Auckland Castle
Bishop Auckland, County Durham
Average time spent – 2-4 hours.
Things to do at Auckland Castle review
Auckland Castle, otherwise known as Auckland Palace is one of the best-preserved bishop’s palaces in Europe. Located near Bishop Auckland in County Durham with a history that dates back to the 12th century.
It was previously a deer park, then the Bishop established a manor house on the site in the late 12th century. It was later converted to a castle with defensive walls added. Much was destroyed after the English civil war but the architecture of the palace was reconstructed in the 19th century. The castle reopened late 2019 as the Auckland project after a major restoration project.
The interior of the castle has been fully restored including the bishops ‘palatial’ quarters. Today you can look around the staterooms and St Peter’s chapel, one of the largest private chapels in Europe. If you climb Auckland tower you will be rewarded with a bird’s eye view across the town.
There are three galleries – The mining art gallery, a Spanish gallery and a faith museum. Outdoors you can explore the 150-acre parkland and deer park. The park today retains many of the medieval elements including the fish ponds and woodland paths. To help you get the most out of your visit there are family-friendly trails which you can collect from the Auckland tower. Work is underway to restore the walled garden and install a walled garden restaurant.
Covid 19 – Please check the website or social media of an attraction before visiting. Many places may be open differently and some remain closed. Reviews do not mention all of these changes or possible price changes. Most places now require you to pre-book online in advance.
Important Information Auckland Castle
Eating – The Bishops kitchen serves a range of hot and cold food and drinks. You are welcome to picnic outdoors.
Facilities in brief – A renovated castle with lavish interiors, deer park and parkland with medieval features and walks. There are toilets and a cafe.
Entry price – *Mid-range
*Prices are subject to change and/or discounts online. *Mid-range. Adult tickets are £12.50 and children age 5-16 are £3. This is then an annual pass which means you can return as much as you wish over the next 12 months.
Opening: Most of the facilities are open from Wednesday until Sunday. For up to date opening times and dates please follow this link.
Dog friendly? Assistance dogs are welcome, pet dogs are only permitted in the deer park.
Address: Market Pl, Bishop Auckland DL14 7NR, County Durham, England. Phone: 01388 743750
Category – Castle – Indoors and Outdoors – Suitable for all ages.
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