Magna Carta and the North - Durham Cathedral

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Tickets are now available to see three iconic Magna Cartas in the Durham Cathedral Museum, from 11 July to 2 November.

Durham Cathedral is fortunate to possess three issues of Magna Carta, including the only surviving 1216 issue and further engrossments from 1225 and 1300, along with three Forest Charters including one of only two surviving 1217 issues, and further issues from 1225 and 1300.

Recognised as being one of the most important documents in history, Magna Carta was first issued in 1215. It established the principle that everyone is subject to the law, even the King himself, and guaranteed the rights of individuals, the right to justice and the right to a fair trial. With three clauses from the 1225 Magna Carta still in force today, the document remains a cornerstone of British democracy.

800 years after the 1225 Magna Carta was issued, this exhibition will feature all six documents, exploring why Durham Cathedral came to have them, what they meant for life in the north of England, and their continuing importance today.

Book your ticket to explore 2000 years of the North East’s history, culture and faith at Durham Cathedral Museum at your own pace. Step into the octagonal Great Kitchen and get up close to iconic symbols of Durham, including the Sanctuary Ring and St Cuthbert’s Pectoral Cross.

From 22 February - 29 June the Museum will be telling the fascinating stories of those who claimed the ancient rite of Sanctuary at the Cathedral alongside the history of our Sanctuary Ring including the mold used to make the replica that now hangs on the North Door of the Cathedral.

From 11 July -  2 November your Museum ticket will give you access to the Magna Carta and the North exhibition, where you will be able to view the Cathedral's three rare copies of Magna Carta, including the only surviving 1216 edition in the world.  

Please book via the Durham Cathedral website.

During the Magna Carta exhibition each Monday between 10-11am will be our Quiet Hour with the louder interactives and displays turned off and increased lighting in the Great Kitchen.

Last entry is 30 minutes before closure.