Bishop Auckland is a historic market town in County Durham, situated at the confluence of the River Wear and the River Gaunless. Once the primary residence of the Bishops of Durham, the town is anchored by the impressive Auckland Castle. Its rapid growth during the Industrial Revolution, driven by coal mining, has evolved into a modern manufacturing hub. Located 12 miles from both Darlington and Durham, it offers a tranquil yet culturally rich base for travelers exploring Northern England.
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Base yourself in the town center near Auckland Castle and the river confluence. This area provides easy walking access to major attractions, dining, and retail, making it ideal for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in local history without needing constant transport.
The town is well-connected via rail, sitting just 12 miles from Darlington and Durham. This proximity allows for easy day trips to larger hubs and integration with the wider UK rail network, facilitating seamless travel for those exploring multiple destinations in the North East.
Spring and summer offer the best conditions for visiting, with pleasant weather ideal for strolling along the River Wear or exploring the gardens of Auckland Castle. These seasons maximize outdoor enjoyment, allowing guests to fully appreciate the town's scenic riverside setting and historical architecture.
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The sprawling Middleton Lodge Estate stretches out over 200 acres and today includes this creative restaurant which sits inside the forge that once served the estate. The tasting menu – which also comes in both vegetarian and vegan forms – features seasonal produce, including some grown on the Estate, where they even harvest their own honey and birch sap. The cooking demonstrates a strong grasp of balance and flavour, with dishes that allow these local ingredients to shine like the picture-perfect Reuben blackberry and pineapple weed tart.
WebsiteHidden away in a small courtyard in the centre of Durham, this warm, cheerily run restaurant is the realisation of a dream for the three friends who crowdfunded its opening. The simple, rustic décor belies the quality of the cooking found within; the set menu of modern British small plates changes seasonally and the kitchen’s skill is clearly evident in the quality of the sauces.
WebsiteIts name comes from an Old English word for ‘journey’, but there is something decidedly contemporary about this centrally located restaurant – from the airy, pared-back interior to the on-trend open kitchen and terse menu descriptions. An antique stained-glass window adds character and makes a fine backdrop for the chefs as they show their talent across colourful, precisely executed dishes that utilise punchy flavours like Sichuan pepper, onion ketchup and an intense duck jus.
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