Barnard
Castle, historic market town, County Durham, Northern England
Barnard Castle is a lovely
historic market town set above the glorious River Tees. Its
name derives from the 12th Century Norman Castle built by
Bernard Balliol between 1112 and 1132. The Castle occupies a
most commanding position above the River Tees. It is a most
pleasant town to potter around in and its varied architecture is
highly rated.
The Market
Place Teashop provides good food, tea and coffee etc. and is
at the top end of Horse Market (above) which is part of the
main street of Barnard Castle. Up on the right is Galgate
(left picture) with more shops and fine houses.
Penny's Cafe is
just across the road from the octagonal Buttercross ('Market
Cross', 'Butter Mart', above and left) with Church in the
background. The Buttercross, built in 1747, is a reminder
that Barnard Castle is the main market town for Teesdale. In
its time is has served as a court, gaol, Town Hall and
butter market.
Blagraves
House on The Bank is a 16th century house which later became an inn. It
is reputed that Oliver Cromwell was entertained here in
1648. Built in 1569 it is still going strong as a
restaurant.
The Old Well Inn is fine looking
house on The Bank. The are many other handsome houses on The
Bank and further down towards the River Tees on Thorngate.
The White Swan pub is just
across the fine bridge over the River Tees below Barnard's Castle. It is a suitable place
to call in to after a lovely walk along the River Tees up to
Cotherstone which is an excellent circular river walk (see
below).
