1. Home
  2. Visit Us
  3. Groups and schools

Group Visits

The impressive architecture of the nave, the 1000-year history of Durham Cathedral, the treasures of the cathedral's collections and the friendliness of our knowledgeable guides - discover all this and more on a group visit to Durham Cathedral.

Outside view of Durham Cathedral.

Booking a group visit

Groups of all kinds are welcome to join us at the cathedral. We ask all groups to book ahead, which allows us to make sure there are no major events or services that would disrupt your visit.

To make a booking, complete our enquiry form.

Complete an enquiry form

Tours

Take a tour of the cathedral with one of our expert guides and discover hidden gems and fascinating stories about the cathedral's rich history. Tours are also available in the evening, for a unique experience after the cathedral is closed to the public. 

Or, if you have something else in mind, we can offer bespoke tours or talks on specialist subjects, including pilgrimage, stained glass windows, and decorative art. 

Family visiting Durham Cathedral.

Explore the cathedral at your own pace

Pre-booked groups are welcome to explore the cathedral without a guide, or can be guided by their accompanying academic or certified blue badge guide.

Private organ recital

Add a special touch to your visit with a private organ recital, with visitors seated in the 17th century carved wooden choir stalls in the Quire, the heart of the cathedral.

Subject to availability and additional charges apply.

Richly decorated organ-pipes.

Worship and private chapel service

Private prayer and reflection can be included as part of your visit in the 13th century Chapel of the Holy Cross, a tranquil chapel underneath the Deanery.

Subject to availability and additional charges apply.

Groups are always to welcome to join in any of our regular services.

More about coming to a service

Pilgrimage

Find out how Durham became a centre for pilgrimage, and how to plan your own modern pilgrimage.

Durham Cathedral Museum

Marvel at the spectacular 14th century Monks’ Dormitory and magnificent Great Kitchen housing the unique Treasures of St Cuthbert alongside some of the most significant surviving Early Medieval artefacts in the UK.
Tower climb visitors

Tower climb

Climb the tower to view this UNESCO World Heritage Site and Durham City from above. See the roof, masonry and exterior of the Central Tower up close.

Hospitality

We can offer a range of catering choices such as lunch or cream tea and scones after your tour.

These are served to your group in reserved seating in the Cloister against the backdrop of the cathedral, or in the medieval Prior’s Hall, formerly the Prior’s dining room when the cathedral was a monastery. This is not usually open to the public and is subject to availability and minimum numbers.

The Undercroft Cafe

Useful links

Plan your visit

Useful information including opening times and donations.
Cathedral during Autumn

Getting here and parking

Getting to Durham Cathedral by car and public transport.
Cathedral view from the South.

Accessibility

Everyone is welcome at Durham Cathedral. Find tips for visiting the cathedral with disabilities, and information about the accessibility of different spaces around the cathedral.