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

JOURNALIST “RETIRES” FOR A SECOND TIME

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

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JOURNALIST “RETIRES” FOR A SECOND TIME

18 February 2026

A journalist, who played a key role in charting the major resurgence and impact of the city’s Freemen across the last 15 years, has stepped…

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Next Event

11 May 2026

May Day Guild Day 2026

11 May 2026 11:00 · Guild Hall, Durham Town Hall

The meetings are always on a Monday and begin at 11.00 am. Guild Days are presided over by the Right Worshipful Mayor of the City of Durham. All Freemen their families and the general public are most welcome. Calls for new members and subsequent inauguration take place on Guild Days.