Durham Cathedral
Durham Cathedral has been described as ‘one of the great architectural experiences of Europe’. It is renowned as a masterpiece of Romanesque (or Norman) architecture. It was begun in 1093 and largely completed within 40 years. It is the only cathedral in England to retain almost all of its Norman craftsmanship, and one of few to preserve the unity and integrity of its original design.
The Cathedral was built as a place of worship, specifically to house the shrine of the North's best-loved saint, Cuthbert, in whose honour pilgrims came to Durham from all over England. It was also the home of a Benedictine monastic community.
Durham Cathedral is the greatest Norman building in England, perhaps even in Europe. It is cherished not only for its architecture but also for its incomparable setting. For this reason it was inscribed together with the Castle as one of Britain's first World Heritage Sites. In a nationwide BBC poll held in 2001 it was voted the nation's best-loved building. Like Hadrian's Wall and the Angel of the North, it is an icon of north-east England, its image is instantly recognisable to people who love this part of Britain.
As an enduring monument to human skill and inventiveness, the Cathedral speaks powerfully of heritage and history. Its sheer size and splendour testify to the power of Norman overlords establishing their authority in the land they had conquered. Yet it was primarily built as a religious building: as the shrine of a humble saint, as a destination for pilgrims and as home for a community of worship, learning and practical care. It was built for the glory of God.
VISITORS INFMORMATION:
Admission: FREE
ATTRACTIONS:
The Treasures of St Cuthbert
The Cathedral houses the shrine of the seventh-century saint, Cuthbert of Lindisfarne. There are some objects on display in The Treasures which date back to Cuthbert himself - including his cross and his coffin. Other items tell the story of the Cathedral and the community associated with it right up to recent times.
Monday to Saturday
10.00am - 4.30pm
Sunday
2.00pm - 4.30pm
Sundays in December and January
2.00pm - 4.15pm
Admission:
Adults £2.50
Children 70p
Family ticket £6.00
Concessionary/group rate £2.00 per person
The Undercroft Restaurant
The Undercroft Restaurant at Durham Cathedral won a Taste of Durham award for 2010.
Open 10.00am to 4.30pm every day except Christmas Day, Boxing Day and Good Friday.
The Cathedral Book and Gift Shop
Monday - Saturday
9.00am - 5.30pm
Sunday
12.30pm - 5.30pm