Summer Holiday activities
Looking for ideas for the family this summer? From mini-tours and Peace Doves activities to trails, Harry Potter Filming Locations and Durham Cathedral in LEGO® there's lots happening at Durham Cathedral this summer to entertain the whole family.
And don't forget, if you work up an appetite you can head to the Undercroft Café, and take advantage of our 'Kids Eat Free' offer too.
Upcoming family events and activities
Create your own Peace Dove
Event date and start time
Monday 1 April 2024 - Saturday 20 July 2024 10:00am
Be part of a giant art installation in Durham Cathedral by making your own Peace Dove.
More infoSummer Family Activity: Mini Tour with Mystery Object
Event date and start time
Various dates
Join us for a mini-tour about doves in the cathedral! Departing every 30 minutes, these 10 min tours start by selecting a special object from a bag and discovering the meaning behind the object as we move around the cathedral.
More infoPeace Doves by Peter Walker
Event date and start time
Various dates
Gaze up to 15,000 paper peace doves in the Nave of Durham Cathedral this Summer.
More info
Summer Family Activities
Event date and start time
Various dates
This summer explore the cathedral with the whole family and discover crafts, trails and special mini-tours.
Peace Doves Quiet Hour
Event date and start time
Various dates 9:00am
Experience Peace Doves with reduced lighting and no soundtrack on Tuesday mornings throughout the installation.
More info
Other things for families at the cathedral
Free entry for kids
Did you know that kids go free in Durham Cathedral Museum and the Tower? Children under the age of 18 can experience areas of the cathedral which usually have an additional charge, absolutely free with an accompanying adult.
Be an outdoor explorer
Explore the woodland paths and riverside trails around the cathedral. Take a look at the woodlands and riverbanks page for walking routes and more information.
Don't forget to look up...
Take some time and see what you can find when looking up at the vaulted ceilings, the pillars, colourful stained glass windows, the font and Prior Castell’s Clock. The most amazing things to see in the cathedral are often up high above your head. Prepare to surprise your eyes with 'wow' moments at every turn.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the toilets?
Accessible toilets and baby-changing facilities can be found in the toilet block. Go through the cloister and exit beyond the shop and café.
Can I bring a pushchair into the cathedral?
Yes, we welcome children in pushchairs and the majority of the building is step-free. However, due to the age of the building, some parts of the cathedral are only accessible by stairs. Access to the shop, restaurant, toilets and museum is via stairs or lift. For further details to help you plan your visit, see our accessibility page.
Is breastfeeding permitted in the cathedral?
Yes, Durham Cathedral supports breastfeeding. Please feel free to feed your child as you wish. If you would prefer a private space to breastfeed, ask at the visitor desk inside the cathedral.
Do you have any children’s food options?
Yes, we have loads of choice in the café. Take a look at our cafe to find out more.
You might prefer to bring a picnic with you – the Monks’ Garden and our riverbank paths are both fantastic to recharge and let off some steam.
What is in the shop for families?
There is something for everyone! We have a wide range of children’s books, toys, activities, games, souvenirs and more, including plenty that can be bought with pocket money. Explore our shop.
Can I park at the cathedral?
Unfortunately the narrow streets means we can’t offer parking, apart from a very limited disabled area. However, many families enjoy making a day of it by using the Cathedral shuttle bus from the railway station. There is also a Park and Ride scheme. Find out more about getting here.
Do you have information about visiting with children who have access or sensory needs?
Everyone is welcome at Durham Cathedral. For tips about visiting the cathedral with disabilities, sensory needs and information about the accessibility of different spaces around the cathedral visit our Accessibility page