Auckland Castle

Christmas at the Palace

Dates + Times

15 November – 31 December, excluding Christmas Day. 10.30am – 4pm.

*Closed Mondays and Tuesdays until 16 December

Admission + Tickets

FREE with an Unlimited Pass

Christmas at the Palace & AGLOW combo ticket

Book now Unlimited Pass

Immerse yourself in unrivalled festive splendour when Auckland Palace opens its doors this December for a very special new Christmas event.

With 12 rooms sumptuously decorated, including the State Rooms, St Peter’s Chapel and the Bishop’s Apartment, Christmas at the Palace enables visitors to enjoy the remarkable interiors, complete with stunning artworks and furnishings, transformed with a touch of Christmas magic. Traditional decorations in winter-warming tones with a twist of golden opulence will grace the historic palace, befitting of the Prince Bishops who once ruled from this ancient seat of power.

Let this festive event’s enchanting and exquisite Christmas decorations bring a sense of wonder and delight to your festive season with the autumnal russets, burgundies and gilding of the Gentlemen’s Hall; the icy wintery whites of the Ante Room; and the array of resplendent Christmas Trees in the Throne Room, echoing the blush pinks and midnight blues of the room’s décor.

The Long Dining Room brings a feast for the eyes with golden platters of frosted fruits, sparkling crystal and plush velvet garlands, complementing the colours of the famous 13 Spanish Portraits which adorn the walls, while a magnificent peacock takes centre stage in the Blue Breakfast Room, and the Library evokes a convivial charm with its gilded books, applique birds and feather decorations.

Curated by an international designer with more than 30 years of experience in the Christmas decoration industry, Christmas at the Palace is a tour full of festive delights and is not to be missed.

FAQ’S

What is Christmas at the Palace?

Christmas at the Palace is a brand new event where the palace’s remarkable interiors will be transformed with a touch of Christmas magic, including the State Rooms, St Peter’s Chapel and the Bishop’s Apartment.

What are the dates and times?

The event will run from 15^th November to 31^st December, excluding Christmas Day and closed Mondays and Tuesdays until 16^th December.

Is there food and drink available onsite?

Yes, there will be a selection of tasty treats and drinks in our Bishop’s Kitchen café.

How long will it take to see the entire event?

We recommend allowing at least a couple of hours to visit the entire event and the Faith Museum.

What age range is Christmas at the Palace suitable for?

This event is suitable for all the family, with wonderful decorations to impress all ages.

Can I take photographs?

We would love you to take as many photographs as you like! Any shots you take and want to post on social media, please remember to tag us!

Is this event accessible?

Yes, the Palace is an accessible venue and our staff are on hand to help guide you to the relevant route.

Is parking available?

Car parking is available at North Bondgate car park and if using sat nav, the postcode is DL14 7PG. There are electric car charging points in North Bondgate car park as well

When should I arrive?

Feel free to arrive between 10:30am and 3:00pm, which will be last entry into the Palace.

Where can I buy tickets?

Tickets are available to purchase online here: https://aucklandproject.org/event/christmas-at-the-palace/

Can I buy tickets on the day?

Yes, but we strongly recommend buying tickets in advance to avoid disappointment as we have limited capacity.