 'golden hours'. Inside, the tours grant access to several historically significant areas perfect for photography. The Great Hall is a standout, with its impressive scale and historical ambiance.
The Norman Chapel and Tunstall Chapel and Gallery also offer unique perspectives on medieval design and religious art. Many visitors compare the castle's aesthetic to that of Hogwarts, making it a dream location for fans of the Harry Potter films, even though filming primarily occurred at the Cathedral.
The combination of its ancient stone, grand halls, and the surrounding UNESCO World Heritage site ensures that photographers will find plenty to capture, from sweeping vistas to intricate architectural details. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit