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Durham Cathedral is open for private prayer and quiet reflection. See opening times and FAQs here, and watch the video on the right for a quick guide to visiting us.

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If you can, please donate to support Durham Cathedral’s future. You can donate online here, or at the cathedral using a contactless card or one of the cash donation boxes. Thank you. 

 

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What to expect when visiting Durham Cathedral

Home | Durham Cathedral

Welcome to Durham Cathedral, one of the great buildings of Europe.

Set on a rocky promontory next to the Castle, with the medieval city huddled below and the river sweeping round, the profile of the World Heritage Site is instantly recognisable to travellers on the East Coast railway line.

Why does it exist?

The Community of Cuthbert arrived in Durham from Lindisfarne in 995 and built an Anglo-Saxon cathedral.

In 1083 a community of Benedictine monks was established in Durham following the Norman Conquest.

Construction of the Cathedral as we know it today was started in 1093 by Bishop William of St Calais.
                

 

Our role

Durham Cathedral is a Christian Church of the Anglican Communion and the seat of the Bishop of Durham.

We are a place of worship, welcome and hospitality.

Following the example of Saints Cuthbert and Bede, we share our faith and heritage globally and empower people to transform the communities in which we live and serve.

Our purpose

Our purpose is to worship God, share the gospel of Jesus Christ, welcome all who come, celebrate and pass on our rich Christian heritage and discover our place in God’s creation.