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Chapel Weddings & Services

Durham School Chapel is available for the weddings, baptisms, funerals and memorial services of pupils, parents, alumni, employees and retirees of The Foundation and its constituents of Durham School, The Chorister School and Bow, Durham School.

If you or your loved one does not have a connection to the Foundation, but there are extenuating circumstances that you would like us to consider, please do not hesitate to ask.

Chapel Weddings

With some of the most splendid buildings in the North East, Durham School Chapel is the perfect setting for your service and/or reception.

Rich in history, it offers a rare combination of heritage and beautifully maintained grounds in elegant, yet understated surroundings.  Dating back to the 18th century, our unique venues are steeped in tradition yet ideally suited to a contemporary, modern-day wedding.

Our dedicated events team offers an outstanding service with every attention to the smallest detail, while our experienced caterers are renowned for their superb cuisine, leaving you free to enjoy your special day.

The fee for hiring the Chapel for a wedding service is £750+VAT.

To book or to enquire about date availability please email events@dcsf.org.uk.

Baptisms

The Durham School Chapel is no stranger to hosting baptisms (or christenings as they are also known).

Baptism marks the start of the Christian journey, and in baptism we become a member of the Church, the body of Christ. If you think that this may be right for you then please do speak to the Chaplain.

Baptisms may be conducted in Chapel for children born to, or adopted by, the following:

  • Current Parents of Pupils at the Foundation
  • A current member of staff
  • Those with other connections – for instance, Old Dunelmians – may be accommodated though it is current Anglican guidance that where possible children should be baptised into a parish church.

The Chaplain will be pleased to meet you and discuss your hopes for your child and the meaning of growing up as a Christian today. However, please be aware that the life of the School Chapel is designed for staff and pupils to worship together as a community. For this reason, those wishing to have their child baptised here will need to have other arrangements in place for regular worship in a parish church or similar.

There is no charge for baptisms though a donation to support the work of the School Chapel is appreciated.

To book or to enquire about date availability please email events@dcsf.org.uk.

Funerals & Memorial Services

A funeral service takes place with the casket and the body present at the Chapel. A memorial service memorialises the deceased person without their body present at the service.

Funerals tend to be scheduled immediately following the death, whereas memorial services may be held weeks or even months after, depending on the availability of family members and friends.

There is a charge of £250 +VAT for using the School Chapel for the Funeral and Memorial Services.

The School is able to host a reception after the service in Big School or The Exhibition Room. Please do get in touch for more details.

A message for families affected by the closure of Durham High School

We understand that this will be a difficult and uncertain time for many Durham High School pupils, families and staff as they consider the next steps for their education and future.

If your family has been affected and you would like to discuss the options available, our Admissions Team is here to offer guidance, answer your questions and provide support in a confidential and compassionate manner.

Whether you are seeking information about places, transition arrangements, transport, scholarships, bursaries or simply wish to talk through your circumstances, we would be pleased to help.