Cosin’s Library, Durham – How to Visit the Most Magical Library in England

If you’re a reading lover or a fan of history, then you must visit the magical Cosin’s Library in Durham City.

It’s one of the earliest public libraries in the North East of England and was founded in 1669 by Bishop John Cosin. 

I can’t believe I visited this historic city twice before I heard of this place. It’s definitely a bit of a literary hidden gem.

When I saw my friend Chloe’s stories (from New Girl in Toon) of this stunning library, I just knew I had to visit for myself.

If you’re a Potterhead, you will fall in love with this library as it looks straight out of Hogwarts.

It’s the perfect place to visit alongside the filming locations at Durham Cathedral. 

Here’s how to visit Cosin’s Library in Durham, the most magical library in all of England! 

Introducing Cosin’s Library

Often referred to as one of the North East’s greatest literary treasures, you’ll find Cosin’s Library tucked away in the wider Palace Green Library owned by Durham University.

It’s one of the earliest still-surviving public libraries in this part of the country.

The collection contains over 4,400 books, including medieval manuscripts, incunabula and precious Bibles. 

Many of the books were part of Cosin’s personal collection, and he donated them to give the general public access to ‘good books’ in the 17th century. 

The volumes contained in this beautiful place haven’t moved from their original location in over 350 years, and it’s still a working library today. 

Cosin’s Library History 

Bishop John Cosin founded the ‘Episcopal Library of the Bishop of Durham’ in 1669. 

After the disastrous events of the English Civil War, there was a need to re-establish episcopal authority in the North of England. 

Cosin was also a lover of learning through books and served as a librarian to another bishop in his early years.

So, he decided to open a public library of his own next to Durham Cathedral.

In the 17th century, public libraries were rare, and only certain members of society were allowed in.

Originally, Cosin’s Library was only open to members of the clergy, lawyers and esteemed gentlemen. 

The motto for his new place of learning was “Non minima eruditionis est bonos nosse libros”.

This translates to “not the least part of learning is the knowledge of good books”. You can still see this motto above the door of the library today.

Simply put, he wanted the public to have access to and be familiar with the types of books contained in his library. 

Cosin personally oversaw the first collection and library catalogue for the books.

Many of these are theological works, but there are also books on history, Ancient Roman and Greek classics, law and philosophy.

Many of the books donated were part of his original collection, but he also spent some £2000 on books for the library.

This was no small sum back then, according to inflation calculators. It is estimated that this would have been around half a million pounds.

The room to contain the precious collection cost £500 to build and was overseen by John Langstaffe, a local Quaker and master mason. 

The design was a large open space with bookshelves, a fireplace and a mezzanine gallery. 

There are also portraits of famous philosophers, theologians, historians and classical authors painted by Dutch artist Jan Baptist van Eersel.

Although it’s changed appearance slightly over the years, many of the original features and books from Cosin’s era remain.

Even after Cosin died in 1672, the library is still a precious jewel in the crown of Palace Green. 

When Durham University was founded in 1832, it became part of the campus but is still used as a public library today.

Can you visit Cosin’s Library today?

Yes, reading lovers will be happy to know that you can visit this historic library in Durham.

Just as Bishop Cosin originally wished, the library is open to all, and you can visit to see all the ‘good books’ inside.

I would highly recommend visiting if you find yourself in Durham, as it is the most magical bookish location.

If you’re a fan of Harry Potter, this library is the perfect addition to chasing some Harry Potter filming locations in Durham Cathedral.

This book trove honestly looks like it’s straight out of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. 

Opening times and ticket prices 

It’s good to know that Cosin’s Library isn’t open every day. So, if you were set on visiting, it’s best to check beforehand

At the time of writing, the library is open to visitors from Wednesday to Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays from 11 am – 3 pm. 

You do need a ticket in order to visit. Library tickets are completely free of charge, and you can book your time slot through Eventbrite. 

Booking your tickets 

To visit Cosin’s Library, you need to book a free ticket and time slot through Eventbrite.

It’s very easy to do, and you can book a ticket on any day that the library is open.

Tickets are for 30 minutes only, so make sure to book around a time that you’re definitely going to be available.

You’ll get a confirmation sent to your email with your QR code and ticket.

It usually sends you a reminder the day before the ‘event’ (or it did for me anyway). 

How to find Cosin’s Library in Durham

Cosin’s Library is quite hidden away despite it being located right next to the main attraction of Durham Cathedral.

You can find it inside the delightful Palace Green Library, which is sandwiched between the famous cathedral and Durham Castle.

There is no parking near Palace Green, so you will need to park and walk to the cathedral area. 

