A characterful and dog-friendly cottage beside the gates of the historic Auckland Palace.
Formerly two cottages lying either side of the grand gates of the Auckland Palace which have since been combined into one, this historic retreat is a relaxing base from which to enjoy the area’s attractions. Named after one of the bishops of Durham who resided at the Palace in the nineteenth century, its traditional exterior belies the colourful and contemporary space to be discovered inside. With the Palace’s impressive castle, museums and restaurants on your doorstep, as well as their exciting calendar of events and activities, it’s the perfect spot for a varied retreat with friends or family.
Enter the cottage into its spacious inner hallway, with the kitchen lying directly opposite. With a useful foldout table and a door leading to the small courtyard and private parking area at the rear of the cottage, it has everything you need to cook with ease during your stay. The cosy living room is situated to the right of the cottage, complete with plump sofas and characterful original artworks. At the opposite side of the central hallway you’ll find the formal dining room with views out to the Palace gates, as well as a handy downstairs WC.
All three bedrooms are situated upstairs, branching off a spacious landing and each home to king size beds. The first can also be configured as twins and enjoys an ensuite bathroom. Equally inviting, the second and third bedrooms are imbued with personality through more unique artworks and antique furnishings. These bedrooms are served by the family bathroom which is decorated with patterned wallpaper and features a bath with a shower overhead.
An area of rich history and beautiful landscapes, there’s plenty to keep you occupied in County Durham. In addition to all the attractions of the Auckland Project, look forward to days spent on the trails in Weardale and Teesdale in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, or get immersed in the storied pasts of Raby Castle or the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Durham’s castle and cathedral, both of which are just a short drive away.
GROUND FLOOR
Entrance hallway with coat stand.
Sitting room with three-seater sofa, two-seater sofa and two armchairs, Smart TV, board games and a decorative fireplace.
Dining room with dining table and seating for six guests.
Kitchen with gas hob and double oven, microwave, dishwasher, kettle, toaster, fridge/freezer and washing machine. Small breakfast table with two chairs. Door to rear courtyard area.
Cloakroom with WC and basin.
FIRST FLOOR
Staircase to the first floor.
Bedroom one with king size double bed that can be configured as twins upon request, beside tables, chest of drawers and fitted wardrobe. View to the Market Place.
En-suite bathroom with corner shower, WC, basin and heated towel rail.
Bedroom Two with king size double, beside tables, chest of drawers and wardrobe. Views to the Clock Tower.
Bedroom Three with king size double, beside tables, two chest of drawers, wardrobe and a decorative fireplace. Views through to the Faith Museum.
Family bathroom with bath with shower over, WC, basin and heated towel rail.
OUTSIDE
Small rear enclosed courtyard. The courtyard will be furnished with outdoor seating from the Spring and a BBQ is available on request.
Unloading area in front of the cottage and then secure parking in the gated courtyard 50m to the right if the entrance door. Free parking available for additional vehicles at North Bondgate Car Park 200m from the cottage.
ADDITIONAL ACCOMMODATION
For guests looking to holiday together, there are three other properties under the same ownership - Palace Garden Cottage sleeping 6, Churchill Cottage sleeping 4, and The Clarence sleeping 8.
Bishop Lightfoot Cottage and Churchill Cottage sit next to each other, while Palace Garden Cottage sits opposite. The Clarence is a 5 minute drive away or a 15 minute walk.
VISITING THE AUCKLAND PROJECT
All guests benefit from a complimentary Unlimited Pass to the estate's attractions, a 10% discount in The Auckland Project’s restaurants and the Auckland Tower Shop, and after-hours access to the Walled Garden until 10pm. Please note that the attractions are closed from New Year until February Half Term, although the Deer Park will remain open.
