Family Favourites at Advent and Christmas

Bring the whole family to Durham Cathedral in this festive period, with family-friendly services and activities.

Make a special annual tradition with a visit to the cathedral this Christmas.

There's plenty on offer to get the whole family in the festive spirit, from family-friendly services, a free activity leaflet all about the Christmas story and Durham Cathedral in LEGO® decorated for the festive season. 

Watch a glimpse of the service here. 

Blessing of the Crib and Lighting of the Tree

Sunday 13 December, 3.30pm

Join us for this festive service, where the cathedral's giant Christmas tree is lit and the unique North-East inspired nativity scene is blessed.

You can sing traditional hymns and there is the opportunity for those who are able to donate unwrapped presents under the tree, which are distributed by The Salvation Army.

Family Friendly Activities

Pick up a free Advent and Christmas activity leaflet from the visitor desk, and get stuck in with puzzles and crafts to learn more about the Christmas story.

See the Cloisters full of Christmas trees for the Durham Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival. 

Head up to the Museum to see Durham Cathedral in LEGO® decorated for Christmas.

Wander around the Cloisters and Chapter House and create wizarding magic in these well-known Harry Potter filming locations

Take a moment and light a candle, inside the cathedral

Grab a hot chocolate from the Undercroft Cafe, to either sit in or head for a winter walk around the riverbanks

From Sunday 13 December, see the giant Christmas tree and get up close to the nativity scene and see if you can spot any North-East inspired characters