Treat mum like a queen this Mother’s Day with a Royal High Tea at Auckland Palace

Steeped in 1,000 years of history, this magnificent setting was once home to the powerful Prince Bishops of Durham – and now offers the perfect backdrop for a regal celebration.

Mums and their loved ones can indulge in a delicious selection of freshly baked scones, delicate finger sandwiches, and an array of handcrafted sweet treats. The experience will be topped off with a glass of prosecco.

The menu includes savoury delights such as tuna and lemon mayonnaise, thick-sliced ham with wholegrain mustard, and vintage cheese savoury sandwiches. Classic treats include a homemade fruit scone served with Tiptree strawberry jam, Rodda’s clotted cream, and seasoned butter.

And to finish there will be sweet indulgences including zesty carrot cake, raspberry Bakewell slice, lemon drizzle cake, and a petit four plate of indulgent chocolate treats.

Set within a space rich in history, the Old Library has transformed over the centuries - from a 16th-century chamber to a servants’ hall and later, a grand library filled with theological books. Today, it welcomes guests for afternoon teas, educational visits, and special events.

Kimberley Carruthers, Events Catering Manager at The Auckland Project, said: “We are delighted to invite families to celebrate Mother’s Day in such a special and historic setting. Our Royal High Tea is a perfect way to show appreciation for the incredible mothers in our lives, offering them a little taste of luxury in a truly unique venue.”

The Royal High Tea experience will take place on Sunday, March 30 at 10:30 - 12:00, 12:30 - 14:00, and 14:30 - 16:00 in the heart of Auckland Palace. Spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended. Book here: https://aucklandproject.org/event/mothers-day-afternoon-tea/

Visitors with a Bishop’s Key Plus, can enjoy access to all of The Auckland Project’s attractions and save 10% on their booking for Mother’s Day Royal High Tea.

For just £45 per person, Bishop’s Key Plus holders enjoy exclusive perks, including early bird bookings for signature events, 10% savings on Weardale Railway Heritage Train tickets, 10% savings on food and drinks at Bishop’s Kitchen, El Castillo Tapas Restaurant and The Oak Room Restaurant at Park Head Hotel and free early or late checkout at The Park Head Hotel.

Friends of The Auckland Project can also save 10% on Mother’s Day Royal High Tea bookings.