Barnard Castle: County Durham

Number 19 - Barnard Castle

After staying at Lumley castle overnight we set off in the morning and headed for Barnard castle. It's managed by the English Heritage and sits in a lovely little market town. We parked a bit of a walk away, but it wasn't a problem as there were lots of things to look at as we pootled along.

From the outside the castle doesn't look like there's that much to see and do, but once you get in it's actually really big with lots of the ruin still in tact. We were pleasantly surprised and actually spent quite a while there.

It was built in the 12th century and overlooks the Tees Gorge, so lots of fantastic views. You could climb stairs that took you to the top of the various turrets.

There was also a lovely herb and flower garden which Chloe loved as she is a keen gardener.

There were swathes of green fields, and crossing them took you to other parts of the castle and a rather lovely drawbridge etc. It must have been really huge when it was all in one piece.

Costs: £5 approx for adults

Hints and tips: Don't be deceived by first impressions, you get a lot of castle for your money!