News

New brochure showcases Durham University attractions

(30 July 2008)

A new brochure showcasing the wealth of public attractions at Durham University proves that university is about much more than just educating students.

The brochure collectively showcases, for the first time, attractions such as Durham Castle, the Oriental Museum and the Botanic Garden, and public events including lectures, theatre and music. The University is aiming to give wider publicity to these attractions as many members of the public, including Durham residents and tourists, are almost entirely unaware of the range of treasures on their doorstep. Some attractions are the finest examples of their kind in the North East, such as the impressive rare book collection of the University Library on Palace Green which includes over 75,000 books printed before 1850. Durham is also the only University in the world to be based on a World Heritage Site, owning, living in and working in some of the city’s most historic buildings. Vice Chancellor of Durham University, Professor Chris Higgins said: “Durham University has a wealth of wonderful treasures which it shares with the public but many of them have often remained a well-kept secret. “This leaflet brings together some of Durham University’s most prized collections, as well as dynamic cultural events, that allow the local community and visitors to share in all that the University has to offer.” University attractions included in the leaflet include: Durham Castle and Palace Green: One of Durham’s most famous landmarks, the striking Norman fortress is the oldest building in the UK used to accommodate students. The 18-acre Botanic Garden: Highlights include the giant water lily, one of only a handful in the North of England, as well as an impressive collection of world flora and creepy-crawlies. Palace Green Library: Houses the Sudan Archive, Durham Cathedral Archives, and over 100 medieval manuscripts. Oriental Museum: Home to a remarkable collection, of international renown, covering the entire range of human history in the civilisations of Asia, Egypt, Islamic North Africa, and the Near and Mid-East. Old Fulling Mill, Museum of Archaeology: A collection of archaeological finds showcasing the vibrant history of the region, including prehistoric, ancient Greek, Roman and Anglo-Saxon artefacts. The brochure also outlines a range of University activities including student-led drama and music, and public concerts and lectures, to which members of the public are welcomed. The Institute of Advanced Study (IAS), Durham University’s flagship research institute, was launched in 2006 to reaffirm the value of ideas and the public role of universities. It holds regular lectures on a range of topics which are free and open to all. The arts at Durham University are also open to the public, with frequent performances by Durham Student Theatre (DST) ranging from opera to comedy, and a full calendar of musical recitals and concerts. Musicon is the University’s Public Concert series, which promotes 12 concerts annually by internationally-acclaimed musicians. Families and educational visits are welcomed at Durham University’s public attractions, with an array of children’s events on offer throughout the summer and beyond. Please refer to the Durham University What’s On website for details. Kate James, Events Coordinator at Durham City Vision, said: “Durham continues to build a reputation as a city that hosts world class events. “Durham City Vision’s ambition is to regenerate the city centre, physically, economically and culturally and these events are going a long way to support that ambition. “This new brochure will certainly help us to get our message out to a wider audience and we hope that even more people will be enjoying events in the City in the future”. Members of the public (or journalists) seeking a copy of the brochure should contact Karen Frost, Cultural Marketing Officer: 0191 334 6071; k.l.frost@durham.ac.uk.

• www.durham.ac.uk/whatson