Illustration of a generic entertainment scene (Benjamin Britten's Ceremony of Carols)
Christmas Shows

Benjamin Britten's Ceremony of Carols

Audiences experience Christmas Vespers sung by candlelight by the Cathedral's Lay Clerks and Choral Scholars. Young boy and girl choristers process through the sacred space singing plainsong. The choristers then perform Benjamin Britten's Ceremony of Carols accompanied by Richard Allen on the harp.

What to Expect

Candlelit Christmas Vespers and Britten's carols with choir and harp.

Event Details

Duration

60 minutes.

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Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ ⚪ (3/5)

Best For

Listeners who enjoy choral and classical music

Vibe

Candlelit and reverent

Energy Level

Low

Budget

Free

Photo Friendly

Low

Weather Sensitivity

None

Location

Durham Cathedral
The College, Durham DH1 3EH
Durham

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: Free of charge with a retiring collection; Unreserved Seating (Complimentary), £0.00. – Get tickets
  • Hours: Doors open at 5.15 p.m.

Tips & Advice

  • Choose a complimentary ticket in advance if you want to secure your place for the unreserved-seating performance.
  • Arrive before the performance begins so you have time to find an unreserved seat.
  • Allow about an hour for the performance, which includes Vespers and Britten’s Ceremony of Carols.
  • Bring a contribution for the retiring collection if you would like to support the Cathedral.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Admission is free, with a retiring collection.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What music is included in the performance?

The Cathedral’s Lay Clerks and Choral Scholars sing Vespers for Christmas, followed by the Choristers performing Benjamin Britten’s Ceremony of Carols.

Who performs the Ceremony of Carols?

The young boy and girl Choristers sing, accompanied on the harp by Richard Allen.

How does seating work?

Seating is unreserved.

How long does the performance last?

The performance lasts 60 minutes.

Is there a collection?

The performance is free, with a retiring collection.

More Christmas Events near Durham

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Nov 4, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team