Review: A Truly Magical Visit – The Auckland Project makes for a memorable family getaway ☆☆☆☆☆

For centuries, Bishop Auckland thrived as a bustling market town, and now, thanks to the vision and dedication of The Auckland Project, it is reclaiming its place on the map as a vibrant cultural destination. This incredible regeneration charity has breathed new life into the town through a stunning collection of arts, heritage, and cultural experiences that both educate and inspire. Every visit supports their wider mission of community engagement and economic revitalisation – and the results are nothing short of amazing.

Auckland Palace – A Walk Through Living History

Towering above the River Wear, Auckland Palace is a masterpiece of faith and history. Once the powerful seat of the Prince Bishops of Durham, this grand estate now welcomes visitors into a beautifully restored space that feels both majestic and deeply personal. Since its reopening in 2019, every corner of the Palace has been carefully returned to its former glory. We danced through the Throne Room, opened drawers in the Bishop’s Study, and admired the incredible attention to detail in every piece of furniture and textile.

A highlight of our visit was the Faith Museum, which opened in October 2023. This stunning new addition explores 6,000 years of spiritual history in a way that’s as moving as it is informative. It’s a serene, immersive space – and to our delight, it completely enchanted our children! It’s a rare gift to find a museum that captivates every generation of the family.

Through these immersive experiences, Auckland Palace tells a story of power, faith, and national influence that deepens your appreciation for the legacy of the Prince Bishops and their role in shaping British history.

We visited over Easter, and the project had laid on an Easter Egg hunt and some brilliant activities in the grounds. And what grounds they are – a beautiful walled garden, fantastic dog walks, a beautiful flowing river… it’s a Deer Park which is simply beautiful. We visited several times across three days, as the kids couldn’t get enough of it!

There’s also an exceptional cafe with indoor and outdoor seating and just outside of the palace grounds, a magnificent tower from which you can look out across Bishop’s Auckland. It has a gift shop and gallery as well and is definitely worth a visit.

Across the road from this, a stunning looking Tapas restaurant (we are definitely visiting that next time!) and an extremely impressive Spanish Gallery. Find out more about that, here: Spanish Gallery | The Auckland Project

Churchill Cottage – A Cosy home that our kids didn’t want to leave

As part of our stay, we spent a few nights in Churchill Cottage, one of several charming self-catering options offered by The Auckland Project. What a gem! The cottage was absolutely spotless, beautifully decorated, and wonderfully cosy. From the moment we stepped in, we felt at home. Incredibly, it’s literally just a few metres from the magnificent entrance to the Palace grounds.

Every room was thoughtfully designed with both comfort and character – the Master Bedroom was luxurious and peaceful, with a heavenly bed we sank into at the end of the day. Our kids adored their room, and even our little dog settled in right away.

The living area was warm and welcoming, ideal for family games or curling up with a book (there were plenty to choose from), while the kitchen was perfectly equipped for everything from breakfast to late-night treats. We truly didn’t want to leave!

You can explore the cottages – or book your own dream stay – by visiting https://www.britainsfinest.co.uk/selfcatering/aucklandprojectholidaycottages.

Minimum stay 3 nights

Sleeps 4 adults (two large superking bedrooms)
Check-in 3pm-6pm / Check-out by 10am
Dogs welcome for an additional charge (up to 2)

Limited time offer s

All guests benefit from a Bishop’s Key pass (worth up to £30 per guest), 10% discount in The Auckland Project’s restaurants and gift shops, after-hours access to the Walled Garden until 10pm, and free and private off-street parking.

Perfectly Placed for Adventure

Bishop Auckland is wonderfully located – only 18 minutes from the historic city of Durham, and just over an hour from York, making it a great base for exploring the North of England. But honestly? There’s so much to see and do at The Auckland Project itself, you may prefer to just take it all in.

An exceptional and memorable family getaway

The Auckland Project is not just a destination – it’s an experience, a mission, and a celebration of heritage, all rolled into one. Whether you’re visiting for the history, the hospitality, or the heart, you’ll leave feeling uplifted and inspired. Our kids were so captivated and loved every moment. We can’t wait to return.

Booking is via britainsfinest.co.uk – https://www.britainsfinest.co.uk/selfcatering/aucklandprojectholidaycottages