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Family-friendly adventures

Have a family adventure exploring the cathedral and then let off steam in the woodlands and along the riverbanks.

Experience LIGHT

Bathe in moving, coloured light and choral music as you follow in the footsteps of medieval pilgrims. Enter the Galilee Chapel to see LIGHT, an immersive art installation by artist Chris Levine. 

 

Be an outdoor explorer

Get outside and explore the woodland paths and riverside trails around the cathedral. Take a look at the Woodlands and Riverbanks page for more info.

Hunt out the scallop shells

Pick up a free shell trail at the visitor desk and hunt out the six scallop shells hidden around the cathedral. Along the way, discover what a pilgrimage is and why people make these special journeys.

 

Join a Museum tour

Go behind-the-scenes to hear stories of the cathedral's history. See hidden spaces like the Great Kitchen and the Chapter House, which is famous as a Harry Potter filming location. Book tickets online here

 

Stop to refuel

Grab a bite to eat in the Undercroft Restaurant or bring your own picnic to enjoy in the Monks Garden. Little ones can get some fresh air while the grown ups can relax with a hot drink or a sweet treat.

 

Don't forget to look up...

Take some time and see what you can find when looking up at the roof, the pillars, the font and Prior Castell’s Clock. The most amazing things to see in the cathedral are often up high.

Make a climb up Durham Cathedral's towers the high point of your visit

Climb the central tower or north west tower for the best views over the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Durham City and the surrounding countryside. Admission charges apply. Children must be 8 years+

Read more about climbing the towers