Oriental Museum

About Oriental Museum

The Oriental Museum, run by Durham University, is the only museum in the North East devoted wholly to the art and cultures of Asia and North Africa. Its wide-ranging collections cover ancient Egypt, China, Japan, Korea, the Himalayas, India and the Islamic world, and include ceramics, sculpture, textiles and everyday objects gathered over many decades of teaching and research.

Displayed across several galleries at the university's Elvet Hill site, the museum welcomes families, students and casual visitors, with hands-on activities, changing exhibitions and a busy events programme. It offers a quieter, less crowded counterpoint to the city-centre landmarks and rewards a longer visit for anyone interested in world history and the decorative arts. Admission charges and opening times are published on the university website.

Featured in These Guides

Blog posts and guides that feature Oriental Museum.

Things to Do in Durham

From the World Heritage cathedral and castle to riverside walks, museums and the Victorian market hall, here is our guide to the best things to do in Durham.

A Weekend in Durham

How to spend a perfect two days in Durham, from the World Heritage cathedral and castle to riverside walks, independent restaurants and the Victorian market hall.

Palace Green and Durham's University Museums

The historic green between the cathedral and castle, and the Durham University museums around it, from Palace Green Library to the Oriental Museum.

Durham on a Budget: A Student's Guide

Some of the best things about Durham are free or cheap, from the cathedral and riverside walks to the museums and the market. A student guide to the city on a budget.