The Auckland Project

31/08/2026

A little reminder!
 
We’re officially switching back to our Wednesday through Sunday schedule starting tomorrow. Mark your calendars, save this post, and come visit us from 10am–4pm, Wed–Sun.
 
Also, you can plan your day trip now and see how much you can pack into 24 hours! Save 40% on your ultimate day trip and unlock all of these amazing places in one visit with a Discovery Day Pass!
 
 

29/08/2026

🌿 “A divine garden in a former coal-mining town.”

We’re delighted to see The Auckland Project featured in today’s Financial Times , as acclaimed gardening writer Robin Lane Fox visits Auckland Palace and its gardens.

“Historical spectacle and harmonious drifts of flowers and foliage bring a longstanding project in County Durham to fruition.”

The article explores the transformation of our historic gardens, the vision of Jonathan and Jane Ruffer and landscape designer Pip Morrison, and the wider purpose at the heart of The Auckland Project – creating opportunities, pride and a lasting legacy for Bishop Auckland.

A wonderful spotlight on our gardens, our town and a project more than a decade in the making.

🗞️ Read the full article here: https://www.ft.com/content/11c7f12f-e838-44b1-8843-49c218dbb424?syn-25a6b1a6=1

28/08/2026

📣 We’re hiring!

We’re looking for a friendly, organised and enthusiastic Visitor Experience Administration Assistant to join The Auckland Project.
This varied role sits at the heart of our Visitor Experience team, supporting everything from group and corporate bookings to major events such as AGLOW, while helping us deliver an excellent experience for everyone who visits Bishop Auckland.

📍 Bishop Auckland
⏰ Full-time, permanent
💷 National Minimum Wage
📅 Closing date: 18 September 2026

You’ll need strong organisational and customer service skills, excellent attention to detail and at least two years’ administrative experience.

In return, you’ll enjoy 30 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, pension contributions, free parking, staff discounts and free unlimited access to our attractions for you and your family, subject to restrictions.

Ready to play your part in Bishop Auckland’s future?

👉 Find out more and download an application form: https://aucklandproject.org/support-us/jobs/
Please note, we’re unable to accept CVs; applications must be made using our application form.

Jobs in heritage, history and culture. Explore the latest job opportunities available at The Auckland Project, Bishop Auckland.

28/08/2026

8 incredible things to do, 1 slightly bonkers bank holiday!

28/08/2026

Due to popular demand, we have released more tickets for the Block Animation workshop in The Artists Hub - Bishop Auckland with Sheryl Jenkins!
Well done to Joshua who created this short animation in the session yesterday.👏
Book your FREE session here: https://aucklandproject.org/event/open-art-space-block-animation/

28/08/2026

REMINDER: The bank holiday weekend at Binchester starts tomorrow!

Still finalising your plans? Don't forget to join us at Binchester Roman Fort from tomorrow for an action-packed weekend of ancient history and family fun!

Here is what's waiting for you:
🎯 Safe archery range – Try your hand at archery!
🛶 Aqueduct race – Build cork boats to race down the channel.
🎨 Mosaic crafts & ancient games – Hands-on fun for all ages.
⚔️ Roman commotion & live pottery demonstrations – Experience history in action.
🏺 Artefact display, site tours & archaeology talks – Discover and learn about incredible local Roman finds.
🍕 Palace Pizza Van – Grab a bite to eat while you explore!

🐾 Friendly reminder: We are dog-friendly, so bring your four-legged friends along to join in!

📅 Dates: 29th to 31st August
⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
📍 Location: Binchester Roman Fort

For more details regarding tickets:
https://aucklandproject.org/event/roman-reenactment-binchester-roman-fort/

26/08/2026

Have you taken a stroll in our gardens recently? Here is just a taste of what's currently in growing. Pop into Auckland Tower to grab your admission ticket and gardens map, then take your time exploring. If you're visiting on a Wednesday or Saturday, be sure to ask about our free guided tours - included with your garden admission!

26/08/2026

Final Family Friday of the summer!

Don’t miss out! This week is your last chance this summer to join us for Family Fridays at The Auckland Project.

Special activity for 28th August: Design a bishop’s seal

Discover how the powerful Prince Bishops of Durham used unique seals to authorise important documents and decrees. Then, get creative and design your very own personal bishop’s seal using symbols that represent YOU!

📅 Date: Friday, 28th August
⏰ Time: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📍 Location: Old Library, Auckland Palace

https://aucklandproject.org/event/family-activities-history-art-culture/

Image credit : Bishop Bek’s Seal, Chapter of Durham Cathedral

26/08/2026

Happy 🐾

We love welcoming dogs and their well-behaved humans for scenic strolls, tail-wagging adventures, and endless sniffs around our beautiful outdoor spaces. Here we have some lovely girls that we met on the broadwalk last week!

Got any cute dog snaps from your recent visit? Pop them in the comments, we'd love to see them!

25/08/2026

Happening tomorrow!