Auckland and Durham Castles in the Eighteenth Century

Eighteenth-century modifications to Durham Castle and Auckland Castle reflected the bishops' dual aspirations for contemporary secular amenities while fulfilling episcopal requirements. The study reveals that these bishops, drawn from gentry and aristocratic families, prioritized living in residences commensurate with their social status, mirroring the architectural preferences of their lay peers. Auckland Castle emerged as the preferred residence during the bishops' stays in the Palatinate due to urban growth in Durham City, which diminished the appeal of Durham Castle. Despite this shift, Durham Castle retained its ceremonial significance as a center of episcopal power.

Pears, R. (2017). Auckland and Durham Castles in the Eighteenth Century. Princes of the Church, 304–318. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315229553-21