Key facts
- Operator
- University College, Durham University
- Condition
- Intact
- Access
- Limited tour days
- Stays
- Overnight accommodation available
Pinpoint
A Norman castle turned university college - Durham Castle has housed students of University College since 1837, and today it's part of the Durham Cathedral and Castle UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visits are guided-tour-only, and because students still live there, you see a smaller slice of the building than the exterior suggests.
Worth the trip
The guided tour itself - reviewers consistently call the guides funny and knowledgeable, turning what could be a limited visit into a genuine highlight.
Before you go
You can't visit independently - book a guided tour ahead, and be aware tour times are limited and access to student-occupied areas is restricted.
Several reviewers enjoyed the guided tour of Durham Castle and found the guides knowledgeable, but a recurring theme is disappointment that only a small portion of the castle is open to visitors since much of it is used as student housing, and that tours are short at around 45 minutes. Visitors are reminded that entry is only possible via a booked tour, not free exploration.
Guided tours; B&B during university vacations
“Stunning place, world class, fascinating and almost addictively good. Wonderful tour guides, great value. Creat many memories here. Thoroughly recommended.”— Tad Baranski, visitor review
