Museum of Archaeology • Durham University - Durham

Joshua F.

I highly recommend looking at this museum and also going to the World heritage site center next door. There is an abundance of information here about the history of Durham as a historical side. If you are at all interested in Roman ruins, you will be more than pleased by this colourful and thoughtfully arranged museum. Roman history is as new as this museum goes. Anything middle ages and after is found in the cathedral itself and its own museum. The relics here date back to prehistory, tens of thousands of years ago, and there is information about the rocks here at Durham, the geological record, that dates back millions of years.

Antony L.

A great little museum - easily missed but well worth the visit. The Roman assemblage from nearby Piercebridge is a particularly special collection

Kosala D.

The Museum of Archaeology at Durham University offers a captivating exploration of the region’s rich archaeological heritage. Situated within the historic Palace Green Library, nestled between Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle, the museum provides an intimate yet comprehensive journey through time. 

It stands as one of England’s oldest university museums open to the public. The museum’s collections span from prehistoric times to the post-medieval period, featuring notable artifacts such as Bronze Age tools, Roman altars, and medieval cauldrons. A highlight includes the first complete Roman Fleet Diploma discovered in the UK, underscoring the museum’s significance in Roman Britain studies.  

Visitors often commend the museum for its well-organized exhibits and informative descriptions that provide clear historical context. The connection to Durham University’s active archaeological research adds depth to the experience, with some displays showcasing findings from local excavations. 

While the museum is relatively small, occupying a single gallery space, it compensates with the quality and significance of its collection. Its location within the UNESCO World Heritage Site makes it an accessible and enriching stop for those exploring Durham’s historic center.  

Admission is free, making it an excellent choice for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Whether you’re interested in archaeology, local history, or simply seeking a cultural experience in Durham, the Museum of Archaeology offers a rewarding visit.

Miles M.

This place has only just reopened, I was just passing on my way to see the Cathedral and got lucky scanning the QR code at the entrance for immediate access via Eventbrite eticket.
The archaeology collection is available to view on the ground floor with an exhibition covering the history of the Durham Light Infantry (DLI) on the first floor.
The archaeology collection is just one small room, mainly Roman artifacts but with a brief overview of the different archaeological periods in history eg. Mesolithic, Neolithic, Bronze Age etc.
My highlight was actually the DLI exhibition as it's unique to Durham and covers the history of this unit across 210 years from its formation in 1758 to its absorption into another regiment in 1968.

Jesse R.

Exceeded expectations. Friendly staff. Clean bathroom. Highly recommend!

John C.

Its not a large museum but there's a lot of well presented exhibits in there. The Roman period collections, including the Lanchester diploma were very interesting. It would be best to prebook although it wasn't busy when I visited, midweek. Its located between the castle and cathedral, and its free entry. There's a small military museum upstairs.

Victoria P.

A free, bite size museum with a mixture of general information about stone, bronze and Roman-age Britain and items found in the area. Pop in and enjoy for an hour!

Abra C.

Good little museum and we happened upon it whilst collecting our lanyards for the castle tour.

Has some nice artefacts and historical information, especially in regards to the Romans.