Museums, Galleries and Exhibitions
The Museums, Galleries and Exhibitions team within University Library and Collections care for more than 100,000 objects spread across the Oriental Museum, Museum of Archaeology and Durham Castle Museum, as well as the University Art Collection and parts of the University Biosciences Collection.
These collections range in date from 250,000 years ago to the present day and come from more than 60 different countries worldwide.
In addition to our public galleries, and ambitious exhibition and events programmes, we also contribute to a wide range of teaching and research activity within the University. Our curators provide support and guidance to students and academics at Durham University and from around the globe, enabling them to work with our collections both physically and online in support of teaching, research, outreach and impact.
Explore our collections
Search Our Collections
Explore our collections online, refine your search results or get in touch for more support.
About Our Collections
Find out more about the range and depth of each of our collections.
How to use our collections and get support
Using Our Collections
From making an appointment to research the collections to obtaining permission to publish.
Academic Support
Find out how our expert staff can support your teaching, research and impact activities.
Our research-led international projects
Projects and Partners
Learn more about our range of research-led international projects and partnerships.
Case Studies
Our case studies provide some examples of different ways we can work with you.
Museums and Collections sites
We have a number of sites across University Library and Collections, including fantastic libraries, research rooms, museums and galleries.
Barker Research Library at Palace Green
Our Archives and Special Collections are held within Barker Research Library, located in the historic Palace Green Library. Visit our guide for opening times and further information, or use our online enquiry form.
Barker Research Library
Palace Green Library
Palace Green
Durham
DH1 3RN
United Kingdom
Durham Castle
Sitting at the heart of Durham's World Heritage Site, Durham Castle is now home to the students of University College, as well as our museum and collections. For opening times, visit our website.
Durham Castle
Palace Green
Durham
DH1 3RW
Museum of Archaeology
The Museum of Archaeology's collections range from the prehistoric to the post-medieval. Our gallery charting the story of Durham is housed within Palace Green Library. For opening times, visit our website.
Museum of Archaeology
Palace Green Library
Palace Green
Durham
DH1 3RN
Oriental Museum
From Ancient Egypt to modern China, our Oriental Museum is the only museum in the North of England devoted entirely to the art and archaeology of the great cultures of Northern Africa and Asia. For opening times, visit our website.
Oriental Museum
Elvet Hill
Durham
DH1 3TH
United Kingdom
Explore our libraries, museums, and galleries
Visit Us
Find out how to visit our Libraries, Museums and Collections sites.
Partner Libraries
Find out more about our two partner libraries, Durham Cathedral Library and Ushaw College Library.
Explore our latest news and events
Latest News
Keep up to date with our latest news and additions to our collections.
Our Events
Search our events calendar, we offer a diverse range of activities and exhibitions.