Diary: 13th April 2012
I love to be at Auckland Castle and there is no better
time than a sunny Friday in April with daffodils and primroses in the flower
beds. It’s truly gorgeous, and I am delighted that it’s my job to make sure
that many more people get to see it!
If you take a walk into the Deer Park today you will
notice that even though our official ownership date is not yet confirmed
(hopefully by June), work has already begun to spruce up the buildings. Work on
the restoration of the Castle Keep is already at full throttle, and other parts
of the Castle and its grounds will follow in due course.
We are thinking about our early ‘quick wins’ at the
moment, and are particularly interested in developing our ideas around the
defunct Market Garden area, and are considering getting some loos in the
grounds (thanks for the suggestion, Head Teachers!) so that they are more
child–friendly for visitors. Please email me if you have any ideas of your own
– we’re very much in the listening phase at present!
With the Food Festival just a week away, we are fully engaged with
preparations for introducing ourselves to you at this event. We would very much
like to meet you and hear your ideas about the Castle’s future, as well as
sharing our own with you. We have a special ‘scribble board’ for you to wax
creative on – no idea is too wacky, ambitious or off–the–wall. If you don’t
share it, we can’t consider it.
Latest News: All
A video interiew given by Jonathan Ruffer to The Economist in November 2012.
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The Northern Echo article from Nov 6th. “Zurbarans’ saviour Jonathan Ruffer adds old golf course to castle project”
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The Economist article from Oct 27th. “Can a museum of Christianity succeed in Britain?”
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20th July proved to be a momentous day for Auckland Castle, as it transferred, at one minute before six in the evening, into the hands of the Auckland Castle Trust.
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Things are moving along here at the Castle.
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His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales has sent his best wishes to all involved with the Auckland Castle Trust.
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This is a busy week at Auckland Castle as we get things lined up for taking full ownership of the Castle on 30th June. In three broad headings, this week sees us starting to make inroads into money, events, and gardens…
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Today sees the end of my first week as part of the team at Auckland Castle and I am still pinching myself every time I drive under the clock tower and into the forecourt of the Castle. I think I just might have the most beautiful workplace in the County!
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The Auckland Castle Trust are looking for a partner to run a wedding service. The partner that we select will be able to provide a full wedding planning service for clients. An outline briefing document is attached.
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A great day out at the Food Festival, albeit a little soggy! Great getting to know you and hearing your ideas and reminiscences
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Jonathan talks about plans for Auckland Castle
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The TV Stars will be joining members of the TasteDurham Award Scheme and other producers and food champions from across the UK at the 2012 Bishop Auckland Food Festival
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Auckland Castle is available to hire for corporate seminars, formal banquets and weddings or ceremonies.
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