Durham Castle, Durham

History

The present Castle began in 1072 as a simple defensive mound commissioned by William the Conqueror to defend the peninsula formed by the meander in the River Wear. Over the centuries, the Castle has been a residence of the Bishops of Durham who added to the buildings and altered them to suit the needs of the time.

The University of Durham was founded in 1832 by Bishop Van Mildert and the Dean and Chapter of the Cathedral. After Van Mildert's death in 1836, the Castle was handed over to the University and became University College in 1837, the oldest of the Durham Colleges. Early generations of students lived either in University House, now Cosin's Hall, or in the Castle Keep which was reconstructed in 1840.

The College is an academic community within Durham University of around 600 undergraduates and 50 postgraduates, and members of University staff attached to the College through the Senior Common Room. All members, both academic staff and students, share a common aim: the pursuit of knowledge. There are many other aspects of College life: cultural, sporting and social, but the main purpose of the College is academic.

Food & beverage

The rates include breakfast served between Monday to Friday 0800 to 1000 / Saturday and Sunday 0800 to 1030 in the medieval Great Hall.  The Castle does not offer any food above breakfast but there are plenty of places nearby with these facilities.

The College Undercroft Bar is open when events are taking place, although there may be event guests in the Bar the area is not private to events and B&B guests are welcome to enter. Check at the Reception for opening times.  There are numerous bars and restaurants within a few minutes' walk from the Castle.

Grounds & Gardens

The Castle, part of Durham's World Heritage Castle, is located on Palace Green across from the City's iconic Norman Cathedral. Either relax walking around the historic city or take a stroll along the nearby banks of the River Wear.

Due to the nature of Durham Castle, it is used as a venue for a variety of events and functions. As such, there may be some noise and minor disruption during your stay.

Durham Cathedral is located next to Durham Castle and, as a result, guests should be aware the Cathedral bells ring prior to services on a Sunday and between 1830 and 2030 each Thursday evening.

Other facilities

Rooms include tea and coffee making facilities. 

Wifi is available in all bedrooms and to connect guests must use ‘thecloud@durham’.

Guide and assistance dogs are welcome to stay, maximum one dog per room. However, the venue holds a policy that no other dogs can stay overnight.