Description
Durham Museum is located in the City of Durham in the North of England. Founded in 1976, Durham Museum occupies the redundant parish church of St. Mary-le-Bow, situated next to the World Heritage Site of Durham Cathedral and Castle.
Durham Museum presents the history of the people of Durham from medieval times to the present day. Our displays combine objects, models, pictures and audio-visual media. The displays provide an overview of life, labour and leisure in this ancient fortified city, major centre of pilgrimage and capital of the Prince Bishops of Durham.
Price starts from £5.00 for Adults and free for Children(under 16) and £2.50 for Students. If you are looking for Best place for day out with kids and families then this is the perfect destination offering fun, adventure, and unforgettable memories for everyone.
Features
- Paid
- Host birthday parties: No
Features
Key Features
- Historic Context: The former museum was a focal point for understanding Durham's social and trade history.
- Collaborative Heritage: Ongoing efforts are maintained by local organisations to preserve the spirit of the museum's collection.
- UNESCO Setting: The former site is located in the heart of Durham’s World Heritage area, surrounded by centuries of architecture.
- Cultural Legacy: The museum’s mission to preserve local identity continues through broader community projects and digital archives.
What to See (Nearby Alternatives)
- Durham Cathedral: Explore one of the finest examples of Norman architecture, featuring an interactive museum where children can learn about the history of the site.
- Durham Castle: Situated adjacent to the cathedral, this site provides guided tours that offer a vivid glimpse into medieval life.
- Oriental Museum: An excellent, family-friendly museum featuring Egyptian mummies, Japanese samurai artefacts, and various interactive workshops throughout the year.
- Durham University Botanic Garden: Ideal for a family walk, this site provides 25 acres of woodland and gardens with seasonal activities perfect for young children.
- Riverside Paths: The River Wear offers scenic paths for a gentle walk, providing iconic views of the cathedral and castle—a perfect way to engage with the city's history.
Detailed Inventory of Heritage Sites
- The Cathedral Museum: Located in the Monks' Dormitory, showcasing the treasures of St Cuthbert.
- Palace Green Library: A space often used for temporary exhibitions related to regional and university history.
- The Chorister School Grounds: Historic buildings surrounding the cathedral that reflect centuries of religious education.
- Prebends Bridge: A historic 18th-century bridge offering some of the most famous views of Durham.
- Fleece Hotel Site: Known for its historical architectural significance in the city centre.
- Elvet Bridge: A medieval bridge that serves as a historic entry point to the city.
Beyond the Main Attraction
- Beamish Museum: Located a short distance from Durham, this world-famous open-air museum offers a fully immersive historical day out for families.
- Tanfield Railway: Visit the world’s oldest railway for a nostalgic steam train journey through the North East countryside.
- Causey Arch: Explore the world’s oldest surviving single-arch railway bridge.
- Derwent Walk Country Park: Excellent for family-friendly walks and cycling along former railway lines.
New for 2026: Highlights in Durham Heritage
- The Light – Opening Summer 2026: Located at the heart of the Durham Innovation District on the site of the former DLI Museum, this major new cultural venue opens this summer. It will feature state-of-the-art gallery spaces and a dedicated DLI Gallery, offering immersive exhibitions that blend art, heritage, and science.
- 40th Anniversary of UNESCO Inscription: 2026 marks four decades since Durham Castle and Cathedral were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. To celebrate, the site is hosting special events and management initiatives to share the history of these iconic landmarks with new audiences.
- Restoration of the Durham Town Hall: Recently reopened following extensive refurbishment, the Town Hall is now a fully interactive heritage space. Visitors can explore its 650-year history through new short films, audio guides, and interactive information points that trace its evolution from a 14th-century timber structure.
- Redhills Restoration: The historic Durham Miners' Association building, Redhills, has officially opened its doors following major restoration work. This "Pitman’s Parliament" is now a fully accessible heritage and cultural space offering deep insights into the people and political movements that shaped the county.
1.52 miles
