For the first time in eight years, the historic documents will be on display at the cathedral as part of the ‘Magna Carta and the North’ exhibition.
From July 11, 2025, to November 2, 2025, visitors will have the opportunity to see the only surviving 1216 Magna Carta, alongside issues from 1225 and 1300, and three Forest Charters.
The exhibition was launched on Heritage Treasure Day yesterday – a day dedicated to celebrating heritage projects, venues, and treasures, will provide a unique insight into these rare documents.
Alison Cullingford, the head of libraries and collections at Durham Cathedral, said: “We care for an extensive medieval archive here at Durham Cathedral and the Magna Cartas and Forest Charters are some of the most remarkable documents within it.
“Due to their fragile nature and historical importance, these documents are rarely seen by the general public so we’re very excited to announce that they will be on display once again for the world to see.”
The last time the Magna Cartas and the Forest Charters were on display at Durham Cathedral was in the summer of 2017, when almost 19,000 people came to see them over an 11-week period.
The Dean of Durham, the Very Revd Dr Philip Plyming, said: “Magna Carta is an extraordinary document underpinned by a belief that all people – including those who hold most power – are accountable to God.
“The principles of freedom and access to justice go all the way back to the Old Testament and are as relevant now as they were then; I am delighted that the display of Durham Cathedral’s wonderful Magna Cartas and the equally important Forest Charters will give all visitors the chance to reflect on the story of their creation and their meaning today.”
To mark the occasion and celebrate the anniversary of these rare surviving documents, the cathedral is planning to host temporary installations and community-focused artworks throughout the cathedral.
These will tell the story of the 800-year-old documents that are still a powerful symbol of social justice in the world today.
Andrew Usher, chief officer for visitor experience and enterprise, said: “Next summer it will have 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 keen to really mark the occasion, by not only showcasing these fascinating documents but also exploring what they mean in the world today.
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“Taking inspiration from the themes of freedom and social justice we’re looking at ways to engage even more people by telling the story of the Magna Cartas through art, light, and sound around the cathedral.”
Tickets are now available for the exhibition at £7.50 for adults and free for under 18s.
For more information visit www.durhamcathedral.co.uk.