Our "Grand Designs"

Our Grand Designs

Our "Grand Designs"

Across the county you’ll find an amazing collection of incredible buildings to explore, from ancient castles and impressive museums, to grand Norman and medieval architecture.

Durham City is home to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle, which dominate one of the most stunning city skylines in Europe. With its ancient winding streets, heritage attractions and eclectic mix of shops, bars, pubs and eateries, Durham City is small in size but big on impact, making it the ideal location for groups.

• Lose yourself in the awe-inspiring grandeur of Durham Cathedral’s Romanesque architecture and colourful stained glass windows, before climbing the 325 steps to the top of the Central Tower, where unrivalled views await.

• Visit the tombs of St Cuthbert and the Venerable Bede who lie at rest within the cathedral’s ancient walls.

• Take a tour of Durham Castle and discover the fascinating stories that lie within the ancient walls that are now home to Durham University students.

• Surround yourself in history amidst the Historic Libraries & Archives at Palace Green Library. Founded by Bishop John Cosin in the 17th century, the libraries house some of Durham University’s fascinating collections and host a programme of enthralling exhibitions.

• Expect the unexpected at The Bowes Museum, a triumph of 19th century French architecture in the Durham Dales. The museum was created by John Bowes and his French wife, Josephine, in order to share their passion for beautiful things with the local community.

Did you know...

Durham Cathedral was a filming location for Avengers: Endgame and the first two Harry Potter films. The cathedral’s Cloisters and Chapter House were part of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry!

To request PDF copies of our Group Friendly itineraries please email us.

Internal image of a church


Tour suggestions…

Half day:
Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle
or
The Bowes Museum

Full day:
Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle
plus Durham University’s Palace Green Library
or
Durham Cathedral plus The Bowes Museum


Hotel suggestions…

Delta by Marriott Hotel Durham Royal County
Durham University Accommodation
Radisson Blu Durham


Useful information…

Sat Nav:
Delta by Marriott Hotel Durham Royal County DH1 3JN
Durham City DH1 5TA
(Framwellgate Waterside -
Cathedral bus 40A operates from/to the coach bays)
Durham City Coach Park DH1 1SR
Durham University Accommodation DH1 3LE
Historic Libraries & Archives at Palace Green Library DH1 3RN
Radisson Blu Durham DH1 3LE
The Bowes Museum DL12 8NP