The Ancient Unicorn, Barnard Castle ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2025

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Key details

About the Hotel

The St, Bowes,, The Street, Barnard Castle, United Kingdom, DL12 9HL

The Ancient Unicorn is a 16th-century coaching inn located in the historic village of Bowes, near Barnard Castle. This charming establishment serves as a gateway to the stunning countryside of Teesdale and the Pennine Way. It offers guests a traditional experience with modern amenities, making it a noteworthy stop for those exploring North Yorkshire. The location is significant for its proximity to historical sites and natural beauty.

Location

The Ancient Unicorn is conveniently situated just off the A66, facilitating access for travelers. It lies approximately 5.5 km from Barnard Castle, which is renowned for its imposing ruins and market-town charm. The hotel is also a short distance from the historic Footpath along the River Tees, allowing guests to immerse themselves in scenic walks, including the iconic Pennine Way.

Rooms

The Ancient Unicorn features a range of accommodations, including newly refurbished apartments that can sleep up to eight guests. Some rooms come equipped with kitchenettes, offering facilities such as refrigerators, ovens, and microwaves. Amenities include Freeview TV, electric kettles, free Wi-Fi, and tasteful furnishings. Certain rooms are pet-friendly, though guests are advised to contact the property in advance regarding their pets.

Eat & Drink

On-site dining presents a seasonal menu highlighting home-cooked dishes, with options featuring roasted meats embellished with Yorkshire pudding and seasonal vegetables. The restaurant's focus on quality ingredients ensures a satisfying dining experience. Guests can enjoy both casual meals and more substantial fare that reflects local culinary traditions.

Leisure & Business

This establishment caters to both leisure and business needs, with flexible space available for meetings and family celebrations. Outdoor activities are abundant, with opportunities for hiking and enjoying the pristine countryside surrounding Barnard Castle. Guests can also explore local attractions, such as the nearby Bowes Museum and High Force waterfall.

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Select your room type

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Budget Triple Room

Max:

2 persons

18 m²

Bed options:

1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed

Heating

room details

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Standard Twin Room

Max:

2 persons

2 m²

Bed options:

2 Single beds

Shower

Heating

room details

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Standard Double Room

Max:

2 persons

2 m²

Bed options:

1 Double bed

Heating

Bathtub

room details

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Getting around

A list of all available modes of transport

City Centre

Barnard Castle 6.2 km

Airports

Durham Tees Valley (MME) 47.0 km

Newcastle (NCL) 88.6 km

Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Spacious Rooms

“I was delighted by the size of the room. It provided ample space to relax and unwind after a long journey.” view full review

Modern & Clean

“The bathroom was a standout feature; it was both modern and meticulously clean, enhancing my overall comfort.” view full review

Delicious Breakfast

“Breakfast was truly excellent, with a variety of tasty options that exceeded my expectations and started my day off right.” view full review

General

No smoking on site
Free parking
Express check-in/ -out
Pets allowed
Security

Sports & Fitness

Hiking

Guest Parking

Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

Happy hour

Dining

Restaurant
Snack bar
Bar/ Lounge area
Packed lunches
Special diet menus

Spa & Leisure

Live entertainment
Garden area

Room features

Free Wi-Fi in rooms
Sitting area
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Location

The St, Bowes,, The Street, Barnard Castle, United Kingdom, DL12 9HL

Map view

The St, Bowes,, The Street, Barnard Castle, United Kingdom, DL12 9HL

City landmarks

Farm

Cross Lanes Organic Farm

5.3 km

Flatts Rd

Barnard Castle

6.1 km

Museum

The Bowes Museum

6.7 km

Egglestone Abbey Abbey Lane

Egglestone Abbey

6.9 km

Church

Saint Mary's Church

6.2 km

3 Horsemarket

The Witham

6.3 km

34 Horsemarket

The Sandra Parker Studio

6.3 km

Market Place

St Nicholas Church

6.2 km

Nearby

The St

Bowes Castle

350 m

4 Low Road Bowes Barnard Castle

Church of St Giles

120 m

Restaurants

The Ancient Unicorn Inn Restaurant

70 m

The Street Bowes

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback from previous guests about their experience.

88%

liked the hotel and would stay again

comfortable rooms

outstanding service

limited vegetarian options

pricey dining

8.8/10

Great

Rooms

8.7

Location

9.0

Service

9.3

Dining

8.3

Edwin

United Kingdom, August 2023

9.0/10

The hotel offers cozy rooms with substantial bunk beds, the best shower, and an additional electric fire for warmth, alongside a nice large bath. The service was top-notch, and the location is convenient for visiting Barnard Castle and enjoying tasty vegetarian options at nearby restaurants. The dining experience was delightful, especially with hand-cut beef tartare, and the facilities were impressive.

Rooms

9.0

The rooms were cozy and well-equipped, providing a comfortable stay.

Service

9.0

The service was excellent and attentive, making my stay pleasant.

Location

9.0

The hotel's location is ideal, close to Barnard Castle and great dining options.

Dining

9.0

The dining experience was superb, especially with hand-cut beef tartare that stood out.

Facilities

9.0

The facilities provided everything I needed for a relaxing stay.

Linda

United Kingdom, July 2023

9.2/10

The hotel offers comfortable rooms with substantial bunk beds and classy decor, providing a view. The service was top-notch, and the dining options included good quality ingredients and homemade pies. The location is convenient for visiting Teesdale attractions, Barnard Castle, and even the Lake District and Scotland.

Rooms

9.0

The rooms were spacious and beautifully decorated, with a lovely view.

Service

10.0

The service was outstanding, making me feel truly welcomed and cared for.

Location

9.0

The hotel's location was perfect for exploring the nearby attractions and venturing to other scenic areas like the Lake District and Scotland.

Dining

9.0

The dining experience exceeded my expectations with its variety of well-prepared dishes and homemade delights.

Facilities

9.0

The hotel boasts excellent facilities, making my stay even more enjoyable.

comfortable rooms

limited vegetarian options

Julian

United Kingdom, April 2023

8.2/10

The hotel is in a super quiet village but within a short drive of Barnard Castle & surrounding areas. The rooms are comfortable with additional electric fire to supplement the central heating, but the shared bathroom may not be ideal for everyone. The veggie choices in the nearby pub stood out as more interesting than the usual vegetable lasagne, offering a pleasant dining surprise.

Rooms

8.0

The rooms are comfortable with additional electric fire to supplement the central heating.

Service

9.0

Friendly service.

Location

9.0

The hotel is in a super quiet village but within a short drive of Barnard Castle & surrounding areas. The veggie choices in the nearby pub are more interesting than the usual options.

Dining

7.0

The veggie choices at the nearby pub were a nice surprise.

Facilities

8.0

Good facilities.