The Bishop Auckland Food Festival is one of County Durham’s biggest and most popular spring events. Taking place every April in Bishop Auckland town centre, the festival brings together talented chefs, local food producers, street-food stalls, live demonstrations and family-friendly entertainment.
The festival takes place on 18–19 April 2026. It attracts thousands of visitors every year, making it a great opportunity to explore Bishop Auckland, sample local produce and enjoy a relaxed day out with family and friends.
The Bishop Auckland Food Festival is packed with food stalls, artisan producers, desserts, craft drinks, local brewers and international street-food traders. Visitors can also enjoy chef demonstrations, live music, tasting sessions and special pop-up events around the town.
Whether you love sweet treats, classic comfort food or something new to try, there is always plenty of choice. It’s the perfect place to discover local flavours from across County Durham and the North East.
If you’re planning to visit the festival, The Barn Oakenshaw is a peaceful countryside place to stay within easy reach of Bishop Auckland. After a day exploring food stalls and festival attractions, you can relax in quiet surroundings with comfortable accommodation and scenic rural views.
Our location is ideal if you want to enjoy the festival without staying in the busy town centre. We offer private parking, self-catering facilities and a calm place to unwind.
Bishop Auckland town centre can get busy during the festival weekend, so arriving early is recommended.
Parking is available around the town, but staying nearby makes travel easier and more relaxed.
Check the official festival website for chef line-ups, map information and food stall listings.
The Bishop Auckland Food Festival is a wonderful way to enjoy spring in County Durham. Combine your festival visit with nearby attractions such as Auckland Castle, The Mining Art Gallery, Raby Castle or countryside walks around Weardale.
If you’re looking for a place to stay for the festival weekend, The Barn Oakenshaw offers a comfortable base close to Bishop Auckland with easy access to local events, walks and restaurants..
Bishop Auckland Food Festival – A celebration of Food & Drink in the North of England
✨ Weardale Railway – Santa Express ✨
Various dates throughout November & December 2025
Climb aboard the Santa Express for one of the most magical festive experiences in County Durham. The historic Weardale Railway transforms into a Christmas wonderland, offering a heart-warming adventure for families and children of all ages.
🎅 What to Expect:
🚂 A beautifully decorated vintage train filled with festive cheer
🎄 Twinkling lights, cosy carriages & Christmas music
🎁 A special visit from Santa himself as he walks through the train
🧝 Friendly elves helping with gifts, games & festive fun
📜 Each child receives a named present from Santa
📸 Plenty of magical photo opportunities
🎤 Live entertainment and storytelling throughout the journey
❄️ Scenic winter views of the Weardale countryside
The Santa Express is designed to feel like stepping straight into a Christmas storybook — a joyful, nostalgic experience perfect for making family memories.
Santa Express – Christmas Railway – 21st November to 24th December 2025
✨ Raby Castle – Enchanted Christmas Light Trail ✨
Sat 15 Nov 2025 – Sun 4 Jan 2026
Step into a world of festive magic at the Enchanted Christmas Light Trail at Raby Castle — one of County Durham’s most breath-taking winter experiences. Wander through glowing woodland paths, shimmering light installations, and beautifully illuminated castle grounds as the historic estate transforms into a sparkling wonderland for the season.
Expect a magical evening filled with:
🎄 Twinkling tunnels of light
✨ Enchanted forest scenes
🕯️ Atmospheric projections on the castle
🍭 Festive food cabins, drinks & treats
👨👩👧 A family-friendly trail perfect for all ages
📸 Stunning photo moments at every turn
Whether you’re visiting as a family, a couple, or bringing the whole group, Raby’s light trail delivers a truly unforgettable festive experience — a perfect way to start (or end!) your Christmas celebrations.
Christmas at Raby | Raby Castle | High Force | County Durham
✨ Gala Durham Pantomime – Jack and the Beanstalk ✨
20 November – 31 December 2025
Get ready for laughter, magic, and plenty of “Oh yes it is!” as the much-loved Gala Durham Pantomime returns with Jack and the Beanstalk. A cherished Christmas tradition in the North East, this spectacular show is packed with hilarious comedy, catchy songs, dazzling costumes, and unforgettable family fun.
🌱 What to Expect:
🎭 Classic panto humour — silly jokes, playful chaos, and lots of audience participation
🌟 A talented cast bringing Jack, Dame Trott, the Giant and all your favourites to life
🎶 Big musical numbers the whole family will be singing for days
✨ Impressive staging & magical effects that make the beanstalk truly spectacular
👧 A perfect festive outing for kids, parents, grandparents… everyone!
With laughter, surprises and feel-good festive energy from start to finish, the Gala Panto continues to be one of Durham’s most popular Christmas family events. Expect booing, cheering, shouting “He’s behind you!”, and leaving with your cheeks aching from smiling.
A brilliant tradition for creating Christmas memories and kicking off the holiday season with joy.
21 November – 31 December 2025
Just minutes from The Barn Oakenshaw, AGLOW transforms the historic grounds of Auckland Castle into a breathtaking illuminated winter trail. Wander through the enchanting Deer Park as thousands of sparkling lights, glowing sculptures, and magical projections turn the landscape into a Christmas wonderland.
🎄 What to Expect:
🌟 Mesmerising light installations and immersive displays
✨ A magical festive trail perfect for all ages
🏰 Stunning views of the castle illuminated under the night sky
❄️ A cosy, atmospheric walk through the Deer Park
📸 Beautiful photo spots around every corner
🎶 Seasonal music adding to the festive mood
Aglow at Auckland Palace – An illuminated Christmas light trail
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