Durham Castle

Durham Castle, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside Durham Cathedral, is a living monument that combines Norman military architecture with centuries of adaptation. Built shortly after the Norman Conquest, the castle was a stronghold for William the Conqueror’s forces and later became the seat of the Prince-Bishops of Durham, who held both secular and ecclesiastical power.

Unlike many castles preserved as ruins, Durham Castle continues to serve a practical role today as part of Durham University, housing students and hosting academic and ceremonial events. Visitors can only access the castle by guided tour, usually led by students who provide unique insights into its past and present.

Inside, the Norman Chapel, with its intricate stone carvings, is one of the oldest surviving Norman chapels in England. The Great Hall, expanded by Bishop Antony Bek in the 13th century, is an imposing space once used for feasts and gatherings, while the Tunstall Chapel, completed in the 16th century, reflects late Gothic elegance.

Facilities include a visitor reception, guided tours, and proximity to Durham city’s cafés and shops. Exhibitions highlight the Prince-Bishops’ unusual authority, the castle’s architecture, and its transition to a university residence.

Image credit: Tim Green