What do you think makes a stay at The Auckland Palace Heritage Holiday Cottages unique?
If you're looking for a cosy dog and child-friendly self-catering cottage you can find a perfect home-from-home in Bishop Auckland from the collection of newly renovated places to stay including the heritage holiday cottages right next to Auckland Palace or the cosy holiday cottages. Feel at home in one of the heritage holiday cottages on the Auckland Palace Estate and soak up the unique atmosphere at the heart of Bishop Auckland.
Can you suggest any activities or things to do while staying in the Bishop Auckland area?
Bishop Auckland is home to some of the finest historical attractions and art galleries in the North East, including Auckland Palace, The Spanish Gallery, and The Faith Museum. It is also a short drive from Bowes Museum, Raby Castle, and Durham Cathedral. Bishop Auckland is a lively market town where you can enjoy local restaurants, cafés, and bars. El Castillo is the Auckland Palace Tapas Restaurant and Bar just a short walk from the Auckland Palace historic houses and cosy cottages.
Guests of the Heritage Holiday Cottages receive the following during their stay:
Auckland Palace & Galleries – Britain's Finest
Auckland Palace Admission
Step inside one of Europe’s best-preserved Bishop’s palaces, once home to the powerful Prince Bishops of Durham. Wander through grand halls and historic chambers that whisper tales of influence and power.
Faith Museum Admission
Explore 6,000 years of British history through the lens of faith. This unique museum weaves together stories of belief, art, and authority, offering a fascinating perspective on the past.
Auckland Gardens Admission
Lose yourself in the beautifully landscaped gardens of Auckland Palace. From the 17th-century Walled Garden to the Wilderness Garden, Faith Garden, North Terrace, Bowling Green, and Great Garden, every corner invites you to pause, breathe, and admire.
Spanish Gallery Admission
A rare and remarkable celebration of the Spanish Golden Age, the Spanish Gallery showcases art, history, and culture in an extraordinary setting. Guided tours at 11am and 2pm.
Mining Art Gallery Admission
The North East’s mining heritage is more than history—it’s identity. This gallery brings to life the resilience, creativity, and community spirit that shaped the region, told through powerful and evocative art.
Where can guests enjoy food and drink?
Each Auckland Palace Stay has a kitchen and is self-catering. You're welcome to bring your own food and drink; there are plenty of food shops nearby. Guests will also receive a 10% discount on their meals at El Castillo Tapas bar and Oak Room Restaurant at Park Head Hotel. A short walk away is a range of local cafés, restaurants, shops and pubs. The Bishop's Kitchen, at Auckland Palace, which opened in February 2025 serves breakfast, lunch and Afternoon Tea. This stunning vaulted space was once home to the Bishop of Durham and has been transformed into an inviting atmospheric space for a morning coffee, meeting with friends or leisurely lunch.
What is the capacity for The Auckland Palace Heritage Holiday Cottages?
Auckland Palace Heritage Houses
Lightfoot Cottage - Sleeps 6
Palace Garden Cottage - Sleeps 6
Churchill Cottage - Sleeps 4
The Clarence - Sleeps 8
Auckland Palace Holiday Cottages
Sheriff's Tower Cottages, East & West - Sleeps 4
No.2 Townhouse - Sleeps 4
No.4 Townhouse - Sleeps 4
Other Information
Dog and child-friendly. Up to two dogs per stay for a small additional charge of £25 per dog, per stay.
