First Look: Bishop Auckland’s AGLOW Lights Up For Festive Season

The first visitors to Auckland Palace’s illuminated outdoor trail ALGOW were dazzled by the new installations as the popular spectacle returns to Bishop Auckland for 2024.

An updated route and five glittering new light displays illuminated the picturesque parkland, as well as the new indoor event Christmas at the Palace, wowed crowds during its preview night on Thursday 21st November.

Jared Bowers, chief operating officer at The Auckland Project, said:
“The preview night was a glowing success, and we can’t wait to welcome more friends and families to share in the festive joy of AGLOW and Christmas at the Palace. Last year was super popular and with the new route and light installations this year, AGLOW 2024 is even more exciting.”

Features returning this November and December include one of the tallest Christmas trees in the North of England standing at an impressive 30 metres and everybody’s favourite ‘Tunnel of Light’ which is one of the longest outdoor light tunnels in England measuring over 100 metres. Inspiring grand, romantic gestures, it was the setting for two festive proposals during AGLOW last year.

Five new installations have been added to the updated route for 2024 including ‘River of Light’, featuring a trail of cascading lights which shimmer seamlessly into the River Gaunless. More features inspired by Auckland Palace’s grounds include illuminated sculptures to mimic woodland flora and fauna.

This year visitors to ‘Santa’s Village’ will be able to see elves hard at work in their workshop, post their letter to Santa Claus in the post office and watch Santa and the elves in a special performance. Guests will also be able to enjoy festive games, and a range of food and beverage outlets serving mulled wine, hot chocolate and festive snacks too.

After the success of AGLOW in 2023, The Auckland Project has added to the yuletide experience this year by introducing the new Christmas at the Palace event which opened on Friday 15th November and runs until Tuesday 31st December.

The historic Prince Bishops’ palace, one of the best preserved in Europe, has been transformed with tasteful decorations adorning 12 rooms. Opulent jewel tones, russet autumnal hues and icy white décor will inspire visitors over the season as they wander through the State Rooms, St Peter’s Chapel, The Long Dining Room and the Bishop’s Apartment.

Christmas at the Palace’s awe-inspiring decorations and nativity scene is a fantastic addition to The Auckland Project’s Christmas events line up and will put a visit to Bishop Auckland on the top of many people’s Christmas wish lists.

A combination ticket for AGLOW at Auckland Palace and Christmas at the Palace is available from £33.50 for adults, £22 for children and £96.50 for a family (either 2 adults, 2 children or 1 adult, 3 children).

Ticket prices for AGLOW are £21.75 for adults, £14.75 for children and £68 for a family (either 2 adults, 2 children or 1 adult, 3 children). Book via the website: www.aucklandaglow.org

Ticket prices for ‘Christmas at the Palace’ are £20 for adults, £12.50 for children and £52.50 for a family (either 2 adults, 2 children or 1 adult, 3 children), or free with an Unlimited Pass. Book via the website: www.aucklandproject.org/event/christmas-at-the-palace/