JUNE BALL 2016

University College was founded in 1832 by Bishop Van Mildert and became England’s third University. University College is based within an 11th Century Castle which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Norman Chapel contains the earliest representation of a mermaid in the world. The Castle was one of the first places to be assigned World Heritage status, along with the Taj Mahal and Palace of Versailles. 

 

University College is the most prestigious college within Durham University, and is affectionately known as Castle by its occupants. Only one in 27 applicants are offered a place to study within this flagship college. Within six months of graduating 87% of Durham students secure employment in the most competitive and demanding sectors, due to the strong presence of graduate recruiters on campus throughout the year.  

 

This year on June 21st we will be holding our annual June Ball. Hosting 900 undergraduates, postgraduates and teaching staff, this 12-hour white-tie event has a budget of £100,000 and is the highlight of the University social calendar. The June Ball is the culmination of many years of hard academic study and is a Castle tradition. The theme remains a closely guarded secret until guests arrive on the night. Previous themes have included ‘All the World's a Stage’, ‘The Zodiac’ and ‘A Midsummer Night's Dream’. 

 

Commencing the night is a champagne drinks reception, when the eagerly anticipated theme is finally revealed. Guests then begin a four course meal  situated in the stunning surroundings of Palace Green, located directly between the greatest Norman building in England - Durham Cathedral - and the Castle. After dinner the fireworks’ display greets guests entering the courtyard, after which they explore the ball, losing themselves amongst the grounds, halls, corridors, chapels and various magnificently themed rooms of the Castle with entertainment, food and drink in abundance. The night culminates with a survivors’ photograph and champagne breakfast in the Great Hall.