Established as a Catholic Seminary in 1808, Ushaw College represents the largest and most significant concentration of buildings, archives, books, artworks, and other artefacts related to the history of Catholicism in the North of England. Largely designed by A. W. N. Pugin and other gothic revivalist architects, Ushaw College is a magnificent symbol of the 19th-century Catholic revival.
The Library in Ushaw College is home to the internationally significant archive and rare book collections managed by Durham University and owned by the Trustees of Ushaw College.
The collections are currently in the process of being catalogued by University Library and Collections staff and available to search via Discover. Pre-booked access to the collections is available.
Durham Cathedral Library is administered by Durham Cathedral staff and comprises:
These collections are normally accessed via the Dormitory or Open Treasure Exhibition off the Cathedral Cloister. At the time of writing, Durham Cathedral Library is closed. Further information on access, contact details and procedures for booking appointments can be found at Durham Cathedral Library.
The medieval manuscripts and incunables (books printed before 1500) are currently accessed in the Barker Research Library, Palace Green.
Pre-booked access to the Durham Cathedral Archive and related collections held at 5 The College is available. For further information on the cathedral archive and related collections, see our separate guide.
Catalogue information on all the collections can be found in the University Discover system.
