On 23 July 2016 we opened our world-class exhibition experience Open Treasure! Almost one year later, 50,000 visitors have journeyed through this spectacular route at the heart of our medieval monastic buildings, exploring the heritage of Durham Cathedral and discovering remarkable objects from our collections.
Here are five reasons why Open Treasure should be at the top of your to-do list this summer…
1) Magna Carta and the Forest Charters
Monday 19 June – Saturday 9 September, Open Treasure
2017 marks the 800th anniversary of the Forest Charter, and we are celebrating in style! Durham Cathedral has not one but three issues of the Forest Charter, from 1225, 1300 and one of only two surviving originals from 1217.
See all three documents on display in the Open Treasure Collections Gallery alongside Durham Cathedral’s three issues of Magna Carta from 1225, 1300 and the only surviving original issue from 1216.
This is the first time all six documents will have been displayed together, marking a landmark moment in the Cathedral’s history.
2) The Treasures of St Cuthbert
From Saturday 29 July, Open Treasure
The Treasures of St Cuthbert are some of the most remarkable surviving Anglo-Saxon artefacts in the UK, including St Cuthbert’s preserved wooden coffin, pectoral cross, ivory comb and portable altar. See these stunning objects on permanent display in the spectacular Great Kitchen from 29 July, one of only two surviving medieval monastic kitchens in the UK!
3) New special offers and discounts
Open Treasure ticket holders can enjoy exclusive offers and discounts, including 10% off in the Undercroft Restaurant when you present your ticket.
From 19 June, we will also be offering Open Treasure entry with a guided tour of Durham Cathedral for just £10 (instead of £12.50).
Annual passes are also available, providing unlimited access for one year: www.durhamcathedral.co.uk/open-treasure/exhibition-programme
4) Ten Minute Talks
Every Wednesday at 2.00pm, visitors to Open Treasure can enjoy our series of Ten Minute Talks. Each week you can find out more about the extraordinary and unusual objects on display, and still have time for lunch!
Open Treasure admission applies.
Visit our website to see the talks scheduled for the next few weeks: www.durhamcathedral.co.uk/whatson/ten-minute-talks-2017
5) Fun for all the family!
Open Treasure is great fun for all the family! Dress as a monk, experience the sights, sounds and smells of monastic life in the Monks’ Dormitory, and explore the Open Treasure spaces with one of our family trails. We also have free backpacks designed especially for little explorers!
Throughout the summer holidays (from 28 July – 1 September), you can join us for our Family Fun Fridays with hands-on activities including cast-a-seal and strike-a-coin. We’ll even have our own medieval Scriptorium!
Admission to Open Treasure is free for under 5s and £2.50 for children aged 5 – 18, and includes all family fun activities.
Plan your visit…
Visit www.durhamcathedral.co.uk/open-treasure for opening times and ticket prices.
Please note, from 19 June – 28 July inclusive, a 10% discount will apply to all single Open Treasure tickets. The Great Kitchen will not be accessible during this time whilst we install The Treasures of St Cuthbert. Thank you for your understanding.
We look forward to welcoming you to Durham Cathedral and Open Treasure!
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