NEHL - Though cricket has been played in Bishop Auckland was played long before 1853, this is the date given to the formation of Bishop Auckland CC. They informally played on stretches of the field in its first decade, relocating along the field wherever was most suitable to play. Eventually they remained in the spot which still remains next to the King James School.

A grand stand and pavilion original stood on the north and south ends respectively. Both have been demolished in favour of larger complexes presumably associated with the school.

Bishop Auckland CC left this ground in 1908, obtaining a 999 year lease to play at Kingsway, their present ground.

A contemporary newspaper piece from 1875 shoes the ground was used for Rugby on at least one occasion. The match was between Northumberland and Barnard Castle and had a large attendance - Northumberland won the match with 3 goals and one try to nothing.

Kingsway was also the home of Bishop Auckland Football Club until their move out of the town centre.