Staying in Teesdale and wondering how to make the most of your time? Here is our guide to some of the best things to do near Barnard Castle.
Barnard Castle is one of those places that has a habit of surprising people. Sitting in the western corner of County Durham, in the valley of the River Tees, it is a proper market town with real history, a world-class museum and a growing reputation for excellent independent food and shopping. If you are staying nearby in Teesdale, it deserves at least a full day of your time.
Here is our guide to making the most of a weekend on its doorstep.
Visit the Castle
Barnard Castle takes its name from the impressive medieval fortress that sits dramatically above the River Tees, and a visit is a wonderful way to start your trip. Built in the 12th century by the Balliol family, the castle is now managed by English Heritage and is open to visitors throughout the year. Allow an hour or two to explore the ruins and take in the views down the gorge.
Spend a Morning at the Bowes Museum
The Bowes Museum is one of the great surprises of the north of England. Housed in a magnificent French chateau in the centre of Barnard Castle, it was built in the 19th century by John and Josephine Bowes to house their remarkable collection of European art and decorative objects. The collection is genuinely world-class, and the famous mechanical silver swan, an 18th-century automaton that still performs at set times each day, is worth the visit alone. We would suggest allowing at least two hours, and the cafe is excellent.
Walk the River Tees
The River Tees flows through Barnard Castle in dramatic fashion, cutting through a deep, wooded gorge below the town. A lovely riverside path follows the water and connects to longer walks upstream, towards the ruins of Egglestone Abbey and beyond. The gorge is particularly beautiful in autumn, and in spring the wildflowers along the banks are a real treat.
Explore the Town
It is well worth taking some time to wander around the town itself. The old Market Cross in the centre is a good place to start, and from there the main street is lined with independent shops, galleries, delis and cafes that reward a leisurely explore. The food scene in Barnard Castle has really come on in recent years, and there are some very good options for lunch or dinner.
Take a Drive to High Force
From Barnard Castle, a 30-minute drive up the valley brings you to High Force, England’s most powerful waterfall and one of Teesdale’s most spectacular sights. The River Tees drops 21 metres over a dramatic dolerite sill, and after heavy rain it is a truly breathtaking sight. It is a short, easy walk from the car park to the viewpoint, and for those who would like a longer outing, the walk from Low Force to High Force along the Pennine Way is a wonderful couple of hours.
Visit Romaldkirk Village
Just a few minutes north of Barnard Castle on the B6277, the beautiful village of Romaldkirk is well worth a detour. Widely regarded as one of England’s prettiest villages, with a 12th-century church, a traditional village green and the lovely Rose and Crown pub, it has a charm that is very hard to resist.
It is also, of course, the home of The Stables at Romaldkirk Hall, one of Teesdale’s finest places to stay for a luxury self-catering getaway in County Durham.
Where to Stay
For a luxury self-catering break near Barnard Castle, The Stables at Romaldkirk Hall is the perfect choice. Set in the beautiful village of Romaldkirk, just 6 miles from Barnard Castle, The Stables sleeps up to 6 guests across 3 en-suite bedrooms and offers a wonderful base for exploring everything that Teesdale has to offer. Book direct at rkstables.co.uk, with no booking fees or third-party charges.
Getting Here
Barnard Castle is easily accessible via the A66 from the east and the west. The nearest train station is Darlington, and Newcastle and Tees Valley airports are both within easy reach.
