Events programme for Magna Carta 800th anniversary unveiled
Durham Cathedral will celebrate the milestone anniversary of the 1225 issue of Magna Carta in its collection
Durham Cathedral has unveiled a wide-ranging programme of events to accompany its summer exhibition of three rare Magna Cartas, celebrating the 800th anniversary of the 1225 issue.
From July 11, alongside the display in the Cathedral Museum, visitors will be able to enjoy behind-the-scenes tours, family trails, interactive installations, and thought-provoking talks and debates, all designed to bring the legacy of Magna Carta to life for modern audiences.
The cathedral’s new events schedule spans July to November, inviting people of all ages to dive deeper into the historic documents' relevance and the broader social and cultural themes they inspire. Timed slots can also be booked to enable visitors to get up close to the historic exhibits.
Andrew Usher, chief officer, visitor experience and enterprise at Durham Cathedral, said: "It has been eight years since the Magna Cartas and Forest Charters were last on display, so with the 800th anniversary of the 1225 issue we’re looking forward to marking the occasion.
“As well as showcasing these fascinating documents we want all our visitors, no matter what their age, to explore what they mean in the world today.
“That's why alongside the documents and contemporary art installations, we've also put together an events programme.”
The programme’s first highlight is a new Secret Spaces Tour, giving visitors the chance to explore hidden corners of the cathedral, see some of the rarest books from its collection, and view a facsimile of Magna Carta in the historic Refectory Library before proceeding to the main exhibition.
In October, the much-loved Luxmuralis returns for its third year, promising another spectacular light and sound experience. Running from October 8 to 12, this year’s show, The Storytellers, will see the cathedral’s ancient stone walls animated by dazzling projections that celebrate the magic of literature - from sacred texts to iconic children’s books.
The accompanying installations, previously announced earlier this year, will remain in place throughout the exhibition’s run, offering a contemporary lens on the enduring impact of Magna Carta and the Forest Charters.
To make visits more accessible, the cathedral is offering combined tickets for paid events such as the Secret Spaces Tours and Luxmuralis, which include Museum access. Free talks, family activities, and interactive art installations will be available throughout the season, and Museum entry remains free for under 18s.
Full details and ticket options are available via the website.