The Clarence

Situated on a quiet street in County Durham’s historic town of Bishop Auckland, The Clarence is an ideal base from which to enjoy the area’s attractions. Whether you’d like to delve into the Palace’s impressive collection of Spanish paintings, sample the popular food festival in the spring, or tackle the walking trails in the Durham Dales, it’s perfect for a gathering of friends or family.

Enter the house through its arched front door, flanked by original iron lamps, and step into the airy hallway. You’ll find the open-plan kitchen and dining room to the left, where the large wooden dining table, dark granite countertops, and a kitchen island with bar seating create the perfect space to socialise. Bay windows look out to the garden and fill the room with natural light, amplified by the sunny Indian Yellow walls and high ceilings which make the space feel simultaneously grand and inviting. A large utility room is situated next door, benefitting from lots of storage space, a WC, and an alternative entrance which is perfect for reacclimatising muddy dogs after a walk.

Across the hall, the living room at the rear of the house enjoys the same bay windows and garden views. Decorated in a stylish lichen green with teal painted floorboards, comfy sofas, and a decorative open fireplace, it’s a relaxing place to unwind with a coffee. Next door, the snug features a stylish mid-century sideboard and contrasting yellow painted floorboards, perfect for finding a little solitude in a good book or enjoying a board game at the table set beside the window.

Head upstairs past the patterned stained-glass window to the landing. The first of four bedrooms lies to the left and is home to super king size bed which can also be configured as twins. A dressing room is situated next door – equally handy as a private reading nook – beyond which you’ll find the ensuite bathroom with a rainforest shower. The elegant second bedroom lies on the opposite side of the hall, also home to a super king size bed which can be configured as twins, antique furniture and original artworks, as well a statement yellow velvet chesterfield sofa. Next door, the ensuite bathroom features a shower cubicle.

The third bedroom features another super king size bed which can also be configured as twins, as well as floor to ceiling bookshelves and an antique dressing table which looks out onto the garden. Next door, the ensuite bathroom features a shower cubicle. The fourth bedroom, a cosy children’s hideaway, is situated in the centre of the landing and is home to bunk beds and more garden views. Finally, the roomy family bathroom boasts another rainforest shower, Jack and Jill sinks, and a contemporary freestanding bath so you can indulge in a little spa-like luxury.

Outside, the expansive garden gently falls away from the house in tiers of patios and lawns. Children and dogs will love stretching their legs beneath the branches of the tall tree, while the barbecue area with garden seating is sure to be a favourite during the summer. If you can tear yourself away from this wonderful house, there’s plenty to keep you occupied for days out. In addition to all the attractions of the Auckland Project, the stunning landscapes of Weardale and Teesdale in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty are just a short drive away, while the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Durham’s castle and cathedral is a must-see for history enthusiasts.

ADDITIONAL ACCOMMODATION

For guests looking to holiday together, there are three other properties under the same ownership - Bishop Lightfoot Cottage sleeping 6, Bishop Trevor Cottage sleeping 6, Churchill Cottage sleeping 4, and The Clarence sleeping 8.
Bishop Lightfoot Cottage and Churchill Cottage sit next to each other, while Trevor Cottage sit opposite. The Clarance 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.