Guided Tours of the Castle

Durham Castle, together with the Cathedral, was awarded the status of a World Heritage Site in 1986 providing international recognition for this unique, historic and scenic site.  Standing side by side on a prominent hill top site and encircled by the wooded slopes of the meandering River Wear, the Castle overlooks the medieval City of Durham with its fascinating narrow streets. 

Durham Castle is a registered museum as well as a vibrant living and working community.  It is the home of University College, the founding College of Durham University and over 100 students are resident during term.  In view of this, entrance to the public is by guided tour only.  The following tour times are a general guide as it is sometimes necessary to cancel tours at short notice due to University or commercial activities.

Tours during University Terms

Tours are normally available every afternoon of the week at 14:00, 15:00 and 16:00.  For full details of term dates go to www.dur.ac.uk/dates  

Tours during University vacations

Tours are normally available every morning of the week at 10:00, 11.00 and 12:00, and in the afternoons when three are no commercial activities, from 14:00 to 17:00.  Please note that we are closed for the festive season from late December till 03 January each year. 

For daily information on guided tour times, please contact the Porters Lodge on 0191 334 3800. 

Accessibility

The nature and layout of the Castle, means that all of the Castle interior is inaccessible to wheelchair users; the tour route involves many steps and staircases, some of which are uneven. The Castle can be viewed from the Courtyard. 

Tour Prices

Adult £5
Concessions: (Senior Citizens, Students, Children up to 16) £3.50
Family Ticket £12
Group Rates: (for 10+) Adults £4.50; Child/Senior Citizen £3.00