College Facilities

Porter's Lodge

As much more than providers of the M.C.R. key, the Porters can help you find and access any facility within College. All post for the M.C.R. Exec is handed to the Lodge. Additionally, delivery of parcels here is sometimes easier than to your home address as it is manned 24/7.

The Undercroft Bar

The most ancient student bar in the world is situated beneath the Great Hall and is open in the evenings from 7.30pm. However, on the nights of Formal Dinner, it is open from 6:00pm for the sale of wines.

West Courtyard

Located just behind the Bar, this area contains a pool table, several vending machines and the Toastie Bar. Through a door it extends into the Junior Common Room, which has the day’s newspapers, two televisions, and a games console.

Lowe Library

The College’s Library is located to the left of the entrance to the Great Hall. It provides a spacious, quiet and comfortable working environment, serving as an alternative to the other libraries of the University. Wi-fi is available here, as well as in the courtyard.

Computer Rooms

These can be found at the top of the Hall Stairs (the stairs that ascend from the door to the Lowe Library) and are available to members of the College 24 hours a day.

The Chapels

Within the College there are two chapels: the 11th century Norman Chapel and the 16th century Tunstall Chapel, within which regular services are held. For more information, please ask a member of the M.C.R. Exec or the Chaplain.

Gymnasium

The Gymnasium can be found in Moatside S Block and is available to all members of College. In order to access it, you must take part in a straightforward induction course that explains how to safely use the equipment. To arrange an induction, please contact the gym manager: olivia.stuart-taylor@durham.ac.uk

Laundry

The Laundry is situated in Bailey Court. One load is charged at £1.40 and 50 minutes drying costs £1.00. The Porter can provide both change and directions as to how to find it.

Snooker Table

Opposite the Laundry is Castle's snooker room: the only free full-sized snooker table in Durham. To arrange an induction, (allowing you to borrow the key from the porters) enquire at the lodge as to who the snooker room manger is (a J.C.R. member), and send them an email. To arrange an induction, please contact the snooker room manager: simon.prosser@durham.ac.uk