Palace Green Library

About Palace Green Library

Palace Green Library stands on the green between the cathedral and the castle, at the historic heart of the Durham peninsula. Part of Durham University, it houses the University Archives and Special Collections along with resources for local history, music and law, and it holds important early printed books and manuscripts within its historic reading rooms.

For visitors, the main draw is its programme of free public exhibitions and galleries, which draw on the university's collections and touring shows to explore art, history and regional heritage. With its setting among the World Heritage Site buildings, the library is an easy and rewarding stop for anyone exploring the old city, and it also supports research visits and learning activities throughout the year.

Featured in These Guides

Blog posts and guides that feature Palace Green Library.

Christmas Markets in Durham

Durham Christmas Festival runs from 4 to 6 December 2026 across Palace Green, the Cathedral Cloisters, the Market Hall and the Market Place, with a ticketed craft marquee of over 180 stalls and a lantern parade on the Sunday.

Family Activities in Durham: Days Out with the Kids

A roundup of the best family days out in Durham, from riverside walks and rowing boats to museums, soft play and big attractions just outside the city.

A Rainy Day in Durham: Indoor Things to Do

When the weather closes in, Durham has plenty to keep everyone happy indoors, from the cathedral and museums to soft play, a bouldering wall and a cinema in the heart of the city.

Free Things to Do in Durham

Durham is one of England's most rewarding cities to enjoy on no budget at all, from the free-to-enter cathedral to riverside walks, the market and city-skyline views from Wharton Park.

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.

Walking the Durham World Heritage Site: A Self-Guided Route

A short circular walk around Durham's peninsula, taking in the cathedral and castle, Palace Green, Prebends Bridge and the wooded riverbanks of the Wear.

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.