The 12 Zurbarán paintings were purchased by Bishop Richard Trevor in 1756 to support the cause of Jewish naturalization in Britain.
The castle grounds once housed a massive deer park spanning 800 acres.
The St. Peter’s Chapel within the palace is one of the largest private chapels in Europe.
The site features a permanent display of rare 'Mining Art' reflecting the local industrial heritage of County Durham.
Auckland Palace is currently the only place outside of Spain where a full cycle of Zurbarán's Jacob and his Twelve Sons paintings is displayed.
The throne room retains its original 18th-century neoclassical decor.
Archeological excavations on site discovered the remains of a medieval Great Hall dating back to the 13th century.
Auckland Palace, historically known as Auckland Castle, served as the residence of the Prince Bishops of Durham for over 800 years. The site features a restored 18th-century Gothic-revival exterior and opulent interiors housing a significant collection of Spanish art. The palace is the center of The Auckland Project, a multi-venue regeneration initiative in Bishop Auckland. The site includes the Faith Museum, which explores 6,000 years of human belief through diverse artifacts. Visitors can access the 17th-century Long Dining Room, famously containing twelve large-scale paintings by Francisco de Zurbarán. The grounds feature a restored Walled Garden that provides produce for the on-site restaurant. The palace architecture reflects its evolution from a defensive 12th-century fortress into a grand palatial residence. It remains one of the best-preserved episcopal palaces in Europe.
The central axis of the Walled Garden looking back toward the palace facade.
Book an advance timed slot to ensure entry to the Faith Museum, as it is separate from the main palace tour.
Allow extra time to walk through the Walled Garden, which is integrated into the site's restoration.
Check the event calendar for rotating exhibitions in the Spanish Gallery, located nearby.
Trying to see every Auckland Project venue in a single day, which leads to rushing through the art collections.
Closed on certain mid-week days during the winter season; check ahead for seasonal variations.
Photography without flash is permitted in most galleries; quiet behavior is expected in the chapel.
