Durham Cathedral from Bow Lane with Hatfield College in the foreground

Durham’s architecture spans 1,000 years of history, ranging from its Norman Cathedral and Castle to Dunelm House, the Brutalist student union building.

The city comprises secular and religious, private and public buildings, in addition to open spaces such as Palace Green and the River Banks. Durham is an urban site with a setting that feels surprisingly rural. Because of the site's continuity of use and many layers of architectural history, the overall spirit of Durham is one of a living historic city.

Explore the monumental architecture of Durham, from ribbed vaulting to hidden chapels and bishops' bedrooms.