Bishop Aukland

The historic market town of Bishop Auckland in County Durham stands high above the River Wear, with spectacular views of the beautiful surrounding countryside. The Bishops of Durham played a large part in the early history of Bishop Auckland; establishing a hunting lodge that later became the main residence of the Bishop of Durham. The area is rich with historic sites and within a mile of the town are the remains of the Binchester Roman Fort. At Escomb you will find the restored 7th Century Escomb Saxon Church; one of the finest examples of early Christian architecture in Northern Europe.

At the heart of Bishop Auckland is its Market Place and Town Hall that are still the hubs of activity, with a refurbished library and arts complex. Bishop Auckland has over 200 shops and over 50 eateries and pubs for visitors to enjoy and if you are looking for independent, specialist shops, venture over to the south end of Newgate Street and Fore Bondgate. Nearby Auckland Castle is a magnificent structure; once the official country residence of the Prince Bishops and still the official home of the Bishop of Durham, it offers an incredible journey through history and is surrounded by the Bishop's Deer Park.