Palace Green, Durham

Palace Green in Durham is an atmospheric, rectangular grassy promenade at the top of a rocky peninsula formed by a sharp bend in the River Wear. Flanked on one side by the monumental Norman Durham Cathedral and on the other by the formidable Durham Castle-both UNESCO-listed sites-it feels like stepping into a medieval painting. The open space, originally known as “le Place”, was once home to administrative offices and the mint of the Prince‑Bishops of Durham; over the centuries, “place” Anglicized into “palace”, giving the Green its enduring name.

This historic green is surrounded by centuries of significant architecture and vibrant life. To the east, charming civic and university buildings now house departments of history, theology, classics, and music. To the west, the Palace Green Library complex includes a collection of interlinked structures ranging from the 15th‑century Exchequer Building through the stately 17th‑century Cosin’s Library, and onward to later additions by Sir George Pace. Within, you'll find the University’s Museum of Archaeology, a free-to-visit attraction showcasing prehistoric to medieval finds from North East England.

For tourists, Palace Green is perfect for combining leisurely exploration, cultural enrichment, and photo-worthy moments. Guided tours often begin here, then continue into the cathedral crypt or up into the castle interiors, both rich in stories of bishops, scholars, and royalty. The adjacent Palace Green Library is home to remarkable treasures such as the Shakespeare First Folio, and you can pick up maps, exhibit info, or guided‑tour tickets through its Visitor Centre.

Crossing the Green via cobbled lanes like Owengate, Dun Cow Lane, or Windy Gap reveals scenic views and leads to Durham’s café-lined streets. From picnics beneath the cathedral to exhibitions at Cosin’s Library, it’s a perfect glimpse into the city’s heritage and university life.