Filming Prior Castells Clock in Durham Cathedral
May 28, 2025
Filming Prior Castells Clock in Durham Cathedral has been one of the most fascinating projects I’ve worked on as a documentary filmmaker and videographer based in Newcastle.
Nestled high on the north wall of the cathedral, Prior Castell’s Clock is an exquisite example of medieval craftsmanship and a remarkable piece of heritage that continues to inspire curiosity and admiration.
In this post, I’m sharing insights into the history of this unique timepiece and my experience capturing its story on film for a new promotional project at Durham Cathedral.
A Medieval Masterpiece with a Rich History
Commissioned around 1494 by Prior Thomas Castell, the clock originally featured painted angels and astronomical dials, reflecting both the spiritual symbolism and scientific curiosity of the medieval period. While much of its inner workings have been replaced over the centuries, the clock’s striking painted canopy and turret—topped by a golden sun—still command attention today. It stands as a visual and historical anchor in a building that has stood for nearly a thousand years.
One of the clock’s most remarkable stories dates back to the 1650s, when Scottish prisoners of war were held inside Durham Cathedral. Desperate for warmth, they burned much of the cathedral’s wooden interior. Yet they spared Prior Castell’s Clock because it featured a thistle, a symbol of Scotland. It’s these kinds of details that connect heritage objects to broader social and political histories.
Filming in a Historic Space
Durham Cathedral, a masterpiece of Norman architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was built in the late 11th century to house the shrine of St Cuthbert. Over centuries, it has remained a centre for pilgrimage, worship, and scholarship.
Filming within such an iconic space requires sensitivity and respect. The cathedral’s architecture creates an atmosphere of stillness and reverence. Each echo and every shaft of light filtering through stone tracery feels significant. As a filmmaker, my aim is to capture this atmosphere while working discreetly and preserving the sanctity of the space.
My Approach as a Filmmaker
My approach to filmmaking is collaborative and focused on storytelling. I strive to capture not only the visual beauty of places like Durham Cathedral but also the stories, textures, and human connections that bring heritage sites to life.
I’ve worked on projects for organisations including the BBC, Channel 4, Adobe, The Baltic, and Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums. Whether it’s for broadcast, online platforms, or gallery installations, I’m committed to transforming complex subjects into engaging visual narratives.
Translating Stillness Into Film
Filming Prior Castell’s Clock presented a creative challenge: how to translate the stillness of stone and the slow passage of time into cinematic imagery.
For this shoot, I used minimal equipment and relied on natural light to maintain an authentic feel. Slow camera movements and close-up shots helped reveal the intricate details of the clock and the grandeur of the cathedral’s architecture. My goal was to let the clock speak for itself, telling a silent story of centuries gone by.
Looking Ahead
This footage will become part of Durham Cathedral’s ongoing mission to reach new audiences and share the depth of its heritage with the world. As part of this project, we’ve been gathering footage not just of Prior Castell’s Clock, but also from around the cathedral grounds, including areas and architectural details that many visitors never get to see.
While capturing the beauty of the cathedral itself is important, the most crucial aspect of this work is filming the people who dedicate their time and passion to the cathedral—the staff and volunteers who keep its history alive and ensure it remains a place of welcome and inspiration. Their stories and perspectives are vital in revealing the human side of such a significant historic site.
It’s an honour to contribute to preserving and celebrating the stories that make places like Durham Cathedral so special. I look forward to seeing how this footage will be used to engage people both locally and around the world, helping them discover the artistry, history, and quiet grandeur of this remarkable building.
If you’d like to explore more of my work in arts, heritage, and documentary filmmaking, take a look at my films portfolio.
— Alan Fentiman, Filmmaker & Videographer