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Steel band playing on Palace Green at World Heritage Day 2022

To mark the return of World Heritage Day, we are delighted to be hosting a celebration of Durham’s history and culture with a free event for the whole family at the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Following the success of last year’s event, Durham’s World Heritage Day will see a range of exciting and interactive activities happening in the beautiful and historic surroundings of Palace Green on Easter Monday.  

Throughout the day, exclusive tours and trails will take place through some of our ancient University buildings on the site, including Palace Green Library, Pemberton Buildings, Owengate and Durham Castle, along with  Durham Cathedral. There will also be outdoor live music, craft workshops, storytelling sessions, medieval re-enactments and even a spot of Quidditch! All events are free of charge and will take place between noon and 4pm on Monday 10 April. 

Organiser Ged Matthews from Durham University is looking forward to the day of events, he said; “World Heritage Site Day was such a success last year, we are looking forward to welcoming even more visitors to enjoy the activities and soaking up the fun this year. Keep your eyes peeled for some secret interventions inspired by University research.”

 Durham World Heritage site was inscribed by UNESCO in 1986 in recognition of its Outstanding Universal Value, becoming one of the first UK sites to be listed. The site has remained in constant use for 1000 years as a centre for religion, education and pilgrimage and is jointly owned and managed by Durham University, Durham Cathedral and Durham County Council. Together they are responsible for ensuring that the site is well managed, protected and meets the legal requirements set out by both the UK government and UNESCO. 

Find out more

More information: www.thisisdurham.com/world-heritage-day  

DU Event listing: World Heritage Day 2023 - Durham University

Durham Castle: Durham Castle - Durham University

WHS Visitor Centre: World Heritage Site Visitor Centre - Durham University

Explore events at our other venues: Things To Do - Durham University