Auckland Castle Trust’s pop-up museum visited Woodland Primary School to give pupils an insight into the Bishop Auckland castle which was the country residence for the Prince Bishops for more than 900 years.
Children in reception, year one and year two were given the chance to sit on a replica throne and dress up in copes and mitres similar to those which would have been worn by the bishops.
They got to hold a replica dagger and chainmail armour.
Genuine Durham Mint coins, dating as far back as 1290, were also on show for the children to see.
Class teacher Debra Fletcher said: “Our topic this term is Wonderful Woodland and we are learning about the local area and local history.
“This brings the history of the castle to life for the children. They have learned that there were no kings and queens living in the castle and that they were Prince Bishops. They have all been very enthusiastic.”
Key stage two pupils also enjoyed writing poetry relating to the castle.
The pop-up museum is being taken out into communities while the multi-million pound restoration and redevelopment work is being completed at the castle.
Education officer Debra Nichol said: “The castle is closed for restoration at the moment but we are still trying to do our educational outreach work to keep in touch with schools that used to visit the castle.
“It is about helping the children connect with culture and heritage as well as raising publicity for us.
“The children get to hold some of the artefacts which show that the Prince Bishops were warriors as well as leaders of the church.
“We have tried to make it a nice and interesting mix to give a flavour of how powerful they were.”
Auckland Castle is expected to reopen to the public in May next year.
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