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 a full English breakfast served between Monday to Friday 8:00-10:00 / Saturday and Sunday 8:00-10:30 in the medieval Great Hall

The College Undercroft bar is generally open most evenings from 6 to 11pm. Check at the Reception for opening times.

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, our staff will endeavour to control this where possible.

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 18.30 and 20.30 each Thursday evening.

Other facilities

Rooms include tea & coffee making facilities. As part of your stay you are welcome to join one of the public guided tours on a complimentary basis. During University vacations tours are normally available every morning of the week at 10.15am, 11.15am and 12.15pm, and in the afternoons when there are no commercial activities (e.g. weddings), from 14.15pm to 17.15pm.

Wifi is available in all bedrooms, please ask for a password at reception