Auckland Project and Raby Caste Day Tour

Explore the Legacy of the Prince Bishops 

While the Bishop of Durham was considered one of the most powerful players in Northern England, the Nevilles were the secular lords of County Durham. In this tour, you will explore the Bishop’s Castle at Bishop Auckland and the Nevilles at Raby.

Embark on an enriching 8-hour day trip from Newcastle with Iles Tours, designed to immerse you in the fascinating history and unique heritage of the North East of England, which has been shaped for over 2,000 years.

Our first destination is the Auckland Project in Bishop Auckland. Known for the internationally acclaimed Auckland Project, you will tour both the Castle and the Faith Museum, which narrates the expansive history of Faith in the British Isles (If the history of faith is particularly interesting to you, consider booking a place on our Multi-Day Faith Tour in North East England). Here, you will step back in time as you follow the powerful Prince Bishops of Durham, who lived at Auckland Castle. 

We will have lunch at the Bishop’s Kitchen, enjoying produce grown in the walled garden – just outside the castle!

In the afternoon, we journey to the magnificent Raby Castle, Park and Gardens, one of England’s finest medieval castles. Developed over centuries by the powerful Neville and Vane families, Raby Castle has been home to people who shaped the history of England for centuries. Explore this grand castle, wander through the 18th-century Walled Garden, and discover the expansive Deer Park.

Throughout the tour, your expert Iles Tours guide will bring these amazing places to life, sharing captivating stories that illuminate the history, people, and culture of the North East.

Booking Information for Small Groups and Travel from Edinburgh

Travel from Edinburgh: We offer complimentary pickup from Alnmouth train station for all tour participants. Please note, however, that for groups of four or fewer, there is an additional surcharge of £500.00 for travel arrangements that include Edinburgh collection and drop-off.

If you are interested in taking a longer guided tour, please browse our Multi-Day History Tours in North East England.)