Talks & Tours

Wednesday 7 October 2026.  Come and get involved at Ushaw, through our volunteer and community events programme! Looking for something to fill your spare time? Come and be part of our wonderful community by volunteering at Ushaw. Find out more about volunteering and get to take part in engaging activities, including a tour of Ushaw’s magnificent chapels, a walk through our wonderful gardens, opportunities to talk with our friendly and welcoming volunteer team, delve into Ushaw’s history with our heritage team and get crafty with our engagement team. The day will also involve Book and Textile Conservation and Volunteering with the Visitor Engagement Team, as well as being a place where any questions about volunteering can be asked. Including free teas, coffees and light refreshments.

Select dates monthly.  Explore Ushaw’s literary heritage in this captivating 90-minute experience. Enjoy special access to the magnificent Big Library, a breathtaking space designed by Joseph Hansom, followed by a curated viewing of up to 20 fascinating books and archival treasures.  You’ll discover pieces rarely seen by the public, each with its own story to tell. This is a unique opportunity to explore Ushaw’s hidden treasures, ask questions, and savour the atmosphere — ideal for anyone with a passion for history, architecture or the written word. Please note: due to the historic nature of the building, the Big Library is reached via 40 wide, shallow steps. We are actively working to improve accessibility across all areas of Ushaw Libraries and appreciate your understanding.

Every Thursday to Sunday at 1:30pm. Come and discover Ushaw, enjoy stories of our rich history and heritage. Explore our breath-taking Pugin designed Chapels and beautiful function rooms with one of our experienced and knowledgeable guides. Free with Membership or Day Pass. Tours have a duration of approx. 1 – 2 hours (dependent on visitor interactivity)

Select dates.  Step into Ushaw and experience The Conversation Room – a programme of inspiring and thought-provoking sessions designed to spark curiosity, invite reflection, and ignite meaningful discussion. Bringing together voices from a wide range of fields, these gatherings explore architecture, history, religion, wellbeing, and more – all within the beautifully atmospheric setting of the Francis Thompson Room at Ushaw. Each session is hosted by a guest contributor and encourages open minds and thoughtful exchange. Tues 13 October, 5:30pm - Extraterrestrials What would happen if we discovered intelligent life beyond Earth? And, perhaps more importantly, would they be eligible for baptism? Join us for a fascinating edition of The Conversation Room as we explore the big questions surrounding faith, science and the possibility of extraterrestrial life. Featuring Br Guy Consolmagno, Emeritus Director of the Vatican Observatory, we’ll explore what the discovery of alien life might mean for humanity, religion and our understanding of creation. Expect a lively conversation, big questions and plenty of food for thought. Pay as you wish for the Conversation Room