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A new festive experience has arrived at Auckland Palace in County Durham, marking the beginning of Christmas celebrations. The historic palace, known for its nearly 900 years of history, has been adorned with luxurious decorations, intricate details, and stunning Christmas trees.

Visitors to Christmas at the Palace will have the opportunity to explore 12 rooms that have been transformed into a winter wonderland. The State Rooms, St Peter’s Chapel, The Long Dining Room, and the Bishop’s Apartments are just some of the areas that have been beautifully decorated for the holiday season.

One of the highlights of the festive display is an 18th-century Neapolitan nativity scene, crafted in Italy and displayed at the Faith Museum. This magnificent scene, standing over 11ft tall and 15ft wide, depicts the Biblical story of Christmas with over 421 individual pieces, including the Holy Family, the three Wise Men, shepherds, angels, and more.

Jared Bowers, the chief operating officer at The Auckland Project, expressed his excitement about the transformation of Auckland Palace for the holidays. He hopes that families and friends visiting in November and December will appreciate the festive ambiance and recognize Bishop Auckland as a must-visit destination on the County Durham Christmas calendar.

In addition to the indoor Christmas experience at the Palace, visitors can also enjoy the outdoor illuminated night-time trail, AGLOW, which opens for the season on November 22. A combination ticket for both AGLOW and Christmas at the Palace is available for an immersive festive day out in Bishop Auckland.

Ticket prices for the combined experience start at £33.50 for adults, £22 for children, and £96.50 for a family. Individual ticket prices for AGLOW are £21.75 for adults, £14.75 for children, and £68 for a family, while tickets for Christmas at the Palace are £20 for adults, £12.50 for children, and £52.50 for a family. Alternatively, visitors with an unlimited pass can enjoy Christmas at the Palace for free.

To book tickets and plan your visit to Auckland Palace for the festive season, visit the official websites: www.aucklandaglow.org and www.aucklandproject.org/event/christmas-at-the-palace/. Immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas at this enchanting historical site in Bishop Auckland, Durham.