Christmas at the Palace returns to Bishop Auckland

From November 21 to December 31, the historic Auckland Palace has been transformed into a winter wonderland.

The event features twelve State Rooms, St. Peter’s Chapel, and the Private Apartments, all dressed in stunning displays for Christmas.

First look inside Christmas at the Palace at Auckland Palace in Bishop Auckland (Image: AUCKLAND PALACE)

The Gentlemen’s Hall becomes a winter wonderland while the Ante Room fills with gift boxes and trees.

The Throne Room is lined with trees in blush pink and midnight blue, and in the Long Dining Room, golden platters, velvet garlands and crystal sit against the Zurbarán portraits.

First look inside Christmas at the Palace at Auckland Palace in Bishop Auckland (Image: AUCKLAND PALACE)

Other rooms receive their own themed displays. A peacock installation stands in the Breakfast Room. The Bishop’s Study uses gilded books, appliqué birds and autumnal decoration.

The restored medieval Bishop’s Kitchen introduces a festive menu from November 21 with soups, artisan pies, sandwiches and cakes. Festive Afternoon Tea is also served daily from 12 to 3pm with sandwiches, warm scones and sweets, and it has an option to upgrade to High Tea with Prosecco.

First look inside Christmas at the Palace at Auckland Palace in Bishop Auckland (Image: AUCKLAND PALACE)

A Festive Cheese Board also brings together local cheeses, grapes, Christmas cake, crackers and The Auckland Project’s spiced apple and pear chutney and is available in the kitchen.

The Palace’s 18th century Neapolitan Nativity scene is back this year will be on display in the Faith Museum.

The Christmas crib measures 11ft by 15ft and features more than 421 figures set in a detailed Neapolitan setting. Entry is included in the Christmas at Auckland Palace ticket and free for Bishop’s Key members.

First look inside Christmas at the Palace at Auckland Palace in Bishop Auckland (Image: AUCKLAND PALACE)

Cheryl Durkin, Head of Events and Programming at The Auckland Project, said: “Christmas at Auckland Palace is a chance to enjoy one of the region’s most historic landmarks in a whole new light.

“The decorations bring together tradition, creativity and the rich history of the Palace, offering a truly memorable festive day out for all.”

First look inside Christmas at the Palace at Auckland Palace in Bishop Auckland (Image: AUCKLAND PALACE)

First look inside Christmas at the Palace at Auckland Palace in Bishop Auckland (Image: AUCKLAND PALACE)

First look inside Christmas at the Palace at Auckland Palace in Bishop Auckland (Image: AUCKLAND PALACE)

First look inside Christmas at the Palace at Auckland Palace in Bishop Auckland (Image: AUCKLAND PALACE)

First look inside Christmas at the Palace at Auckland Palace in Bishop Auckland (Image: AUCKLAND PALACE)

First look inside Christmas at the Palace at Auckland Palace in Bishop Auckland (Image: AUCKLAND PALACE)

First look inside Christmas at the Palace at Auckland Palace in Bishop Auckland (Image: AUCKLAND PALACE)

First look inside Christmas at the Palace at Auckland Palace in Bishop Auckland (Image: AUCKLAND PALACE)

First look inside Christmas at the Palace at Auckland Palace in Bishop Auckland (Image: AUCKLAND PALACE)

First look inside Christmas at the Palace at Auckland Palace in Bishop Auckland (Image: AUCKLAND PALACE)

First look inside Christmas at the Palace at Auckland Palace in Bishop Auckland (Image: AUCKLAND PALACE)

First look inside Christmas at the Palace at Auckland Palace in Bishop Auckland (Image: AUCKLAND PALACE)

The seasonal programme runs alongside AGLOW, a 1.5 mile light trail through the grounds which opens on November 22.

It includes more than 24 illuminated installations, Santa’s Village with street food and performances and a new tipi bar in the Arrivals Court. Tickets for AGLOW start at £13.50.

Christmas at Auckland Palace will operate 10.30am to 4pm with timed entry. It is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays except December 22 and 23.

St Peter’s Chapel may be closed during services or events.