University College, or Castle as it is affectionately known, is the oldest college of Durham University, founded in 1832, and located in a Norman fortress. It is a vibrant community of students and staff: undergraduates, from home and abroad (the JCR), postgraduates (the MCR), and members of University staff, visiting Fellows and people from the City and region (the SCR).

Durham Castle is open to the general public to visit, but only through guided tours, since it is a working castle and the home to over 100 students. The Castle is open for tours all afternoons in term time, and all mornings in vacations; very rarely it may not be possible for us to offer a tour. Telephone the Porters' Lodge (0191-334-3800) to enquire about a tour or check the University's what's on website. The Castle is available for wedding receptions, banquets and conferences (telephone Event Durham, 0800-28-99-70), and bed & breakfast accommodation (telephone 0191-33-44-106).

This website provides information on all the facilities and activities within University College and the Castle – do contact us if the information you need is not here.

If you are interested in joining the College as an undergraduate or postgraduate, then see our Prospective Students section. Click on the videoclip immediately below to see something of the College.