The Bishop’s Kitchen, a refurbished Tudor kitchen at the heart of Auckland Palace in Bishop Auckland, has launched its new menu for 2025 – featuring homemade dishes using locally sourced ingredients, including eggs benedict, artisan beef and ale pie, and a ploughman’s picnic sharing board.
Originally an undercroft of Bishop Antony Bek’s Great Chamber (now Throne Room), built in the 1300s, the space was transformed into a bustling kitchen in the late 15th Century by Bishop Richard Fox.
In addition to the food offerings, visitors can build their own hamper from the Bishop’s Kitchen farm shop – stocked with locally sourced cheese, chutneys, breads and meats.
The developments coincide with the appointment of Simon Wright as the new director of food and beverage at The Auckland Project. With more than 25 years’ experience in the hospitality industry, Simon has worked with the likes of Cunard Cruises, Cairn Group, Disney Cruise Line, and The Waterfalls Group. He will also oversee the 38-bedroom Park Head Hotel’s Oak Room restaurant and the El Castillo tapas restaurant.
“I’m delighted to join The Auckland Project at such an exciting time, not only for the project but for the residents of Bishop Auckland and beyond,” said Simon. “At the Bishop’s Kitchen, guests can enjoy dining in the medieval kitchen or our courtyard garden, where they can sample a delicious selection of dishes – from soups, sandwiches and salads to cakes and savoury treats to delight locals and visitors alike, enhancing their time at the historic Auckland Palace. Our focus throughout our attractions is on quality produce grown within the palace grounds or sourced locally from our network of suppliers, all prepared by our in-house catering team to enhance the visitor experience.”
David Land, CEO of The Auckland Project, added: “We are thrilled to welcome Simon to The Auckland Project. His breadth of knowledge and expertise will transform our approach to hospitality, ensuring that the quality of food and drinks served in our venues matches the superb quality of our visitor attractions, highlighted by our newly unveiled Bishop’s Kitchen menu.”
