Christmas Time at Durham Castle: Self Guided Visit

Join us for a unique visit to Durham Castle for the whole family to celebrate the festive season. ABOUT THE DAY: Step back in time and explore the Castle at this magical time of year. Enjoy a self-guided tour around the castle and explore its beautiful surroundings, then stop in our Great Hall, where you will soak in its festive atmosphere with the Christmas tree lit up and seasonal music in the air. Stay a bit longer to enjoy seasonal refreshments (mince pies, mulled wine, hot chocolate, tea and coffe), available to buy onsite. Our friendly guides and volunteers will be around the castle to answer your questions and share some of the stories and hidden history of the Castle. Enjoy children activities, seasonal crafts and dressing up, and for our youngest visitors, don’t forget to pick up our Robin the Reindeer trail at reception to spot all the reindeer hiding around the building! A bit of history... Durham Castle is one of Northern England's most significant historic buildings, designated a World Heritage Site in 1986. On your visit you will find out about the early days of the Castle, built in the 1070s as a Norman fortress by William the Conqueror, and learn about the powerful Prince-Bishops of Durham, whose seat of power was based for hundreds of years at Durham Castle. You will also discover how the building became the first college of Durham University in Victorian times and how today it is the home of University College students, who live and learn in Durham Castle. PRACTICAL INFORMATION: • Entry to the Castle is from 11am to 3.15pm. The Castle will close at 4pm. • Your ticket will allow entry to the Castle at any time during this timeframe. Please make sure you give yourself plenty of time before the closing time. • Please check in and collect a wristband from Palace Green Library (next door to the castle entrance) before entering Durham Castle. About your visit: • 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. 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. For a full access statement to the venue, please visit our FAQs at the bottom of this page. • All children must be accompanied by an adult. • Please consult our FAQs for more information - if you have any other question not covered on this page, please call us at 0191 334 2932 or email us at [email protected].