Graduands are given the opportunity to advise of any special requirements for themselves and guests when registering for the ceremony. Graduands and guests can also contact the Ceremonies Unit directly to discuss any special arrangements or accessibility issues that may affect either themselves or their guests while attending Congregation so we can provide advice or support as appropriate.
Please note there is no public parking on Palace Green (the area between the Castle and the Cathedral) and Durham city centre will be busy on Congregation days. Graduands and their guests are advised to use the various car parks situated around Durham, including Durham's Park and Ride service, and metered on-street parking which is available all over the city. Graduands and guests with mobility issues can be dropped off at the bottom of Owengate (the road that leads to Palace Green) by car or taxi.
Congregation guests enter the Cathedral from approximately 45 minutes prior to the ceremony from the Congregation Information Point on Palace Green to the Galilee Chapel entrance before being guided into the main body of the Cathedral. Guests may have to wait to enter the Cathedral and maybe standing outside for a period of time.
Guests using wheelchairs will be escorted into the Cathedral and are requested to report to the Congregation Information Point, with a companion if they wish, 45 minutes before the ceremony.
Guests with mobility issues will be escorted into the Cathedral to take a seat in the Galilee Chapel and should report to the Congregation Information Point, with a companion if they wish, 1 hour and 10 minutes before the ceremony.
Please note, companions must also have a ticket to enter the Cathedral.