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Auckland Castle and its collection

Auckland Castle
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Set within 200 acres of beautiful parkland above the River Wear, Auckland Castle has been home to the Bishop of Durham for over 900 years. After the Norman Conquest, the Bishop of Durham was granted exceptional powers to act as a political and military leader. As England’s one and only Prince-Bishop, he was the second most powerful man in the country and effectively ruled the area between the Tyne and the Tees. The Castle is now home to many important works of art, most notably the paintings of Jacob and his Twelve Sons by Spanish master Fransisco da Zurbarán (1598-1664).

Art & Design Art & Design Castle Historic house Religion Medieval art & Early Renaissance art Renaissance art & Early modern art Garden & Park

#166 Art & Design in England #73 Castle in England #129 Gardens & parks in England #34 Medieval art & Early Renaissance art museums in England #46 Religion museums in England #23 Renaissance art & Early modern art museums in England #113 Castle in United Kingdom #145 Gardens & parks in United Kingdom #45 Medieval art & Early Renaissance art museums in United Kingdom #57 Religion museums in United Kingdom #29 Renaissance art & Early modern art museums in United Kingdom

#166 Art & Design in England #73 Castle in England #129 Gardens & parks in England #34 Medieval art & Early Renaissance art museums in England #46 Religion museums in England #23 Renaissance art & Early modern art museums in England #113 Castle in United Kingdom #145 Gardens & parks in United Kingdom #45 Medieval art & Early Renaissance art museums in United Kingdom #57 Religion museums in United Kingdom #29 Renaissance art & Early modern art museums in United Kingdom

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Auckland Castle
Market Place

Images of Auckland Castle

Visitor information Auckland Castle

Opening hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday
10:30 – 16:00
Thursday
10:30 – 16:00
Friday
10:30 – 16:00
Saturday
10:30 – 16:00
Sunday
10:30 – 16:00
More opening hours

Admission

5 – 15£7.00
16+£14.00
Family (1 adult, 4 children)£21.00
Family (2 adults, 4 children)£35.00
More ticket prices

Facilities

Wheelchair accessible
Museum shop
Coffee

Location & Map

Market Place, Bishop Auckland

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Auckland Castle have been found.

Auckland Castle Reviews

Auckland Castle has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    Auckland Castle, located in Bishop Auckland, England, is a historically significant site that offers visitors a blend of art, history, and architectural beauty. The castle, which served as the residence for the Prince Bishops of Durham for over 900 years, has been transformed into a museum and visitor attraction.

    The castle's main draw is its impressive collection of artwork, particularly the series of paintings known as the Zurbarán paintings. These 17th-century masterpieces depict Jacob and his twelve sons and are considered one of the highlights of the visit. Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to view these important works in their historical context.

    The castle itself is a point of interest, with its grand state rooms and medieval architecture providing insight into the lives of the powerful Prince Bishops. The recently restored Long Dining Room, with its ornate ceiling and period furnishings, is frequently mentioned as a standout feature.

    The grounds of Auckland Castle are also noteworthy, with beautiful gardens and parklands that offer pleasant walks and picturesque views. The Deer Park, in particular, is often cited as a tranquil space for visitors to enjoy.

    While many visitors find the castle and its exhibits engaging, some have noted that certain areas of the castle are still undergoing restoration, which can limit access to some parts of the building. Additionally, a few visitors have mentioned that more detailed information about the exhibits would enhance the experience.

    The Faith Museum, a recent addition to the Auckland Castle complex, has received mixed reviews. While some find it informative and well-presented, others feel it could benefit from more interactive elements or a broader focus.

    Overall, Auckland Castle provides a rich historical experience with its blend of art, architecture, and landscape. It's generally well-regarded for its cultural significance and the quality of its main exhibits, though there is room for improvement in some areas of presentation and visitor information.

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