What are you interested in?

Browse our event listings instead

The Durham Light Infantry (DLI) chapel commemorates the service and sacrifice of the local soldiers.

The DLI Chapel is a place of peace, respect, and gratitude. At the end of the First World War (1914-18), thoughts soon turned to memorialising those who had died. As a long standing focal point for County Durham’s religious and community life, it was only natural that the Cathedral would become a place of remembrance.

Where is this space?

The DLI Chapel is located in the South Transept, to the left of Prior’s Clock.

How is it used today?

We use this space today to remember all those affected by war and to pray for those who keep the peace.

History

The DLI Chapel in the medieval monastery

This area was originally known as the Our Lady of Bolton chapel.

Changes over the past 500 years

  • While the County War Memorial would eventually be placed in the Cathedral grounds (outside the east end of the building), in 1921 it was proposed by Colonel Bowes that a Chapel dedicated to the local regiment, the Durham Light Infantry (DLI) be created.
  • Designed by W.D. Caroe and built by Cornish & Gaymer, the DLI Chapel replaced two existing pre-Reformation Lady Chapels dedicated to Our Lady of Bolton and Our Lady of Houghall. The Cathedral paid £250 (about £800 today) towards building costs, while the rest of the money was raised from Regimental Funds, the leftover County Prisoner of War Parcels Fund and public subscriptions.
  • The completed Chapel was dedicated on October 20th 1923 by Bishop of Durham Herbert Hensley Henson. The service was attended by various DLI representatives and 400 DLI soldiers, with seats reserved for the next of kin of those who had died during the war. The Dean of Durham, James Welldon, said he hoped that the Chapel would ensure ‘that the visitors to the Cathedral will for all time be reminded of their sacrifice.’

Accessibility

Wheelchair users and visitors with limited mobility

The DLI Chapel is not accessible without the use of stairs.

Visitors with a hearing impairment

An induction loop is not available in this area.

Neurodiverse visitors

This area is quietest outside of peak visiting hours. As the DLI Chapel is close to the Cathedral Tower entrance, it can sometimes be a loud area.

Blind and partially sighted visitors

Lighting in this area can be low depending on the time of day and year.

Follow the guided tour

You’re in: The DLI Chapel Next stop: Apprentice Pillar

  • Walk down the steps and out of the Chapel
  • Turn to your left and walk towards the clock
  • Take a look at the last pillar on your left. This is the Apprentice Pillar