Bishop Auckland

Bishop Auckland: A Historic Market Town with Cultural Heritage

Nestled in the heart of County Durham, Bishop Auckland is a historic market town known for its stunning castle, rich heritage, and vibrant arts scene. With a history dating back to the Anglo-Saxon era, this town is a hidden gem offering historic attractions, beautiful countryside, and cultural experiences.

Whether you’re looking for historic landmarks, scenic walks, or a taste of local heritage, Bishop Auckland provides a memorable and unique getaway.

Why Visit Bishop Auckland?

Bishop Auckland is a town steeped in history, offering:

Auckland Castle – A stunning medieval castle with royal and religious significance.
The Spanish Gallery & The Auckland Project – A vibrant cultural and artistic hub.
Kynren: An Epic Tale of England – A spectacular outdoor show, bringing history to life.
Countryside Walks & Nature Reserves – Enjoy the River Wear, woodlands, and rolling hills.

Step Back in Time: Historic Attractions in Bishop Auckland

Auckland Castle & Deer Park

Once home to the Prince Bishops of Durham, this stunning medieval castle is one of the most important historic buildings in the North East. Visitors can explore:

The Bishops’ State Rooms, featuring stunning paintings by Francisco de Zurbarán.
The 13th-century chapel, a masterpiece of medieval architecture.
The Deer Park, with beautiful walking trails and panoramic countryside views.

📍 Location: Bishop Auckland, County Durham
🕒 Opening Hours: Open year-round (check The Auckland Project for seasonal changes)
🎟️ Entry Fee: Ticketed entry, discounts available

The Spanish Gallery

Part of The Auckland Project, this gallery is the UK’s first museum dedicated to Spanish art, showcasing:

Masterpieces by Francisco de Zurbarán and El Greco.
Exhibits on Spain’s influence on British culture.
A unique opportunity to see world-class art in a historic setting.

📍 Location: Market Place, Bishop Auckland
🎟️ Entry Fee: Ticketed entry

Kynren – An Epic Tale of England

One of the UK’s most spectacular live-action shows, Kynren brings 2,000 years of history to life through:

Battle reenactments, pyrotechnics, and special effects.
A cast of 1,000+ performers, telling the story of England’s past.
An open-air amphitheatre, set against a stunning historic backdrop.

📍 Location: Flatts Farm, Bishop Auckland
🕒 Season: Summer performances (dates vary)
🎟️ Entry Fee: Ticketed event

Explore the Great Outdoors: Things to Do in Bishop Auckland

Bishop Auckland Heritage Walk

A scenic self-guided walk through the town’s historic streets, featuring:

Auckland Castle, Market Place, and the Town Hall.
Hidden heritage sites, including medieval ruins and 19th-century architecture.
Local cafés and independent shops along the way.

🚶 Distance: 2-3 miles

Eleven Arches & The Auckland Way Railway Path

A tranquil countryside walk along the old railway line, perfect for:

Cycling, walking, and horse riding.
Scenic views of the Wear Valley and open countryside.
Wildlife spotting, including deer, birds, and butterflies.

📍 Location: Bishop Auckland to Spennymoor
🚶 Distance: 9 miles (walk or cycle)

Weardale & Hamsterley Forest

Located just a short drive away, Weardale offers:

Rolling hills and picturesque landscapes.
Hamsterley Forest, a popular spot for hiking, cycling, and family-friendly trails.
Scenic drives through the Durham Dales.

📍 Location: County Durham, 10 miles from Bishop Auckland

Where to Eat and Drink in Bishop Auckland

The Auckland Tower Café

A relaxed café with panoramic views, offering locally sourced Northumberland produce.
☕ Best For: Coffee and light lunches with a view.

The Bishop’s Table

A fine-dining restaurant located in Auckland Castle, serving seasonal British cuisine.
🥂 Best For: A special occasion or elegant dining experience.

The Stanley Jefferson

A traditional pub in the heart of Bishop Auckland, known for its great atmosphere and classic British dishes.
🍻 Best For: A laid-back pint and hearty meal.

Independent Shops & Local Finds

Bishop Auckland Market

A weekly market in the historic Market Place, selling:

Fresh produce, artisan food, and handmade crafts.
Antiques, books, and unique gifts.
Locally produced cheese, meats, and baked goods.

📍 Location: Market Place, Bishop Auckland
🕒 Market Days: Thursdays & Saturdays

Day Trips & Nearby Attractions

Bishop Auckland is an ideal base for exploring County Durham’s top attractions:

Durham City (12 miles) – Visit the UNESCO-listed Durham Cathedral and Castle.
Barnard Castle (15 miles) – A historic market town with a stunning riverside castle and The Bowes Museum.
Raby Castle (14 miles) – One of England’s finest medieval castles, set in a beautiful deer park.
High Force Waterfall (25 miles) – One of England’s most spectacular waterfalls, located in Teesdale.

Plan Your Trip to Bishop Auckland

Best Time to Visit

Bishop Auckland is a fantastic year-round destination:

Spring & Summer – Ideal for outdoor walks, heritage tours, and cultural events.
Autumn – A stunning time to visit, with golden landscapes and crisp countryside air.
Winter – Perfect for a cosy historical escape, with festive events and warm pub evenings.

Where to Stay in Bishop Auckland

From luxury hotels to quaint countryside retreats, Bishop Auckland offers a variety of places to stay:

Historic Guesthouses – Stay in a traditional inn with period charm.
Boutique B&Bs – Enjoy a warm Northumberland welcome in a characterful B&B.
Countryside Lodges & Cottages – A perfect base for exploring the Durham Dales.

Book Your Stay in Bishop Auckland

Whether you’re looking for a history-filled retreat, a cultural experience, or a scenic countryside escape, Bishop Auckland is the perfect getaway.

📞 Need help booking your stay? Contact us:
📩 Email: [email protected]
📍 Phone: 0191 359 2406