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Ushaw Historic House, Chapels & Gardens

Former Catholic seminary just outside Durham city with chapels, a cafe and around 30 acres of parkland, gardens and woodland restored largely by volunteers.

About Ushaw Historic House, Chapels & Gardens

Ushaw is a historic former seminary at Ushaw Moor, a short drive west of Durham city, with notable chapels, a cafe and around 30 acres of parkland, gardens and woodland. Its house, chapels and gardens open daily to visitors; check the website for current times and any event closures.

Since 2017 volunteers have been bringing Ushaw's derelict gardens back to life, and the gardens were shortlisted for the Historic Houses Garden of the Year Award in 2024. Ushaw offers volunteering roles that include tending the formal gardens, welcoming guests and stewarding events.

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