Auckland Palace's hidden discoveries step into view

A County Durham regeneration charity is bringing years of archaeological discovery into the public eye.

The Auckland Project has launched an archaeology ‘open lab’ in Bishop Auckland, allowing members of the public to watch experts analyse artefacts uncovered during eight years of excavations at Auckland Palace. 

Based at Hearth (formerly Mrs M’s) on Bishop Auckland Market Place, the temporary laboratory places post-excavation work in full view, offering a rare insight into how archaeological discoveries are studied and recorded.

The initiative follows one of the most extensive archaeological programmes ever undertaken at the former palace, carried out in partnership with Durham University. 

Professor Chris Gerrard, from Durham University’s Department of Archaeology, said: “Rather than only seeing objects in display cases, this exposes the process behind discovery. 

“It’s hands-on and accessible. 

“We hope it inspires people to learn more about archaeology — and perhaps get involved themselves.”

Since 2018, more than 1000 volunteers, students and early-career archaeologists have taken part, significantly reshaping understanding of one of the most important medieval bishop’s palaces in Western Europe.

Excavations revealed substantial palace structures, including walls, towers and gatehouses linked to the Prince Bishops of Durham, alongside a two-storey chapel dating back to around 1300 and a later 17th-century mansion. 

Thousands of objects were recovered across the site, ranging from everyday pottery and building materials to rare and internationally sourced items, highlighting the wealth and influence once associated with Auckland Palace.

With excavations now complete, archaeologists face the task of analysing more than 300 boxes of finds, a process expected to take up to two years. 

The open lab will run for at least a year, offering visitors opportunities to handle artefacts, assist with recording and hear directly from the team as discoveries continue to emerge.

Dr John Castling, archaeology curator at The Auckland Project, added: “This work usually happens out of sight, but we wanted to open it up. 

“People can drop in, see what we’re working on that day and build a picture of how archaeology really works — whether that’s sorting pottery one week or analysing glass the next.”

To find out more, see here.

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