Auckland Castle

Auckland Palace (formerly known as Auckland Castle) is one of the best-preserved bishop’s palaces in the whole of Europe and is at the centre of The Auckland Project, a visitor destination located in the market town of Bishop Auckland, County Durham. Auckland Palace reopened to the public in 2019 after major conservation work, allowing visitors to explore this fascinating heritage attraction. Admire the remarkable restoration, which has transformed its state rooms to their original Georgian Gothic splendour, as designed by the renowned English architect James Wyatt.

Auckland Palace tells a relatively unknown story about the men who embodied power, religion, and fighting prowess for centuries, playing a vital role not only in the North of England but across the country. The story of the Bishop of Durham spans almost 1,000 years of history.

Discover, perhaps for the first time, the fascinating history of the men who helped shape the country we live in today. Walk in the footsteps of the Prince Bishops of Durham, from the sacred heart of Auckland Palace in St Peter's Chapel—widely acknowledged as one of the largest private chapels in Europe—following the 18th-century processional route through the State Rooms to the private apartments, where the Bishops lived with their families. Along the way, visitors can learn more about these powerful figures and their role in British history, with items on display from The Auckland Project's collection and pieces on loan.

The Auckland Project captures the imagination, centred in and around 900-year-old Auckland Palace, home to the mighty Prince Bishops of Durham. The project also includes a Spanish Gallery, the Faith Museum, the Mining Art Gallery, Auckland Tower visitor centre, the re-imagined Walled Garden, and the Deer Park—recently restored to highlight the site's historic landscapes.

Visit www.aucklandproject.org to stay updated on venue openings, exhibitions, events, and activities happening throughout the year.