Discover history where it happened at Auckland Palace, one of the best-preserved Bishop’s palaces in the whole of Europe with a story spanning almost 1,000 years.

Positioned high above the meandering River Wear, Auckland Palace is a remarkable symbol of faith and power and was once the seat of the Prince Bishops of Durham. The Prince Bishops were given exceptional powers by the Norman kings of England, as well as the Church, and governed vast swathes of North East England.

Auckland Palace (formerly known as Auckland Castle) reopened in 2019 following major conservation work. The building has been restored and the original wall colourings, furniture and textiles lovingly recreated by an incredible team of restorers and conservators. Each space takes you to a different moment of time, right up to the present day. Dance around the Throne Room, rifle through drawers in the Bishop’s Study, or take a seat at the grand table in the Long Dining Room.

In October 2023, the Faith Museum opened in a newly designed wing of Auckland Palace, celebrating the spiritual heritage of this unique site and taking visitors on a journey through 6,000 years of history.

A visit to Auckland Palace can help us to appreciate the power, wealth, influence and faith of the Prince Bishops of Durham and understand the fascinating history of the men who have helped to shape the country we live in today.