Treasure Troves

A French-style château on the edge of a market town, a splendid collection of Spanish art housed in a former commercial bank and so much more makes Durham full of surprises as you discover stunning landscapes dotted with cultural treasures.

Auckland Castle with 900 years of historic connections with England’s only Prince Bishops – granted exceptional powers by Norman kings - is home to paintings by 17th century Spanish master painter Francisco de Zurbaran. The
castle is also home to Europe’s largest private chapel and its State Rooms provide some of the finest Georgian Gothic architecture in the country*.

The entire castle, its grounds and the adjacent town centre of Bishop Auckland are currently being re-developed to create a heritage destination of distinction with international importance. The restoration and building work is set to continue with a new Welcome Centre, fully-restored walled gardens and a new Faith museum which will be the first in England to explore the history of faith in Britain set to open in the coming year.

As you enter through the grandest of gates, the sight of The Bowes Museum is something to behold. A building as impressive as the exhibits within, the story behind the museum is just as fascinating. Built in the 19th century by husband and wife John and Josephine Bowes to house their own collection, themed galleries are home to one of the most important collections of fine and decorative arts in the North of England.

Did you know…

Schedule your visit to The Bowes Museum to coincide with the 2pm daily performance of the famous 18th century mechanical wonder which is the Silver Swan..

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Tour suggestions…

Half day:
The Bowes Museum

Full day:
Auckland Castle plus
The Bowes Museum

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Hotel suggestions…

Park Head Country Hotel.

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Useful information…

Coach travelling time:
The Bowes Museum to
Auckland Castle -
25 minutes

SatNav:
The Bowes Museum DL12 8NP

Auckland Castle DL14 7NR

Park Head Hotel DL14 8QB

*Auckland Castle is currently closed
whilst exciting developments take place
with the re-opening scheduled for
summer 2018. For more information see
aucklandcastle.org.