Palace Green Library, home to the Museum of Archaeology, Cosin's Library and World Heritage Site Visitor Centre will be open to visitors at the following times (see Cosin's Library opening times on our website):
Opening times until Sunday 22 December:
Monday 23 December - Wednesday 1 January 2025:
From Thursday 2 January 2025:
For more information on opening times and visiting us, visit our website.
Durham Castle is open for guided tours until Thursday 19 December before closing for the festive period - visit our website for more information and available dates.
The museum will close at 5pm on Sunday 22 December and reopen at 10am on Friday 3 January 2025. Visit our website for more information on visiting us.
We run a varied exhibition programme based on our outstanding collections and cutting-edge research.
Why not take some time over the Christmas vacation to explore some of our online exhibitions from the comfort of your own home!
Be part of Durham University's annual Student Art Prize! From Thursday 31 October 2024 to Monday 17 February 2025 the Art Collection will be accepting submissions under this year’s theme of LIGHT. If shortlisted, you will have the opportunity to have your artwork exhibited, have your work become part of the University’s Art Collection, as well as win cash prizes of up to £750!
This year we have collaborated with the BFI to create a brand new prize - the Film Award in association with the BFI will be awarded to the best film or moving image artwork.
Our ‘Art Prize Art School’ offers a programme of free artist workshops, talks, and resources to inspire you to apply for the Student Art Prize. Although the University does teach practical art courses, the ‘Art Prize Art School’ has become a regular part of the University’s student art programme, supporting you to create new work, hone your artistic skills and support your mental well-being.
A limited number of Art Packs, containing creative materials to get you started, zines made by our Artist in Residence, postcards and creative inspiration are also available as part of the ‘Art Prize Art School’ programme in the Bill Bryson Library at the Creative Station which is restocked regularly.
For 2024/25 we have invited artist Sarah Calavera, as our Artist in Residence, to help students explore this years theme of Light. Sarah is a mixed media artist, gel printmaker and creative explorer based in Crook, County Durham. She will be running free workshops, including Cyanotype, Gel Printing and Image Transfer sessions, as well as drop-in Art Clinic to gain creative advice, conquer creative roadblocks, ask about the prize and share your work in progress.
Find out How to Apply and more about the Art Prize Art School.