The Auckland Project | Days Out North East England

Discover Auckland Castle, Galleries and Gardens

Welcome to The Auckland Project, a unique collection of heritage attractions, galleries, gardens and parkland in Bishop Auckland, County Durham.

Our attractions tell the remarkable story of Bishop Auckland. The story is one of faith, art and power, from the Prince Bishops of Durham to Bishop Auckland's surprising connection with the Golden Age of Spanish art.

Opening Times

Wednesday – Sunday, 10.30am – 4pm

Plan Your Visit

About The Auckland Project

We are a regeneration charity with a difference. Working together with the people of Bishop Auckland, we are using art, culture and heritage to fuel long-term change and build a brighter future for our town. By visiting our attractions, you will become part of this story. Thank you.

Our Attractions

Auckland Castle

Auckland Castle is one of the best-preserved Bishop’s palaces in the whole of Europe – home for a thousand years to England’s only Prince Bishops. Nowadays you can make yourself at home in this unique palace and see one of the finest sets of Zurbarán paintings in the world.

Spanish Gallery

A first for the UK, this gallery is dedicated to Spanish Golden Age art, setting the scene for the Zurbarán masterpieces that have hung in Auckland Castle for over 250 years. With exhibitions spread over four floors, you can immerse yourself in the curious world of Spanish art.

Mining Art Gallery

The intimate and awe-inspiring art collection in The Mining Art Gallery gives a unique insight into the lives and souls of coal miners and their communities in the North East, showing how human creativity and spirit can shine even in the darkest places.

Auckland Tower

Begin your day at Auckland Tower, where you can purchase tickets for our attractions, learn more about history of Bishop Auckland and The Auckland Project, and enjoy far-reaching views across the town.

Walled Garden

The Gardens surrounding Auckland Castle are also being restored to their former glory. The lower part of the 17^th-century Walled Garden is now blooming and ready to welcome visitors, and you can sample the food grown here in our cafes and restaurants.

Deer Park

Auckland Castle sits at the heart of 150 acres of historic parkland, created over 800 years ago by the Prince Bishops of Durham as their own private hunting ground. Today, the parkland enjoys free entry throughout the year and is a haven for wildlife, with over 100 veteran trees.

Faith Museum

Telling a big story in a small space; the first museum in England to explore the history of faith. Opening in 2023.

Weardale Railway

18 miles of heritage engineering, which is part of the Stockton to Darlington line, famous for having the first passenger rail service in the world.

More to Explore

Binchester Roman Fort

Walk in the footsteps of soldiers as you explore these exceptionally well-preserved Roman remains on the outskirts of Bishop Auckland.

Kynren

Travel through time and watch England come to life in this spectacular, live action outdoor show, presented by our sister charity Eleven Arches.

Eat, Shop & Stay

Make the most of your day out by picking up a unique gift in one of our shops or enjoying delicious, home grown food in the Bishop's Kitchen and El Castillo.