Bishop Auckland Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Bishop Auckland Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Bishop Auckland packs in more history than you'd expect from a small market town. Auckland Castle (DL14 7NR, open Wed-Sun 10am-4pm) dominates the town and houses the incredible Zurbarán paintings - 13 life-sized portraits of Jacob and his sons that have hung here since 1756. TripAdvisor gives it 4.5/5 from over 500 reviews.

The Auckland Project has transformed the town centre with multiple attractions. The Mining Art Gallery (DL14 7NP, open Wed-Sun 10am-4pm) showcases powerful works by local miners who documented their harsh working lives. It scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor.

Kynren (DL14 7SF) runs summer performances that'll blow your mind - 2,000 years of English history with a cast of 1,000 volunteers, animals, pyrotechnics and special effects on a 7.5-acre outdoor stage. I've never seen anything like it in the UK.

Escomb Saxon Church (DL14 7SR) sits just outside town and dates from 670-675 AD. It's one of the oldest and most complete Saxon churches in Europe, built using stones from the nearby Roman fort at Binchester.

Pet Friendly

We've found Bishop Auckland surprisingly good for dog holidays. Auckland Park offers 200 acres of parkland where dogs can run off-lead in many areas. The deer park section requires leads, but the woodland trails are perfect for energetic pups.

After walks, head to The Auckland Project's Castle Clock Café (DL14 7NR) which welcomes dogs in their outdoor seating area. They even keep water bowls and treats behind the counter - just ask!

Fifteas Vintage Tearoom (DL14 7JG) in the town centre is another dog-friendly spot where you can grab lunch. Dogs get their own special menu including puppuccinos!

For longer walks, try the Auckland Way Railway Path - an 8-mile traffic-free route following the old railway line. Perfect if your dog needs serious exercise before returning to relax at your hot tub cottage.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Bishop Auckland

Auckland Castle and Deer Park (DL14 7NR) tops our list. This 900-year-old palace of the Prince Bishops of Durham houses the UK's only Faith Museum, stunning state rooms and a deer park with 800-year-old oaks. The walled garden has been restored to its Georgian glory. One visitor wrote: "Absolutely stunning place, the gardens are beautiful and the castle itself is fascinating. We spent 4 hours here and could have stayed longer."

Binchester Roman Fort (DL14 8DJ) sits just outside town and features the best-preserved Roman bath house in Britain. The hypocaust (underfloor heating system) survives intact and you can walk on original Roman floors from 1,800 years ago. Kids love the hands-on archaeology activities during school holidays. A recent visitor noted: "What a hidden gem! The bath house is incredible - you can still see the original plaster on the walls with Roman graffiti."

The Auckland Project's Spanish Gallery (DL14 7NP) is the UK's first museum dedicated to Spanish art. It houses masterpieces by El Greco, Murillo and others across three floors of a beautifully converted bank building. The gallery explains the fascinating connection between Bishop Auckland and Spanish art that dates back centuries. "World-class art in an unexpected location" according to one TripAdvisor review.

What's the best time to visit Bishop Auckland?

Summer brings the spectacular Kynren shows (June-September), but autumn offers gorgeous colours in Auckland Park and smaller crowds. Winter sees the town's Christmas markets and illuminations. We think September hits the sweet spot - good weather, Kynren performances and harvest festivals in the surrounding villages.

Can I get around Bishop Auckland without a car?

Yes, but with limitations. The town centre is compact and walkable. Buses connect to Durham (30 mins) and surrounding villages. Taxis are readily available for trips to more remote attractions. Having a car gives you freedom to explore the North Pennines and Durham Dales from your hot tub cottage base.

Where's the best place to eat in Bishop Auckland?

Babul's (DL14 7JG) consistently tops local restaurant rankings with authentic Indian cuisine. For traditional pub grub, try The Stanley Jefferson (DL14 7JH) - named after Stan Laurel who lived in Bishop Auckland as a child. The Auckland Project's restaurants offer high-end options using local produce.

Is Bishop Auckland suitable for children?

Absolutely! Kynren thrills kids with its spectacular show. Auckland Castle runs excellent family activities during school holidays. Nearby, Hamsterley Forest offers mountain biking, playgrounds and Gruffalo trails. Most hot tub cottages provide games and entertainment for rainy days.

What markets are worth visiting?

The traditional market runs Thursdays and Saturdays in the Market Place. The monthly Farmers' Market (last Saturday) showcases local produce. The Food Festival in April and Christmas Market in December are highlights of the town's calendar.

How far is Bishop Auckland from the coast?

The Durham Heritage Coast is about 30 minutes' drive east. Seaham Beach offers dramatic cliffs and sea glass hunting. For traditional seaside, Saltburn (45 mins) has a Victorian pier, cliff lift and great surfing. After a day at the coast, your cottage hot tub awaits!

1. The Auckland Project - Official information on all attractions
2. This is Durham - Local tourism information
3. Kynren - Tickets and performance information
4. Durham County Council - Transport and practical information