Auckland Palace unearths centuries of history

A County Durham heritage project is uncovering the town’s medieval past through a near-completed excavation.

Durham University’s Department of Archaeology and regeneration charity The Auckland Project have spent eight years exploring the grounds of Auckland Palace, in Bishop Auckland, unearthing key parts of the Prince Bishops’ historic residence. 

Over 1000 volunteers and students have helped reveal palace walls, towers, gatehouses and the remains of a two-storey chapel built by Bishop Bek around 1300, which was the largest of its kind in Britain. 

Recent digs uncovered a 17th century house built by Parliamentarian Sir Arthur Haselrig, a prominent figure in the English Civil War, alongside rare artefacts such as gold decorations, an elephant ivory, intricate glassware and other precious items that provide a glimpse of Auckland Palace’s wealth, power and influence.

In June, the team also revealed previously unknown walls and a garderobe – a medieval toilet – next to the Great Hall where the bishops and their guests would have feasted.

Findings from the excavations are displayed at The Auckland Project’s Faith Museum, alongside the Binchester Ring, uncovered at the nearby Roman fort by Durham University in 2014, which is thought to be one of the earliest Christian artefacts found in Britain.

John Castling, archaeology curator at The Auckland Project, said: “The discoveries here range from the magnificent to the ordinary and shed light on the long and complex history of this remarkable site - from medieval bishops and their households to 17th century global upheaval. 

“All the finds have been made with the help of university students, local volunteers and young people, and deepen our knowledge of this extraordinary place and make history something everyone can experience and be part of.

“Each person who picks up a trowel here contributes not only to our understanding of the site but also helps bring its history to life for future generations.”

Professor Chris Gerrard, from Durham University’s Department of Archaeology, added: “Auckland Palace will be, as far as we are concerned, one of the best-understood bishop’s palaces in Western Europe, from an archaeological point of view.”

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