Medieval Castles: Durham Castle
1072 AD
Open to Visitors

Durham Castle is a Norman castle in the city of Durham, England, which follows the usual motte and bailey design favoured by the Normans.

The construction of Durham Castle began in 1072 under the orders of William the Conqueror. The stone used for the new buildings was cut from the cliffs below the walls and moved up using winches.

The castle was the seat of the holder of the office of the Bishop of Durham, appointed by the King to exercise royal authority on his behalf. In May 1080, it was attacked and besieged for four days by rebels from Northumbria, and in 1177, King Henry II of England seized the castle.

The castle has a large Great Hall created by Bishop Antony Bek in the early 14th century. Today, the Hall is 14 metres (46 ft) high and over 30 metres (98 ft) long.

Durham Castle is jointly designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site with Durham Cathedral.

Visit Durham Castle

Facilities

B&B
Giftshop
Weddings
Restrooms
Paid Carpark Nearby
Cafe & Bar
Accessible
The entrance to Durham Castle, remodelled in the 18th and 19th centuries.
The entrance to Durham Castle, remodelled in the 18th and 19th centuries. Source: Wikimedia Commons.
The original great hall range with later adaptations.
The original great hall range with later adaptations. Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Hours

Only through guided tours. Tours are usually available every day at 1.15 pm, 2.15 pm, 3.15 pm and 4.15 pm. 

Address

Durham DH1 3RW

Phone

0191 334 3800

Prices

Type of TicketAdmission Price
Adults£5.00
Children 5yrs and over£4
Concessions over 60s£4
Family day ticket (2+3)£15
InfantsFree
Durham University Campus Card holdersFree

Location

Durham Castle Gifts

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