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Magna Carta and the North at Durham Cathedral

In July 2025, Durham Cathedral will be displaying its three rare Magna Cartas for the first time in eight years, recognising the 800th anniversary of the 1225 issue in our collection.

From 11 July to 2 November 2025, see the only surviving 1216 Magna Carta, along with issues from 1225 and 1300, and three Forest Charters in Durham Cathedral Museum.

The rare documents will be on display as part of a new exhibition, Magna Carta and the North, alongside temporary artworks and installations throughout the cathedral that will tell the story of these 800-year-old documents which are still a powerful symbol of social justice in the world today.

What is Magna Carta?

Magna Carta, the ‘Great Charter’, has been described as the most famous document in English history and a cornerstone of modern democracy. First issued in 1215, it was the first document that put into writing that the king and his government were not above the law, in order to prevent the king from exploiting his power. With three clauses from the 1225 Magna Carta still in force today, the document remains a cornerstone of British democracy.

Alison Cullingford, Head of Libraries and Collections at Durham Cathedral shares her thoughts on the newly announced exhibition:

“We care for an extensive medieval archive here at Durham Cathedral and the Magna Cartas and Forest Charters are some of the most remarkable documents within it. Due to their fragile nature and historical importance, these documents are rarely seen by the general public so we’re very excited to announce that they will be on display once again for the world to see.”

Alison Cullingford in Cloisters

Alison Cullingford

Head of Libraries and Collections

Why does Durham Cathedral have three Magna Cartas?

Durham Cathedral holds an extensive medieval archive, and although the monastery was dissolved in 1539 the cathedral continued, meaning most of the archive survived. 

The Magna Carta and the Charter of the Forest were distributed to sheriffs and bishops, to be read out in public so new laws could be spread among the people. As Durham was a County Palatine, meaning the Bishop could exercise royal powers outside the authority of the crown, the archivists here were very aware of English laws and encouraged good record keeping. 

Many cathedrals just kept the most recent version of Charters and disposed of earlier, outdated issues, but at Durham they were carefully stored away for future reference. 

When were the Magna Cartas and Charters of the Forest last on display?

The items are rarely on display to help preserve them for future generations to see, they were last on display in the summer of 2017 when almost 19,000 people came to see them over an 11-week period. In 2025, from 11 July to 2 November, you will be able to get up close once again to the documents in Durham Cathedral's archives.

What else is on display for Magna Carta and the North?

To celebrate the anniversary and the display of these rare surviving documents, the cathedral is also planning to host temporary installations and community-focused artworks throughout the cathedral that will tell the story of these 800-year-old documents. For centuries, Magna Carta has inspired and encouraged freedom movements around the world, so taking inspiration from the themes of freedom and social justice, the cathedral team is looking at ways to tell the story of the Magna Cartas through art, light and sound around the cathedral.

Further details will continue to be announced around this exciting programme so keep checking back for details.

FAQ's

Which Magna Cartas will I get to see?

You will be able to see the only surviving 1216 document, the 1225 issue and 1300 issue. 

When can I see the Magna Carta?

You can get up close to the documents from Friday 11 July to Sunday 2 November 2025.

See event information here

How do I see the documents?

You can see the Magna Cartas and Forest Charters in Durham Cathedral Museum. Tickets will go on sale in early 2025.

Do I have to pay to see them?

Entry to Durham Cathedral Museum is £7.50 for adults and free for under 18s and essential companions. 

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Our Collections

Read more about the three Magna Cartas and three Charters of the Forest in our treasures and collections. 

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Durham Cathedral Museum

Set within the spaces of the medieval monastery of Durham, explore fascinating stories and ancient relics in Durham Cathedral Museum. Get up close to St Cuthbert's cross and coffin, and the original Sanctuary Ring. Durham Cathedral Museum is open daily where you can explore the Monks' Dormitory, Great Kitchen and current exhibitions gallery display, 'Daughters of God: Women at Durham Cathedral'. 

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