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The Auckland Project’s Young Archaeologist’s Club is a fantastic place to learn about the past, to develop your interest and archaeological skills, and to meet new friends who love archaeology too.

The club runs monthly on the second Saturday of the month from 10:00–12:00 for ages 7 to 11 (Primary School age) and 13:00-15:00 for ages 11 to 16 (Secondary School age) at No.42 Bishop Auckland Market Place.  

Membership of our group includes membership of the wider Council for British Archaeology Young Archaeologists’ Club, and our members are entitled to a YAC Pass, which grants special offers and discounts at certain museums and heritage places (see https://www.yac-uk.org/places-to-go for more details).

We explore an archaeological concept or site each session, usually involving making or sharing something alongside discovering something. In the past we’ve looked at how to tell the age of buildings, Romans forts, Roman coins, and stratigraphy on archaeology sites, pottery, Anglo-Saxon burials, and Medieval Castles – as well as doing some digging on live archaeological excavations at Auckland Palace, which everyone loves!

Are you wanting to pre-book for the whole term? Multiple sessions can be booked in one order by adding each session separately to the order.

The Auckland Project’s Young Archaeologist’s Club is a fantastic place to learn about the past, to develop your interest and archaeological skills, and to meet new friends who love archaeology too.

The club runs monthly on the second Saturday of the month from 10:00–12:00 for ages 7 to 11 (Primary School age) and 13:00-15:00 for ages 11 to 16 (Secondary School age) at No.42 Bishop Auckland Market Place.  

Membership of our group includes membership of the wider Council for British Archaeology Young Archaeologists’ Club, and our members are entitled to a YAC Pass, which grants special offers and discounts at certain museums and heritage places (see https://www.yac-uk.org/places-to-go for more details).

We explore an archaeological concept or site each session, usually involving making or sharing something alongside discovering something. In the past we’ve looked at how to tell the age of buildings, Romans forts, Roman coins, and stratigraphy on archaeology sites, pottery, Anglo-Saxon burials, and Medieval Castles – as well as doing some digging on live archaeological excavations at Auckland Palace, which everyone loves!

Are you wanting to pre-book for the whole term? Multiple sessions can be booked in one order by adding each session separately to the order.

Meet Anthony Bek: Crusader, Knight, Prince Bishop and King in the North. Join his ranks for an interactive outdoor session, hone your battle skills and find out what life was like in Medieval Auckland.

Learn the joust, swordplay, and archery to graduate through the ranks and be knighted on the steps of Auckland Palace!

Recommended for ages 5-11

Booking is Required.

Each week young artists get together to learn new techniques, discover the works of great artists throughout history, and create their own pieces of art.

Suitable for all abilities - Booking required

Step into the world of Spanish masterpieces with our Drawing in the Galleries series. Set against the backdrop of the Spanish Golden Age, these sessions invite you to explore iconic works of art through sketching. Led by professional artist Jilly Johnston, you'll learn techniques in tone, composition, and realism—all within the inspiring setting of The Spanish Gallery. Whether you're picking up a pencil for the first time or honing your skills, this is your chance to connect with great art in a whole new way.

Hearth Summer School for ages 7-11 (school years 3 - 6)

Tuesday 19th – Friday 22nd August

10am – 4pm 

Four days of hands-on heritage fun! From storytelling to outdoor adventures, join professional, artists, historians, performers and makers to explore the past, connect with the present, and imagine the future. Activities take place across all of our sites and include creative workshops, games, and plenty of time outdoors. 

Choose from the following ticket options:

Option 1: £35 for the first child / £20 additional sibling (for all 4 days)  

Option 2: £10 per child  (for all 4 days) 

(Option 2 is for families who might otherwise be unable to take part. No proof of earning is required. Please choose the option that feels right for your situation – it’s completely confidential, and every child will receive the same experience.)

All tickets cover the full summer school and free lunch is provided daily for each child. 

Booking essential. 

This activity is a spark in a wider programme of people, place, and possibility, brought to you by Hearth – in partnership with the Auckland Project. Thanks to generous external support, Hearth events are heavily subsidised or free to attend. For more information visit facebook.com/HearthBishopAuckland   

Join us for an inspiring life drawing class rooted in the classical tradition. This session focuses on capturing the human form with accuracy and expression, using time-honoured techniques to build a strong foundation in proportion, anatomy, tone, and composition. Guided by an experienced tutor, you’ll develop essential observational skills and explore the subtleties of light and shadow to create lifelike drawings. Perfect for artists looking to refine their practice or deepen their understanding of classical realism.

Join Ukrainian artist Roksolana Hrydzhuk for a creative, family-friendly workshop where you’ll design your own stained glass-style coaster using vibrant glass paints. Inspired by Bishop Auckland’s heritage, choose from unique templates including the Auckland Tower, miner’s symbols, and floral motifs.

Booking required. All ages welcome. Materials provided.