Durham Castle Self Guided Visit

Take a tour around one Durham's most significant historic buildings, designated a World Heritage Site since 1986, and enjoy a rare opportunity to explore Durham Castle on a self-guided visit.

Today you can enjoy the historic and beautiful surroundings at your own pace - Durham castle is usually only accessed by guided tour, but on few selected dates throughout the year we are able to open the doors for self-led visits. Find out about the early days of the Castle, built in the 1070s as a Norman fortress by William the Conqueror, and learn about the powerful Prince-Bishops of Durham, whose seat of power was based for hundreds of years at Durham Castle. Discover how the building became the first college of Durham University and how today it is the home of University College students, who live and learn in Durham Castle.

Our friendly guides and volunteers will be around Durham Castle to answer your questions and share some of the stories and hidden history of the Castle.

Activities for children, including trails, colouring sheets and dressing up will be available on the day.

Tickets can be booked in person on the day itself from our reception at Palace Green Library or online on the following page: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/durham-castle-museum-and-tours-33796687285