What is the Cuthbert Centre for Pilgrimage and Prayer?
Our vision for the Cuthbert Centre for Pilgrimage and Prayer (CCPP) is inspired by the life of St Cuthbert, who prayed at the monasteries of Melrose and Lindisfarne and proclaimed 'Good News' on the road. Once launched, the CCPP will be reminiscent of a Pilgrims' House of Prayer, offering hospitality to individuals and groups (particularly those arriving as part of a pilgrimage) and facilitating activities to inspire, resource and equip pilgrimage across the region and beyond.
The CCPP will be based in the Chapel of the Holy Cross, located under the Cathedral Deanery. Alongside the Chapel, there will be comfortable surroundings for people to gather in and reflect on their pilgrimage, with a hot drink to hand.
Where is the centre located?
The Cuthbert Centre for Pilgrimage and Prayer will be based in the Chapel of the Holy Cross, located underneath the Deanery.
When can I visit?
We are hoping for the Centre to be completed by Spring 2026. Our Works Yard team are busy renovating the space.
How to get involved?
If you'd like more information or would like to organise a group pilgrimage with a visit to the new centre, you can get in touch with Revd James Shelton, Director of Cuthbert Centre for Pilgrimage and Prayer.
Current renovation work: month by month
Opening up the space: October to December 2025
In the area alongside the Chapel of the Holy Cross, the transformation process is well underway, thanks to the efforts of the Works Yard team.
The team removed internal walls to open up the space, creating a more practical and flexible layout for visitors.
During this process, beautiful original timber beams were discovered within the ceiling void. These will be restored and showcased as a key feature of the room - so don't forget to look up when the Centre is open this Spring!
Making things energy efficient: January to March 2026
The Works Yard team have lifted the historic terracotta tiles in the Chapel of the Holy Cross in preparation for a new underfloor heating system, which will help the environmental stability of the Chapel. Over 30 tonnes of rubble has been removed!
Our resident archaeologist, Norman, carried out investigations to understand the floor makeup and ensure anything of historical significance was documented, to ensure the renovation work respected and preserved the heritage of the Chapel.
Continuing the work
After the floor has been laid, the team will be working on the finishing touches, including plastering and painting the space, a new kitchen area and toilet facilities. The Joiners are busy designing and creating bespoke furniture for the spaces, along with a kitchenette.
A ramp will be installed to ensure that all visitors are easily able to gain access to the Chapel of the Holy Cross and the new Cuthbert Centre facilities.
We look forward to welcoming pilgrims, visitors and the wider community to see and experience this new addition in the life of Durham Cathedral and we thank Friends of Durham Cathedral for their support in funding this project.
A Prayer for the Cuthbert Centre
God; Father, Son and Holy Spirit,
we give thanks for the many lives transformed by an encounter with you whilst on pilgrimage.
Give us the wisdom to draw on your ancient ways in our lives today
and bless The Cuthbert Centre for Pilgrimage and Prayer;
that it would witness to St. Cuthbert’s life of prayer and proclamation
and, in doing so, be a source of great blessing for many people today.
Amen.
