Auckland Palace earns double awards nod

A County Durham visitor attraction has been shortlisted for two regional awards in recognition of its tourism offer and contribution to regeneration.

Auckland Palace and Gardens in Bishop Auckland is a finalist in the Large Visitor Attraction of the Year and Regenerative Tourism categories at the North East England Tourism Awards 2026.

Operated by regeneration charity The Auckland Project, the historic attraction has been recognised for both its visitor experience and its role in supporting the wider revival of Bishop Auckland through culture, heritage and tourism.

The annual awards celebrate excellence, innovation and best practice across the visitor economy in County Durham, Northumberland and Tyne & Wear.

Auckland Palace served as the principal country residence of the Prince Bishops of Durham for more than 800 years and today features restored Georgian Gothic state rooms, St Peter’s Chapel and Francisco de Zurbarán’s paintings of Jacob and His Twelve Sons.

Its grounds encompass a 150-acre Deer Park and ten acres of restored gardens, including the 17th-century Walled Garden, Faith Garden, Paradise Garden and Wilderness Garden.

Produce grown on the estate is used across The Auckland Project’s hospitality venues, with surplus harvests donated to local charities and foodbanks.

The wider destination also includes the Faith Museum, Spanish Gallery, Mining Art Gallery, Auckland Tower, Weardale Railway and Binchester Roman Fort.

Vic Cunningham, head of visitor experience at The Auckland Project, said: “We’re incredibly proud to see Auckland Palace and Gardens shortlisted in two categories at the North East England Tourism Awards, recognising the difference we make for visitors and for Bishop Auckland.

“Being recognised for both our visitor experience and regenerative tourism is particularly special. 

“Everything we do is about giving people a memorable reason to visit Bishop Auckland while ensuring tourism brings lasting benefits to the town and its community.

“This recognition also reflects the passion and hard work of our staff and volunteers, who make visitors feel welcome and help bring the remarkable stories of Auckland Palace and Bishop Auckland to life every day.”

The North East England Tourism Awards are delivered in partnership with VisitEngland, with eligible Gold winners progressing to the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence.

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