Along with the magnificent cathedral, Durham Castle is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has been continuously occupied since its construction, which began in 1072 under the orders of William the Conqueror. Today it is part of the historic Durham University, the third oldest in Britain and a renowned centre of excellence.

Bumble-Bee

December 2, 2022

Hiking

Donated to the university and now used as student residence. Therefore opening times are limited, but one can get a glimpse into the inner yard when asking friendly.

Timber 👣 & Shakespeare 🐾

August 11, 2019

Hiking

The castle was originally built in the 11th century to protect the Bishop of Durham from attack. The north of England was a "very wild" area, especially after the Norman conquest in 1066 (starting with the Battle of Hastings). The castle is an example of the moth construction preferred by the Normans.
The Great Hall, built by Bishop Antony Bek in the early 14th century, was the largest of its time in Britain until Bishop Richard Fox downsized it towards the end of the 15th century. Today it is 14 m high and over 30 m long.

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Best routes to Durham Castle

4.9

(23)

hikers

1. River Wear & Durham City loop

16.3km

04:24

220m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

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2. Durham Cathedral & Castle loop

3.11km

00:51

50m

Easy 1.9-mile loop hike around Durham Cathedral and Castle, offering historic views and riverside paths in just 51 minutes.

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Easy

4.6

(36)

310

hikers

3. Durham Castle – The Count's House Folly loop from Durham

9.96km

02:37

90m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Details

Informations

Elevation 110 m

Weather

Today

Thursday 5 March

14°C

6°C

13 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h

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Take Me There

Location: City Of Durham, North East England, England, United Kingdom

Other Popular Places to Check Out

Durham Cathedral (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Maiden Castle Footbridge Over the River Wear

Croxdale Hall and Chapel

Waldridge Fell

View of Durham Castle and Cathedral from the Riverside

View of Durham Cathedral from the River Wear

Bluebell Woodland Path

Gentle Path Through Croxdale Estate

View of Prebends Bridge and Durham Cathedral

River Wear Along the Weardale Way

West Bowburn Way, Tursdale Wood

River Deerness

Durham Castle

1. River Wear & Durham City loop

2. Durham Cathedral & Castle loop

3. Durham Castle – The Count's House Folly loop from Durham

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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