The History of Durham
From the monks who carried St Cuthbert to a bend in the River Wear, through the age of the Prince Bishops and the coalfield era, to a university and World Heritage city today — nearly a thousand years of history.
A Thousand Years at a Glance
The key moments that shaped Durham, from the Community of St Cuthbert to the university and World Heritage city of today.
The Community of St Cuthbert
Monks carrying the body of St Cuthbert settled on the wooded peninsula in a loop of the River Wear, founding the church that would grow into Durham. Cuthbert's shrine has drawn pilgrims ever since.
Durham Castle
After the Norman Conquest, a castle was raised above the river as a stronghold to hold the north of England. It later became the seat of the Prince Bishops of Durham.
The Cathedral Begun
Work began on the present cathedral to house St Cuthbert's shrine. Largely completed within about forty years, it is regarded as one of the finest Norman buildings in Europe and also holds the tomb of the Venerable Bede.
The Prince Bishops
For centuries the Bishops of Durham ruled the County Palatine with near-royal powers — raising armies, holding courts, and minting their own coins — until those powers were finally removed in 1836.
Durham University
Durham University was established, one of the oldest universities in England. In 1837 it took up residence in the castle on Palace Green, where students live to this day.
The Miners' Gala
The first Durham Miners' Gala — the 'Big Meeting' — was held in the city. It grew into one of the great gatherings of the British labour movement and still fills Durham's streets each July.
World Heritage Site
Durham Castle and Cathedral were together inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognising their outstanding Norman architecture and the setting above the Wear.
A University & Visitor City
With a built-up-area population of around 50,500 (2021 Census), Durham is the county town of County Durham — a collegiate university city and a major visitor destination on the East Coast Main Line.
Heritage Articles
In-depth stories about the people, buildings, and events that shaped Durham.
Kynren: A Visitor's Guide to England's Epic Live Show
A short drive from Durham, Kynren tells 2,000 years of English history in a 90-minute open-air spectacle. Our guide to the show, the new daytime park, tickets, timings and how to get there.
Beamish Museum: A Visitor's Guide
Just north of Durham, Beamish is one of the North East's great days out. Our guide to the living museum's period streets, vintage trams, the year-long ticket, and how to get there.
The Durham Miners' Gala: A Guide to the Big Meeting
On the second Saturday of every July, Durham gives itself over to the Big Meeting. Our guide to the Durham Miners' Gala, its banners and brass bands, the cathedral service and its history.
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.
Durham Cathedral: A Visitor's Guide
How to visit one of the finest Norman cathedrals in Europe, from the shrine of St Cuthbert and the tomb of Bede to the tower climb and the Sanctuary Knocker.
Durham Castle: A Visitor's Guide
How to visit the Norman castle on Palace Green, once home to the Prince Bishops and now a Durham University college, open to the public by guided tour.
The Prince Bishops of Durham
For centuries the Bishops of Durham ruled the County Palatine with near-royal powers, raising armies, holding courts and minting their own coins. Here is their story.
The Story of St Cuthbert and How Durham Began
Durham owes its existence to a saint. The story of St Cuthbert, the monks who carried his body, and the legend of the Dun Cow that founded the city.
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.
Durham on Screen: Film and TV Locations
From Hogwarts to Asgard, Durham Cathedral has doubled for some of cinema's grandest settings. A guide to the film and TV made in the World Heritage city.
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.