Auckland Gardens

About:

Auckland Gardens is a beautifully restored historical landscape in Bishop Auckland, County Durham, and a central attraction within The Auckland Project. Spanning 10 acres, the gardens surround Auckland Palace and sit adjacent to the 150-acre Deer Park. The grounds were originally designed for the powerful Prince Bishops of Durham, dating back hundreds of years, and were historically notable for their pioneering horticultural techniques, including the use of heated walls and glass hothouses to grow flowers, vegetables, fruit, and even pineapples.

The gardens have undergone meticulous restoration to recapture their former glory and are maintained by The Auckland Project, a regeneration charity, earning multiple Gold awards in the Northumbria in Bloom Awards.

• The 17th-century Walled Garden has been fully restored and is highly productive, growing fresh produce—from soft fruits to root vegetables—used in the on-site cafes and restaurants, with surplus donated to local food banks. This area includes a Victorian-inspired glasshouse. Note that the Walled Garden is not yet wheelchair accessible, although the Castle and Galleries are.

  The Paradise Garden is a centerpiece featuring a striking cross-shaped water feature, which encourages children to enjoy duck racing.
• The Wilderness garden celebrates untamed natural beauty, providing views of spring bulbs, wild flowers, and autumn leaves.
• Other spaces include the newly introduced Faith Garden, the Bowling Green for relaxation, and the North Terrace, which provides beautiful, expansive views across the Wear Valley.

The grounds are approached via the Broadwalk, the grand path leading towards the Castle, Walled Garden, and Deer Park. Access to Auckland Gardens is available as part of a multi-attraction ticket, and weekly guided tours are offered.