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See Queen Mother’s private apartment at Walmer Castle
Walmer Castle & Gardens in Kent has opened the private apartment of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Port for the first time.
Groups visiting Auckland Castle are set to be dazzled with what’s said to be the longest light tunnel in the country and the largest Christmas tree in the north.
Taking place from 22nd November until 31st December, AGLOW is a one-and-a-half-mile long light trail through the ancient castle grounds which is located in Bishop Auckland, County Durham. It takes in the Deer Park, River Gaunless and a specially created Santa’s Village.
Organisers say that groups will see Auckland Castle in a whole new light, with projections on the castle walls and glowing spheres of light covering the bowling green. The trail also includes 17 light installations, plus neon ropes, mirror balls and LED vines.
James Cundall, organiser of AGLOW, said: “The incredible landscape at Auckland Castle lends itself brilliantly to a light trail of this scale.
“We have been able to encompass so many different features, from projections on the castle walls to fountains in the river, not to mention illuminating so many of the ancient and wonderful trees in the park, in a variety of ways and the full spectrum of colours.
“The castle and parkland provide a perfect palette for AGLOW and will give families and friends an unforgettable festive experience.”
Towering over Santa’s Village will be a giant redwood or Wellingtonia tree beside the river, covered with almost one kilometre of colourful lights - at 32 metres/104 feet high the tree claims the title of tallest Christmas tree in the north.
The wooden cabins of Santa’s Village offer a further choice of festive food and drinks.
Why visit The Auckland Project with your group?
The Auckland Project, a collection of heritage attractions which includes Auckland Castle, offers groups a number of visits to consider in one day, including the Spanish Gallery, Faith Museum and Mining Art Gallery.
Benefits for groups visiting The Auckland Project are discounted tickets for parties of ten people or more, one free driver ticket per coach or minibus, and one free familiarisation trip for the group organiser.
After visiting the Auckland Project in the day, groups can then enjoy AGLOW, with entry times for the trail at 30-minute intervals from 4.30pm – 8.30pm each day. Visitors should allow at least 90 minutes to complete the trail.
Special packages can be arranged with the help of the Group Visits Team, which can also include overnight accommodation in Park Head Hotel, with 38 en-suite hotel rooms including singles, twins and doubles.
For more information about groups visiting Auckland Castle and the attractions within the Auckland Project go to aucklandproject.org/plan-a-visit/group-visits.
More details about AGLOW can be found by clicking here.
