Durham Castle - Guided Tours

Why not take a tour around one Durham's most significant historic buildings. Built on the orders of William the Conqueror in the 1070s. Durham Castle began life as a motte-and-bailey castle. It soon became a palace to showcase the wealth of the Prince-Bishops whose semi-regal powers made them one of the most powerful political and military men in the country.

Our knowledgeable and friendly tour guides will take you through the gatehouse and into the heart of the historic building. Here you will experience history and tales from 900 years of living history. Find out about the Prince-Bishops whose seat of power was based here for hundreds of years at Durham Castle. Learn how the building became the first college of Durham University and how today it is the home of University College students who live and learn in Durham Castle.

Please collect a lanyard from Palace Green Library (in between the Castle and Cathedral) prior to the tour start time.

The meeting point for the tour is at Palace Green Library reception.

More tickets are available and can be purchased from Palace Green Library, we currently also have other tour times available via desk purchase only. Please contact by telephone on +44 (0)191 334 2932 or email castle.tours@durham.ac.uk to check availability.

Due to the residential nature of the building entrance is by guided tour only. Tours last approx. 45-50 minutes. The following tour times are a general guide as it is sometimes necessary to cancel tours at short notice due to University or commercial activities.

The historic nature and layout of the Castle means that the majority of the building is inaccessible to wheelchair users. The tour route involves many steps and staircases, some of which are uneven.

All children must be accompanied by an adult.

About your visit

• Please arrive on time for your tour - unfortunately we won't be able to accommodate arrivals outside of the chosen tour start time. The time you have booked is the start time of your tour
• Please be aware that part of the tour is outside
• Accessibility within the Castle is limited due to access to areas via steps only. Any visitors with accessibility needs please contact 0191 334 2932 to discuss and see further information below.
• Guide and assistance dogs are welcome, family pets are not permitted to be part of the tours. A water bowl can be provided on request.

Accessibility

We welcome all visitors to Durham Castle, a UNESCO world heritage site. We aim to make everyone's day successful and enjoyable and are committed to improving access and facilities for visitors with disabilities.

The Castle is an historic building with difficult stairs and passageways with access limited to upper floors. There are large numerous steps throughout the Castle with cobbles laid in some of the surfaces and pathways. There are low doorways throughout many with stepped up/down access.

The Castle is located on the Peninsula of Durham City. The following statement is a realistic assessment of the accessibility to our premises, for all our guests and visitors. It would be fair at this point to state that the Castle has very limited provision for visitors with mobility issues due to the age and original design of the building.

The pavements are a mix of flagstone and brick with standard kerbs. The route is relatively flat, with usual slip and trip hazards.

There is limited car parking on the Peninsula and no parking within the Castle courtyard. The front of the Castle and path are well illuminated during hours of darkness.

Due to the unusual layout of the various stone staircases, multiple stairs can be found both externally and internally. The stone stairs have worn treads and uneven surfaces. Timber staircases are narrow and are slightly awkward and care is needed! There are no lifts in the Castle.

There is not an easily accessible public or staff WC. There are no additional handles or accessories for persons with mobility issues.

There is a large garden at the rear of the building. This is accessed via brick steps from the Courtyard. Unfortunately, there is no easy access for persons with restricted mobility.