Set beside the grand gates of the Auckland Palace, the historic residence of the bishops of Durham, this pretty cottage?is a relaxing base from which to enjoy the area’s attractions. 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 through its fenced front garden into a hallway. The living room lies to the left, where warm Indian Yellow walls and comfy furnishings create a welcoming space to unwind, elevated by prints gifted to the Auckland Palace by the late artist Sarah Churchill, after whom the cottage is named. The kitchen and dining area are situated at the opposite side of the cottage, where cornflower blue walls are complemented by blue and white ceramics in a Welsh dresser. The contemporary kitchen is joined by a large farmhouse table, perfect for gathering for a slow brunch before a day spent exploring. A patio with garden seating is situated to the rear of the cottage, so you can take your coffee outside and enjoy the sun on warmer days.
The bedrooms can be found on the second floor, accessed up the central staircase. The first is decorated in a colour palette of lavender and cream and features a super king size bed which can also be configured as twins, as well as an ensuite bathroom next door. A handy WC lies off the central landing, while the second bedroom is situated opposite. Here you’ll find another super king size bed which can be configured as twins, striped textiles, and views of the historic gates and clock tower above. This room also benefits from an ensuite bathroom, complete with a separate petite bath and shower.
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
Sitting room with three-seater sofa, three armchairs, Smart TV and a decorative fireplace.
Kitchen with electric hob and oven, microwave, dishwasher, kettle, toaster, fridge/freezer, washing machine and Welsh Dresser. Dining table and seating for six guests.
Pantry cupboard with shelving.
FIRST FLOOR
Staircase to the first floor.
Bedroom one with super king double bed that can be configured as twins upon request, beside tables, chest of drawers, hanging hooks, Decorative fireplace and three-seater sofa. View to the Market Place.
En-suite bathroom with shower cubicle, WC, basin and heated towel rail.
Bedroom two with super king double bed that can be configured as twins upon request, beside tables, chest of drawers, hanging hooks and three-seater sofa. View to the Clock Tower.
En-suite bathroom with shower cubicle, 3/4 length bath, WC, basin and heated towel rail.
Cloakroom with WC and basin.
OUTSIDE
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 of the entrance door.
ADDITIONAL ACCOMMODATION
For guests looking to holiday together, there are three other properties under the same ownership - Bishop Lightfoot Cottage sleeping 6, Garden Palace Cottage sleeping 6, and The Clarence sleeping 8.
Bishop Lightfoot Cottage and Churchill Cottage sit next to each other, while Garden Palace 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.
