Unguided Cathedral visit

This group package includes a self-guide leaflet available in a variety of languages for an unguided free-flow visit.

Cathedral guided tour

Our knowledgeable, friendly guides will show you around the Cathedral, pointing out hidden gems and fascinating stories about this magnificent building. Cathedral tours last one hour.

Durham Cathedral Museum

Be sure to include a visit to our state-of-the-art exhibition. Marvel at the spectacular 14th century Monks’ Dormitory and magnificent Great Kitchen housing the unique Treasures of St Cuthbert. Visits to Durham Cathedral Musuem are guided and last approximately one hour.

Bespoke tours

Tours and talks are also available on special interest subjects.  These can include behind the scenes tours or special viewings for an additional supplement.  

• Northern Saints
• Pilgrimage Tour
• Stained Glass Windows
• Embroidery and Textiles
• Architecture
• Antiquarian and Early Printed Books of the Cathedral Library
• History of Cathedral Music
• Decorative Art in the Cathedral
• The Art of the Woodcarver

The Chapter House

See where the monks transacted daily business including reading a ‘chapter’ of the monastic rule. For Harry Potter fans, the Chapter House was used as Professor McGonagall’s classroom together with the Cloister in the first two films. 

Not usually open to the public, subject to availability and additional charges apply.  

Tower tours

Climb the tower to view this UNESCO World Heritage Site and Durham City from above. See the roof, masonry and exterior of the Central Tower up close.

Subject to availability, restrictions and additional charges apply.    

Evening tours

For a unique experience, after-hours evening tours can be arranged once the Cathedral is closed to the public.

Packages can be created to include a private reception and evening dinner in the vaulted Undercroft Restaurant, with menus to suit accompanied by a range of wines and Durham Brewery beers.

Subject to availability and additional charges apply.  

Private organ recital

Add a special touch to your visit with a private organ recital, with visitors seated in the 17th century carved wooden choir stalls in the Quire, the heart of the Church.

Subject to availability and additional charges apply.  

Worship and private chapel service

Private prayer and reflection can be included as part of your visit in the 13th century vaulted Chapel of the Holy Cross, a tranquil chapel underneath the Deanery.

Subject to availability and additional charges apply.   

Groups are always to welcome to join in any of our regular services.

How to book

We are a working Cathedral. So you can get the most from your visit, please pre-book so we can advise of services or events that might be taking place.

Please complete and return a booking request form either online or by downloadable form.

• Booking request for group visits (Word)
•  
• Download our Group Visit leaflet (PDF) to share with your group.

Bookings are all subject to availability and are not secured until confirmed by Durham Cathedral.

For further information or to discuss your booking please email visits@durhamcathedral.co.uk 

Payment

You will need to pay on arrival at the Visitor Desk inside the Cathedral. This needs to be one payment for the whole group by cash, debit/credit card or cheque (made payable to Durham Cathedral). You can pay by invoice if arranged in advance. Minimum numbers or charges apply.

Accessibility

Most of the Cathedral is accessible, however as an historic building there are some uneven floors and certain areas are limited. Durham Cathedral Musuem is fully accessible. Wheelchairs are available on request and assistance dogs are welcome.

If you need any extra help or advice please let us know in advance. You might also wish to look at our Accessibility page.

Getting here

Durham is west of the A1(M) and east of the A167 in North East England. Durham’s narrow streets mean there is restricted vehicular access to the Cathedral with no coaches and no parking. Free coach parking is available at the City Centre Coach Park (postcode DH1 1SQ).

Durham County Council provides a public shuttle bus service from the Coach Park and the Market Place to the Cathedral. An all-day ticket can be bought on board. There are more details on our Getting here page, including maps.

A region of delights

We are proud to be part of Discover Durham, promoting the city, countryside and coast of Durham as an exciting group travel destination. Please take a look at our Other Durham highlights page for more details.

Taking photos during your visit

We encourage visitors to take respectful non-flash photos inside and outside Durham Cathedral. Photos cannot be taken in Durham Cathedral Musuem or in areas reserved for private worship. See our photography page for more information.

There are also many postcards, prints and books available to buy in the Cathedral Shop.

Have more questions?

We would be happy to discuss your requirements further to arrange a visit to suit your group. Please contact visits@durhamcathedral.co.uk.