University College was founded in 1832 by the Bishop Van Mildert and became England’s third University. The Castle itself first became home to students in 1837, having been donated to the University by the Bishop, and has been home to hundreds of Castlemen and women ever since. The attraction of being able to live in a nine hundred year old World Heritage Site has played a large role in making University College the most popular choice for applicants.

 

The June Ball has been a Castle tradition for many years and is always the most highly anticipated date in the College calendar. For first years it is a magical, exciting adventure as they explore the transformed castle, entering rooms they never knew existed. For finalists it is the culmination of many wonderful years in Durham; thus every year a specially selected committee devote their time to making that year's ball more spectacular than the last.

 

The theme remains shrouded in mystery and a closely guarded secret until guests arrive on the night itself. Previous themes have included 'The Zodiac', 'A Midsummer Night's Dream', 'A Night in Hollywood', 'Around the World in Eighty Days', 'Rule Britannia', and a ball featuring Greek Mythology. Ice rinks, Bailey's fountains, a ceilidh at four o'clock in the morning and swing boats in the courtyard are just some of the diverse attractions that guests have enjoyed in the past.