Durham Castle
Durham and North East
Palace Green,

Durham Castle, together with the Cathedral, was awarded the status of a World Heritage Site in 1986 providing international recognition for this unique, historic and scenic site.

Sitting at the heart of Durham City's UNESCO World Heritage Site and occupied continuously since the 11th century, the Castle is now home to the students of Durham University and is open for guided tours throughout the year.

Built in the Norman period as an imposing fortress, Durham Castle’s story is entwined with that of the Prince-Bishops of Durham, whose semi-regal status made them some of the most powerful and wealthy men in the country.

Discover a castle that gradually turned into a lavish palace, which was affected by major historical events from the Norman Conquest to the English Civil War. It was transformed in the Victorian period into a place of learning, as the home of University College, the founding college of Durham University.

Today Durham Castle remains a living building, evolving to modern day life while retaining its power to impress as part of the iconic Durham skyline.