There are exceptions for Blue Badge holders if you notify them in advance.

The closest parking is Prince Bishop’s Shopping Centre, and it’s a short 10-minute walk from there. But, fair warning, some parts are quite steep.

It’s also good to note that Durham City has a congestion charge that applies for driving in the city peninsula from Monday to Saturday. 

So, it may be best to use one of the Durham Park and Ride services to avoid a hefty driving and parking fee. 

I would plan your route so you don’t miss your library time slot.

Entering Palace Green Library 

Just before your time slot, you can head inside Palace Green Library and present yourself to the kind staff in reception.

Say you’re there to visit the library and then you’ll be accompanied down the steps to the waiting room.

The staff will then unlock the doors of this literary jewel for you.

When I tell you I was buzzing with anticipation, it would be an understatement. 

I just love historic libraries and antique books, so I knew that behind the doors would be something breathtaking.

Exploring the historic Durham Library

As soon as I stepped inside Cosin’s Library, I was astounded by the stunning dark wood interiors.

There were intricately carved bookshelves with hand-painted portraits, a cosy fireplace and busts of university founders on the walls.

There is an original study table at the far end of the room, fashioned with large wooden and carved chairs to sit on.

This would be the ideal place to read one of the books, if only you could!

One of my favourite parts was the spiral staircase which leads you to the upper floor containing even more shelves of books.

But, alas, you can’t climb the staircase on a tour or step on the upper floor for conservation purposes *sniff*.

As part of your visit, you’re free to browse all the bookshelves and display cases on the lower floor.

Sadly, you can’t touch any of the volumes as a normal visitor. However, I still loved admiring all the book spines.

Also, I wish you could smell this library through the screen as it has that perfect old book smell that is so dreamy. 

As an avid reader, I was in my element the entire time as it oozes Dark Academia vibes.

Can you study here or read any of the books?

As a regular visitor, you are only invited to see the books in this library as part of a 30-minute tour.

You can’t touch anything inside for conservation purposes.

If you were wondering, the book I’m holding is The Tales of Beedle the Bard notebook by House of MinaLima.

Thankfully, they have some of the precious books on display in glass cases so you can take a look inside some of Cosin’s published works. 

There are staff inside who can answer any questions you have about the collection.

If you are a student or someone who wishes to study the collection, you can request permission to view some of the books under supervision. Find out how here. 

Don’t forget to visit the Palace Green exhibitions

After you visit Cosin’s library, don’t forget that the Palace Green Library building has some incredible free exhibitions to visit.  

You can explore the Durham History exhibition ‘ Under Durham ‘, which tells an amazing story of the history of the city and its residents. 

They also have temporary exhibits on display. On my visit, they had ‘Penned and Printed’ telling hidden stories.

I particularly loved Cosin’s books displayed on natural medicines and the stories of the Suffragettes. 

Also, there is a very interesting Museum of Archaeology which presents some of the spectacular discoveries they have found around this area.

You’ll see Bronze Age skulls, Ancient Roman ceramics, Medieval weapons and more!

How long do you need to visit Cosin’s Library? 

You can only visit this library for 30 minutes maximum, so this is the time you will need to visit.

However, I would leave at least 1-2 hours around your time slot, as you will need to travel to the library and visit some of the other exhibitions.

If you also plan to visit Durham Cathedral while you’re here, I would bump this visit up to 4 hours as there is so much to see and do inside.  

You could easily spend an entire day in this historic area as there are so many beautiful buildings and attractions. It makes an amazing day trip. 

Top tips for visiting the library

• I would book a time slot and ticket through Eventbrite to avoid disappointment. These slots can and do sell out as visitor numbers are capped, especially on busier days and weekends. 

• You can only visit the library for 30 minutes at a time; it’s a shame as I could have honestly snuggled up with a book there all day.

• No food or drink is allowed to be taken into the library, or anything that could damage the books.

• Photography and video are allowed, but no tripods or selfie sticks. I was visiting alone, so thank you to the staff member who took my photos.

Is Cosin’s Library worth visiting?

All in all, I loved my visit to Cosin’s Library, and I feel it’s well worth visiting if you find yourself in Durham. 

It truly is a literary hidden gem in the North of England, and I can’t believe more people don’t talk about it. It’s honestly a dream for reading lovers. 

Tickets are easy to book and free of charge, so you really have nothing to lose by going (donations are always appreciated). 

Don’t skip a visit to Cosin’s Library in Durham; it really is the most magical library in Northern England. 

Are you looking for more amazing things to do in Durham?

Durham is one of my favourite cities in the world as it is breathtaking and packed with so much history.

