Durham Castle

Durham Castle – Historic guided tour venue in Durham

Sitting at the heart of Durham’s World Heritage Site, the Castle has been occupied continuously since the 11th century and is now home to the students of University College, Durham University. Built as an imposing Norman fortress and later a lavish palace tied to the powerful Prince Bishops of Durham, its story spans everything from the Norman Conquest to the English Civil War.

The draw: guided tours led by knowledgeable guides through the Norman Chapel, the Black Staircase and the Great Hall, plus occasional self-guided days with audio guides over summer (July to September).

Hours: Visits are by guided tour only, and tours don’t run every day since it’s a working college, so check availability and book ahead (tour times are released a month in advance). Tours last around 50 to 60 minutes.

Vibe check: a genuine must-do alongside Durham Cathedral next door, though note it’s largely inaccessible to wheelchairs and pushchairs due to the historic layout and stairs.