The Ancient Unicorn Hotel - Barnard Castle
54.51707321, -2.00929324
Overview
Historic 400-year-old coaching inn with pet-friendly rooms in Barnard Castle countryside
Historic Setting & Accommodations
The Ancient Unicorn in Barnard Castle is a 400-year-old coaching inn offering a variety of room options, including family rooms, newly refurbished apartments, and Charles Dickens Cottage. Guests can choose rooms with private bathrooms, kitchenettes, and streaming services, with some accommodations located in courtyard annexes. The hotel also provides free on-site private parking and a private garden for guest relaxation.
Dining at The Ancient Unicorn
The family-friendly restaurant at The Ancient Unicorn serves seasonal, home-cooked British cuisine with specific options for vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets. Breakfast is available as a continental selection or full English/Irish cooked breakfast, all prepared to order. The on-site bar offers TNT and Sky Sports, plus live music performances during certain evenings.
Location & Exploration
The Ancient Unicorn Inn is situated in the village of Bowes, close to the Pennine Way hiking trail and within 8 km of The Bowes Museum. Guests can also visit Raby Castle (18 km) and High Force waterfall, making the hotel a base for exploring Teesdale countryside. The location provides access to local hiking trails and historic attractions, with Barnard Castle town a short drive away.
Pet-Friendly Amenities
The Ancient Unicorn Hotel Barnard Castle is a pet-friendly accommodation where dogs are welcome in designated rooms and public areas. The property has its own resident dog, Gus, a French bulldog, who adds to the welcoming atmosphere. Guests with pets can enjoy walks from the hotel directly to Bowes Castle and the Pennine Way.
Guest Services & Self-Check-In
The hotel operates with a self-check-in system using key codes for the building and key safes on individual room doors, allowing flexible arrival times. Express check-in and check-out are available, and CCTV covers common areas and outside the property for security. Guests can contact staff via phone or in-person during bar opening hours for assistance.
- History: 400-year-old coaching inn with original character
- Rooms: Family rooms, Charles Dickens Cottage, and newly refurbished apartments
- Dining: Seasonal British cuisine with vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free menus
- Location: 8 km from The Bowes Museum, near Pennine Way and High Force waterfall
- Pets: Dog-friendly stays with resident dog Gus
- Service: Self-check-in with key codes and express check-in/out
- Activities: Live music, bar with Sky Sports, and private garden
Essential information about The Ancient Unicorn Hotel
| 💵 Lowest room price | 96 £ |
| 📏 Distance to centre | 6.2 km |
| ✈️ Distance to airport | 47.0 km |
| 🧳 Nearest airport | Durham Tees Valley, MME |
Location
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