Of course, the most famous attraction is Durham Cathedral, but there is so much to do around County Durham as well.

You have Durham City, the Durham Heritage Coast and the Durham Dales littered with magical attractions.

Here are the best things to do in County Durham and beyond.

Durham Cathedral

The Norman Durham Cathedral we see today was constructed between 1093 and 1133 during the reign of William the Conqueror. 

However, it is thought that there was an Anglo-Saxon place of worship before that in honour of St Cuthbert.

St Cuthbert was a monk who died in 687AD on Inner Farne Island of Northumberland and is known as the North’s best-loved saint. 

After the Viking Invasion, the community there fled Lindisfarne and took St Cuthbert’s body with them to protect it. 

They carried him around the North of England for years until they finally settled in Durham.

This is where they built a large place of worship to honour him and house his holy relics.

Ever since its construction almost 1000 years ago, the church has remained an active place of worship and pilgrimage.

It’s thought that over 600,000 people visit annually, so you have to be one of them.

It’s also famous today for being a filming location for the first two Harry Potter movies.

Durham Harry Potter filming locations 

If you’re a Potterhead, you must head inside Durham Cathedral as there are lots of Harry Potter filming locations to find.

You’ll spot scenes from Hogwarts corridors in the cloisters, Professor McGonagall’s classroom, Quidditch practice and even Fluffy’s lair.

My favourite location is where Dobby is freed from the Malfoys by Harry’s sock.

Lots of fans wear their robes here for a photoshoot, and the staff love to see Potterheads get involved.

Top tip: the cathedral can sometimes close for services during the day, but the cathedral cloisters are always open.

You can visit if you walk around the back and enter through the cloister entrance instead. Sometimes this is better as it will be much quieter.

Durham Castle

Durham Castle was an important historic stronghold since the 11th century but is now part of Durham University. 

As it is a working student campus, you must book a guided tour to visit. In summer, they often allow visitors to explore the castle self-guided. 

I was lucky enough to visit on one of their historic open days, so my visit was self-guided and free, if a little hectic.

You can visit their historic underground chapel, staterooms and the stunning Black Staircase, which is an architecture lovers’ dream.

Potterheads will also love the fact that the production team used the Great Hall here to inspire parts of Hogwarts Great Hall.

The main inspiration was Christchurch in Oxford (where you can sleep over), but Durham Castle was also an inspiration. Or, that’s what the staff say.

Around County Durham 

Durham City is a marvel, but don’t ignore the countryside and coast surrounding it in the wider County Durham. 

I love to visit the Durham Heritage Coast as there are some incredible coastal towns like Seaham.

Just nearby, you can visit magical places like Blast Beach, aka the Alien Beach that featured in The Last Kingdom on Netflix.

You can also visit the North Pennines easily from here with adorable towns such as Barnard Castle.

This is home to the famous Bowes Museum and near to Raby Castle, which is one of the finest castles in all of England.

There are some incredible waterfalls in this area, like High Force Waterfall (charges a fee) and Low Force Waterfall (free). 

Also, you may be surprised to know you’re within touching distance of Hadrian’s Wall and Northumberland National Park.

There are plenty of incredible outdoor attractions to be found there.

You can walk the famous Sycamore Gap, visit The Sill Discovery Centre, chase Roman discoveries at Vindolanda and hike to Walltown Crags. 

Why not spend a night in Hagrid’s Hut?

Have you ever wanted to spend a magical night in Hagrid’s Hut at Hogwarts?

Well, now you can by heading down to North Yorkshire, and it’s only a one-hour drive from Durham.

The Groundskeeper’s Cottage by North Shire is the only one of its kind in the world and is a life-size hut that you can book to spend the night.

It has a living room, kitchen, Ministry of Magic bathroom, and bedroom, which makes the entire place cosy. There’s even a Ford Anglia outside.

It’s been set up as the perfect Potterhead retreat in the countryside.

So, you can relax on the sofa, pour yourself some Butterbeer, and have a Harry Potter movie night.

I recently stayed here, and it was the most magical time. It is expensive but worth splurging on.

Read more of my North of England guides

Fountains Abbey Witcher filming location

Why you must visit Mother Shipton’s Cave

Our Chapel of the Lady of the Crag in Knaresborough

Plumpton Rocks Witcher filming locations

Gordale Scar Witcher filming locations 

Malham Cove Harry Potter filming location

Goathland Harry Potter filming location 

A Last Kingdom fan’s guide to Bamburgh

Harry Potter filming locations in Alnwick Castle

Save Cosin’s Library Durham for later!