Projects funded by the Friends of Durham Cathedral
Cuthbert Centre for Pilgrimage and Prayer
The Friends have funded the renovations of the new Cuthbert Centre for Pilgrimage and Prayer, which will be based in the Chapel of the Holy Cross, located in the Deanery.
The space will be used to offer hospitality to individuals and groups (particularly those arriving as part of a pilgrimage) and facilitating activities to inspire, resource and equip pilgrims across the region and beyond.
Renovation work started in Autumn 2025 and the Works Yard team have removed internal walls and lifted the historic terracotta tiles to prepare for a new underfloor heating system. The cathedral's resident archaeologist has documented the findings of the floor makeup, to ensure the renovation preserves the heritage of the space.
A new floor will be laid, and then the Works Yard team will finish the project by plastering and painting the space, alongside installing a new kitchen area and toilet facilities. Bespoke furniture, made by the team of cathedral Joiners, will be added and a ramp so the location is easily accessible. The space is due to open in Autumn 2026.
South Transept Stone Cross Project
In 2021, the Friends funded a new South Transept stone cross handcrafted by Durham Cathedral’s stonemason Peter Crinnion. The inspiration derived from the cross in the Galilee Chapel at the cathedral, replacing the previous cross, which was badly eroded due to weather damage.
Restoration of Plaque listing Bishops, Priors and Deans
Capturing 1000 years of history, there was minimal space remaining on the Bishops, Priors and Dean’s Plaque located on the south wall of the Feretory. With the Friends support, an additional marble plaque was added to allow more inscriptions of future names and dates. The names of the masons who carved the plaque over 100 years ago were revealed in the process. It is expected it will be another 200 years before additional space will be needed.
Conservation of North and South Doors
The Friends have most recently funded the conservation of the North and South Doors, which involved the cleaning of the wood and ironwork and the removal of previous wax coatings. It is estimated that the ironwork dates back to the time of Bishop Hugh of Le Puiset (1153-95), around the same time that the Sanctuary Ring was added to the North Door. Old paint layers on the metal are being examined to discover how early a date the materials may indicate.
Ongoing support
The Friends provide annual grants to the library, the Broderers and education work. The Friends support the conservation of riverbanks and woodlands around the cathedral. The charity are supporters of music in the Cathedral and have provided a Chorister bursary for many years.
Member benefits
Becoming a Friend of Durham Cathedral combines a shared passion of heritage with community spirit. Activities for members include:
- 10% discount in Cathedral shop and restaurant
- 25% discount on entry to the Durham Cathedral Museum
- One free trip to the top of the Tower (over - 8 yrs only)
- Annual new members’ tour of the Cathedral, followed by refreshments in Prior’s Hall
- Regular emailed newsletter including invitations to Friends’ excursions and events plus the annual Friends’ Festival
- Voting rights at the AGM plus a printed copy of the Friends’ Annual Report
- Free access to both in-person and online Friends’ Lecture Series events (open to all with a small charge for non-members)
- Priority booking for some Cathedral services and events
Membership costs
- Junior Friends (Under 8) - £5 per annum
- Students/Others Still In Full-Time Education - £10 per annum
- Individual Friends - £24 per annum
- Joint Friends (at same address) - £36 per annum
- Individual Life Membership - £300
- Joint Life Membership - £500
Become a Friend of Durham Cathedral
Click the link below to view the Friends of Durham Cathedral website for more information and how to become a member.