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Durham Cathedral Institute

Launched in 2022, the Institute brings the public square to Durham Cathedral, hosting discussion of vital political, social, ethical, and spiritual issues, with and for the people of the North East.

A living tradition

Durham has always been a place of intellectual enquiry - up to and beyond the decisive role of Bishop William van Mildert in founding Durham University in 1832. The Institute builds upon centuries of learning, deep and generous listening, and collective discernment.

We are keen to hear from residents, school groups, business leaders, students, and anyone with a stake in the future flourishing of justice and the common good in the North East of England.

Upcoming events

The Institute's autumn programme concluded in November. Check back to this webpage for information about upcoming events in 2025.

Support the Institute

It would not be possible to deliver Institute events without donations and sponsorship.

The Cathedral is grateful for the support of Hotel Indigo, a boutique hotel located in Durham's Old Shire Hall, home of the County Council from 1898 to 1963. Distinguished by its own striking architectural features, including stained glass, Hotel Indigo has 83 modern bedrooms, decorated to celebrate local landmarks, including the Cathedral.

'We are grateful for our partnership with Durham Cathedral. It is very easy to celebrate one of the UK’s most iconic buildings - our guests are continuously leaving their time in Durham astounded by the city’s beauty and the experience they have had discovering its history, architecture and splendour.' - Tom Orange, General Manager, Hotel Indigo

If, like us, you are passionate about bringing the UK's national conversation to the North East and you would like to support the Institute, we would love to hear from you. Get in touch with the Development Team here.

Past Institute Events

Mining World Heritage: What Makes Us Who We Are?

Thursday 7 November 2024, 6pm

What is the significance of Durham's industrial heritage in the 21st century? As the world seeks to 'go green', how should we commemorate Durham's identity as a region synonymous with the mining of coal? And, in a post-industrial age, how may we answer the question: what makes us who we are?

Durham Cathedral Institute hosted this lecture of Durham's UNESCO World Heritage Site in partnership with the Institute of Medieval and Early Modern Studies (IMEMS) at Durham University. Hear from Ross Forbes (keynote speaker) is Chief Executive of Durham Miners Hall and an honorary professor at University College London. He is also a graduate of Durham University and a proud Durham lad!

Watch the debate

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Prospects for US Politics: An Election-Day Conversation

Tuesday 5 November 2024, 2pm

What is at stake in this year’s US Presidential Election? Why do US politics matter for the UK and the world? Hear from Dr Fiona Hill, Chancellor of Durham University and former advisor to three US presidents, to examine these issues in conversation with The Very Reverend Dr Philip Plyming, Dean of Durham.

Dr Fiona Hill is Chancellor of Durham University, an acclaimed foreign affairs specialist and author, and a former advisor to George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump. She served on the US National Intelligence Council from 2006 to 2009, and was a member of the US National Security Council from 2017 to 2019.

Dr Fiona Hill and Dean at DCI public meeting