One of the North East’s most popular visitor attractions and historic sites has scooped a prestigious tourism award which places it in the top 10 per cent of attractions worldwide. 

Part of The Auckland Project, The Spanish Gallery and Auckland Castle, located on the main site in the heart of Bishop Auckland, have both been named Travellers’ Choice Winners by Tripadvisor, the online travel guidance platform.   

Read more: Prince Charles and Queen of Spain visit Auckland Castle

The Northern Echo:

The coveted award celebrates businesses that have consistently received great traveller reviews on Tripadvisor over the last 12 months, placing these winners among the 10 per cent of all listings on Tripadvisor globally.  

The Spanish Gallery is the UK’s first gallery dedicated to the art, history and culture of Spain, where visitors can immerse themselves in the Spanish Golden Age. While at Auckland Castle, visitors can appreciate one of the best-preserved bishops’ palaces in Europe, admire the staterooms and enjoy the serenity of the chapels. 

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The Northern Echo: The Spanish Gallery, Bishop Auckland Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT

Edward Perry, CEO of The Auckland Project said: “To be given this award is not only recognition of the popularity of the castle and gallery and their contents, but it is also much-deserved appreciation for the people who worked so hard to make them a success.

"As custodians of this special place, it’s our job to share the rich history of Bishop Auckland and bring transformative change to the people who work, live and visit here, and we feel very honoured to now be ranked among the world’s best.”