A quiet place to come and relax

Enjoy a fantastic day out at the charming Auckland Castle Deer House.

Open all year round, this Gothic Revival building is a true masterpiece to look at.

Once a feeding site for deer and a picnic spot for the Bishop of Durham and his visitors, there are 150 acres in total to stroll around as the tall trees around you sway in the breeze.

The beautiful surroundings will make you realise why Richard Trevor, Bishop of Durham chose this spot to create this unusual place in 1760.

While he was taking a break from hunting, the amazing view was a key reason for building this eye-catching folly, besides giving the deer shelter and food.

Hunting was such a significant element of life for the aristocracy and royalty.

You'll notice how important this place was to him when you see how perfectly the stones are laid with the marvellous parapet all around.

Continue exploring within the castle walls

Keep the adventure going as you make your way to the tremendous Auckland Castle, also known as Auckland Palace.

It's easy to get to the castle from the park - there are accessible paths around the deer park for wheelchairs and buggies.

Breathe in the aroma of the sweet flowers around you when you take a seat on one of the wooden benches along the way.

Inside the castle

You'll have to pay to enter the castle but once you're in, you can spend the whole day here.

Discover the 1000-year history of the place and the bishops who lived here.

They wielded plenty of power and could even raise an army, create their own laws, and mint their own coins!

The smell of cake will draw your attention to the Bishop's Kitchen and we know you'll be tempted when you see the delicious treats on offer.

Choose from hot soup, sandwiches, and other mouthwatering delicacies or tuck into afternoon tea made with ingredients grown on these grounds, or sourced from local suppliers.

You can either sit in the medieval kitchen or in the dog-friendly courtyard garden to enjoy a spot of sunshine.

We know a day here at Auckland Castle Deer House will be a memorable one for all the family.