We are Durham City Freemen

The Freemen of Durham are the members of the eight Guilds or Companies comprising Barbers, Butchers, Cordwainers, Curriers, Drapers, Joiners, Masons and Plumbers. These Guilds are all that remain of the sixteen in the Middle Ages of which there is written evidence going back as far as 1450.

Our Story

New Freemen Inducted at Candlemas Guild Day 2026

Durham City Freemen Apprentice Awards 2026

Remembrance parade Organizing Group this was the best we have produced for Durham City

Guild Newcomers Discover They Share A Common Bond

A New Chapter for Durham’s Historic Town Hall

With The Freemen On Board Pitmen’s History “Seams” Clearer

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New Freemen Inducted at Candlemas Guild Day 2026

10 February 2026

On 2nd February 2026, two new Freemen were officially inducted during the Candlemas Guild Day ceremony. The honourees, Dave Cummings and Peter Carr, were sworn…

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Next Event

5 March 2026

Warden’s and Deputy Warden’s Meeting

5 March 2026 18:00 – 5 March 2026 19:15 · Guild Hall, Durham Town Hall

The Warden’s and Deputy Warden’s generally meet a few days in advance of their meetings with the Trustees in order to discuss agenda items and other business. They meet on Thursdays commencing at 6:00 pm.