Ushaw College

Ushaw College is a Gothic Revival complex near Durham with chapels, classrooms, and a theater spread across landscaped grounds. The site contains multiple interconnected buildings dating from different periods, forming a self-contained religious and educational community.

The college was founded in 1808 by scholars fleeing the French Revolution who relocated their English seminary from France. It trained priests for over 200 years before closing as a working seminary in 2011.

The college reflects centuries of Catholic priest training in England and how religious community life was organized within these walls. The layout and buildings show the daily rhythms that shaped generations of students and teachers.

The site is open to visitors on most days and offers guided tours through the historic buildings and grounds. It is best to check ahead for current hours and seasonal events, as these can change throughout the year.

The main chapel was designed by Augustus Pugin and features elaborately decorated ceilings and stained-glass windows that display Victorian craftsmanship. Pugin was a renowned architect who shaped other significant religious buildings across England.

Location: Ushaw Moor

Inception: 1808

Architects: Archibald Matthias Dunn

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

Operator: Ushaw Historic House, Chapels & Gardens

Opening Hours: 11:00-16:00

Website: http://ushaw.org

GPS coordinates: 54.78818,-1.66116

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:26