Local Area Attractions

Set on a high rock above the River Tees, Barnard Castle takes its name from its 12th century founder, Bernard de Balliol. This fortress offers fantastic views over the Tees Gorge.

Purpose built in the 19th century The Bowes Museum has a nationally renowned art collection & has a wonderful story to tell.

A gentle and pretty woodland walk leads you to view this spectacular sight at the base of the falls. Where the river tees spectacularly drops 21 metres into the plunge pool below.

Built in the 14th century by the Nevill family, it has a long history, surrounded by 200 acres of lush green parkland, where herds of red & fallow deer live wild.

Flatts Woods is one of the woods of Barnard Castle, minutes from the town centre. It offers many scenic walk routes & trails to explore.

The charming ruins of a small monastery of Premonstratensian 'white canons', picturesquely set above a bend in the River Tees near Barnard Castle.

Auckland Castle is one of the best-preserved bishops’ palaces in the whole of Europe and is at the centre of The Auckland Project. Once the private home of the Prince Bishops of Durham, the castle was built as a symbol of power and authority.

The North Pennines is a stunning landscape of open heather moors and peatlands, attractive dales and hay meadows, tumbling upland rivers, wonderful woods & welcoming communities.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the everyday at County Durham’s largest forest. From wildlife watching to stargazing, and adventure play for all the family to exhilarating mountain biking, there is something to keep everyone busy.