Accessibility
We want as many people as possible to experience this wonderful part of the world.
If you would like to talk to us about your specific requirements before visiting, please get in touch.
Many of our attractions have been redeveloped for maximum accessibility. The Castle, Mining Art Gallery and Spanish Gallery are all accessible to wheelchairs.
Unfortunately, the Walled Garden is not accessible to wheelchair users.
Our facilities
Accessible parking
Parking is located at North Bondgate car park in the heart of Bishop Auckland and a five-minute walk from the castle. The route from the car park to the castle is flat and well maintained.
Accessible lifts
Auckland Castle, Auckland Tower, Spanish Gallery and the Mining Art Gallery have accessible lifts so that visitors can access each floor.
Accessible toilets
Accessible toilets are located in each of our venues. You can find public toilets at Auckland Tower, which are also fully accessible.
Assistance dogs
Assistance dogs are welcome in our venues.
Induction loops
A hearing loop is available at the Welcome Desk in the Mining Art Gallery, Spanish Gallery and Auckland Tower.
Deer Park
As development work is still happening around Auckland Castle, the Deer Park access route along the Broadwalk is not considered accessible, although a pedestrian route is kept open during daylight hours. We would recommend a motorised wheelchair for the Deer Park itself because of the terrain and change in levels. While the park has uneven ground, it is not too hilly or challenging.
Once construction is complete, the walkway through the Clock Tower will not include cobbles, which will make the Broadwalk accessible for those with limited mobility.
Wheelchair hire
We have a small number of manual wheelchairs available for use around our site. If you would like to discuss your requirements, please get in touch.
Carer tickets
A complimentary ticket for a personal assistant/essential carer is available for visitors with disabilities.
Accessibility at Weardale Railway
Weardale Railway is a heritage railway between Bishop Auckland and Eastgate, with train services currently operating between Stanhope Station and Wolsingham Station.
Specific accessibility guidelines apply to Weardale Railway due to the nature of the attraction. Please read on for further information.
Station Accessibility
Stanhope Station is accessible and offers level access for wheelchair users. There is tactile paving on the platform, but please note there is no hearing loop system on site.
There are 20 parking spaces at Stanhope Station, two of which are reserved for Blue Badge holders. Car parking spaces for Blue Badge holders are also available at Frosterley and Wolsingham stations.
Accessible toilet facilities are available at Stanhope station.
Train Accessibility
While we strive to make our stations as accessible as possible, Weardale Railway is a heritage railway and access to the carriage itself is limited with regards to accessibility.
A ramp is available for wheelchair access and egress to the train at all stations along the route, and our staff are always happy to help. Wheelchair users with some mobility can stow their wheelchair in the guard compartment of the carriage and take a seat within the main seating area of the carriage.
Wheelchair users who remain in their wheelchair would not be able to sit within the main seating areas of the carriage due to the historical makeup of compartments and restricted access. However, they would be able to sit within the guard compartment of the carriage for the duration of the journey.
Carers
Carers travel for free when accompanying a ticket-holder with accessibility needs. If you require support from a Carer during your visit, please contact [email protected]
