For centuries, Bishop Auckland was where the Prince Bishops of Durham came home. Today this County Durham market town is going through a remarkable revival, with historic buildings brought back to life and new galleries and museums drawing visitors from across the country.
The Bishop Auckland colouring book from Britain in Lines celebrates both sides of the town: its deep history and its bright new chapter.
About Bishop Auckland
Sitting above the River Wear, Bishop Auckland grew up around Auckland Castle, the country residence of the Bishops of Durham for around 900 years. The bishops' influence shaped the town's market place, its parkland and its sense of importance well beyond its size.
The town also has strong roots in coal mining, and the story of the Durham coalfield is woven through its streets and its art. In recent years, a major regeneration project has opened a cluster of new attractions around the Market Place, making Bishop Auckland one of the most interesting heritage destinations in the North East.
Bishop Auckland landmarks to colour
Auckland Tower
A striking modern addition to the Market Place, Auckland Tower is the visitor welcome point for the town's attractions, and its viewing platform offers sweeping views over the castle and surrounding countryside.
The Faith Museum
Set within the Auckland Castle site, the Faith Museum explores thousands of years of faith in Britain, housed in a building that blends historic stonework with contemporary design.
The Mining Art Gallery
Dedicated to art made by those who worked in the mines, the Mining Art Gallery tells the story of the Durham coalfield through the eyes of the people who lived it. It's a powerful reminder of the community that built the town.
The Market Building and Market Place
The heart of the town, where historic civic buildings frame a wide, open square. Strong shapes, tall windows and stone detailing make it a satisfying scene to colour.
Witton Castle
Just outside the town, Witton Castle adds a dose of medieval drama, with its battlements and towers set against the Durham countryside.
Why Bishop Auckland makes a great colouring book
Few towns mix the medieval and the modern quite so neatly. Old stone walls sit next to sleek new architecture, which gives you plenty of variety from page to page: rich textures one moment, clean lines the next.
Inside the Bishop Auckland colouring book
You'll find 20 hand-drawn illustrations of the town's landmarks, heritage sites and local details, all with open, uncluttered line work that's relaxing to colour. The book is printed in the UK on thick 160gsm paper, wire-bound to lie flat, with a soft-touch cover, for £16.99.
It also comes as part of the County Durham Collection alongside our Durham colouring book, for £24.99.
A gift for anyone who loves Bishop Auckland
Whether it's someone who grew up in the town, a family with mining roots, or a friend who has fallen for the new galleries, this book is a thoughtful way to celebrate a place that matters to them. 10% of every sale goes to Martin House Children's Hospice.
