A catalogue of Easter-themed events has been unveiled for over the long weekend in Bishop Auckland for County Durham families to enjoy. 

The Auckland Project, a Bishop Auckland attraction and regeneration charity, is hosting a series of Easter events and activities, including a new Easter Egg Hunt trail around Auckland Castle, on selected days from 29th March to 14th April.

Visitors can explore the historic gardens in search of colourful Easter eggs hidden around the grounds. 

Starting the adventure at Auckland Tower in Market Place, children must find the clues hidden in the outdoor nests, receiving a chocolate prize of their choice once the trail is completed. 

To complement the trail, The Auckland Project has entertainment lined up for families looking to get outside over the Easter weekend (March 29 – April 1), with animals to pet, performers, an Easter bunny to meet, and a selection of family crafting sessions taking place throughout the day. 

Jared Bowers, chief operating officer at The Auckland Project, said: “We’re always looking for wonderful ways we can provide entertainment for our local community, and whilst we have some historically significant attractions that are great days out for little ones, this Easter we wanted to take it to new heights by putting on our first ever Easter trail and activities. 

“The perfect opportunity to get outside in the spring air and blow off some steam, we hope families enjoy exploring the gardens that are buzzing with new life, spring bulbs and blossoming trees. After tackling the trail and exhausting the activities, why not refuel in The Bishop’s Kitchen with much of the menu sourced locally and grown in the gardens.” 

The Bishop’s Kitchen, located in the heart of Auckland Castle, will be offering a range of tempting treats including soups, sandwiches, salads and cakes to enjoy in the refurbished medieval kitchen or courtyard garden on a sunny day.  

For visitors keen to explore everything The Auckland Project has to offer, there’s also the Spanish Gallery, the Mining Art Gallery and the recently opened Faith Museum.

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Together, they tell the remarkable story of Bishop Auckland, from the powerful Prince Bishops of Durham to the town’s surprising connection to the Golden Age of Spanish Art.  

The Easter Weekend events take place from 29th March to 1st April, whilst the Easter Egg Hunt takes place from 29th March to 14th April (excluding 2nd, 8th and 9th April) from 10.30am – 3.30pm. The events are free with castle admission or The Auckland Project’s unlimited pass. 

To book tickets, check opening times or see prices, please visit www.aucklandproject.org. Due to demand, pre-booking for all Easter activities is recommended.