Question 1

Can I visit Durham Castle without a guided tour?

Accepted Answer

Since Durham Castle is a working college of Durham University members of the public can only visit the building accompanied by a guide.  Only on very few selected dates throughout the year we allow visits on a self-guided basis and publish them on this website when available.

Question 2

Why I can't see dates available for booking next month?

Accepted Answer

Due to the nature of Durham Castle as a college, our tour times are subject to frequent change - for this reason and to avoid disappointment, we upload them for booking only one month at a time. If you can't see bookings open for next month please simply check back at a later date.

Question 3

Why are some dates in the current month not available for booking?

Accepted Answer

Due to Durham Castle being a college of Durham University we are unable to run tours every day of the year as the building hosts a variety of academic and commercial events. If your selected date in the current month is not available through the calendar, it means tours are not running on that day.

Question 4

What is included in the tour?

Accepted Answer

Please note that with the castle being an active college of Durham University only certain spaces can be open for tours. For more information on the areas you will see on your visit, you can check: https://www.dur.ac.uk/things-to-do/venues/durham-castle/visit/tickets-and-times/whats-on-a-tour/

Question 5

What is your photography policy?

Accepted Answer

Photos can be taken during a tour, both outside and inside the building. We please ask that you don't use a flash as it can damage our artefacts. We also ask that you refrain from taking pictures of students for privacy reasons.

Question 6

Can I request a refund if I don't attend?

Accepted Answer

Refunds will be offered up to midnight of the day before your tour is due. Please note we are unable to offer refunds requested on the day of the tour itself.

Question 7

Do you have a full accessibility statement?

Accepted Answer

The historic nature and layout of the Castle means that unfortunately the majority of the building is not easily accessible by people with limited mobility. A full access statement to the venue can be found here: https://www.dur.ac.uk/things-to-do/venues/durham-castle/visit/access/

Question 8

Can I come on a tour with a pushchair?

Accepted Answer

You are welcome to come along if you have a pushchair, however you will need to leave it on the ground floor of the castle as it will not be allowed on the upper level. Your guide will show you a dedicated area to store it for the duration of the tour.

Question 9

Do you have space to drop luggage?

Accepted Answer

Palace Green Library has lockers that can be used by members of the public, however these cannot hold suitcases or large bags. We will not be able to keep any large bags on site, so please make sure you find alternative solutions before your visit.

Question 10

Where are your toilet facilities?

Accepted Answer

Toilets are available inside the castle and your guide will be happy to direct you to them. There is one toilet equipped for disabled use, although this is accessed via a set of six steps. Additional toilets are located at Palace Green Library, including a fully accessible toilet.

Question 11

Do you have a gift shop?

Accepted Answer

Our gift shop is located inside Palace Green Library, where you will find a small range of gifts, souvenirs and publications inspired by the castle and our exhibitions and collections. Locally sourced gifts, postcards and Durham Castle branded souvenirs are also available.

Question 12

Where can I park if I come by car?

Accepted Answer

Please note that there is no parking available at Durham Castle. The nearest car park, the Prince Bishops Shopping Centre car park, is a 5-10 minute walk. For more information about parking please visit: https://www.dur.ac.uk/things-to-do/venues/durham-castle/visit/getting-here/

Question 13

Can I bring my pet with me on the tour?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately only assistance and therapy pets can be taken along on a tour, family pets are not allowed. A bowl of water for your dog can be requested at the desk at Palace Green Library.

Durham Castle - Guided Tours

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