What are the hotel policies for check-in and check-out at The Ancient Unicorn?
Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is by 10:00.
The Ancient Unicorn, Barnard Castle
Key details
About the Hotel
The Street, Bowes, Barnard Castle, DL12 9HL,
- Close to Bowes Medieval Castle
Great
8.3
8.7
3.9
4.5
4-Star Historic Coaching Inn in Bowes
Location
The Ancient Unicorn is situated in Bowes, just minutes from the A66, allowing easy access for travelers heading to Scotland or the Lake District. This traditional coaching inn serves as a base to explore the scenic unspoilt countryside of Teesdale. Nearby landmarks include Barnard Castle and Raby Castle, perfect for history enthusiasts.
Rooms
The hotel offers a variety of newly refurbished accommodations including the
Dining
Guests can enjoy on-site dining at
Family-Friendly Options
The hotel accommodates families with spacious rooms and apartments, ensuring ample space for relaxation. Children can benefit from joining the outdoor activities, exploring the beautiful countryside. The various room configurations, including
Highlights
Location: in the beautiful village of Bowes
Rooms: Amalphia Apartment sleeps up to 8 guests
Dining: TNT SPORTS & SKY SPORTS at the bar
Activities: Local walks feature dramatic landscapes
Must-do experiences
- Wander through the stunning Bowes Museum for art and history.
- Taste the famous Barnard Castle pie at local bakery, Lacey's.
- Enjoy a picnic at the scenic Eggleston Hall Gardens nearby.
- Visit the enchanting ruins of Barnard Castle itself at sunset.
- Explore the quaint Barnard Castle Farmers' Market on weekends.
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Check availability and prices for your dates now!
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Check-in/ Check-out
Facilities
The Ancient Unicorn offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
General
- No smoking on site
- Free Wi-Fi
- Parking
- Express check-in/ -out
- Pets allowed
- Security
Sports & Fitness
- Hiking
Guest Parking
- Private parking is possible on site for free.
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
Show more
The Ancient Unicorn Location
The Street, Bowes, Barnard Castle, DL12 9HL,
Explore Barnard Castle
Local Insights
Bowes Castle
5 minutes' walk
A historic 12th-century castle with scenic views and rich history, perfect for a quick visit.
Church of St Giles
2 minutes' walk
A stunning medieval church known for its architecture and tranquil atmosphere, ideal for a leisurely stroll.
Barnard Castle
7-minute drive
A remarkable 12th-century ruin with picturesque surrounding scenery, great for photography and history buffs.
The Bowes Museum
9-minute drive
An impressive museum featuring fine arts and a beautiful garden, offering art lovers a cultural experience.
Teesdale Alpacas
28-minute walk
An interactive farm experience with alpacas, perfect for families and animal lovers. Walk-ins available.
Hiking in the Teesdale Valley
10-minute drive
Offering breathtaking views and diverse trails, ideal for thrill-seekers looking for adventure.
The Ancient Unicorn Inn Restaurant
1 minute' walk
A cozy pub serving traditional British fare with local charm. Seasonal specials welcome all appetites.
The Witham
9-minute drive
A vibrant venue with a range of cuisines, often featuring local ingredients and live music events.
The Bowes Museum Events
9-minute drive
Offering regular exhibitions and events, this location provides cultural entertainment suitable for all ages.
Local Pubs and Live Music
5 minutes' walk
Various pubs nearby host live music nights and community events, making for a lively evening outing.
Getting around
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
16
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about The Ancient Unicorn from previous guests about their experience.
Guest reviewsbased on 5 reviews
Oliver from United Kingdom
Single
Standard Twin Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: February 07, 2026
9.0/10
charming stay
friendly staff decent food range of options
the staff was friendly and helpful the hotel was very comfy and tidy. the food was fairly decent and reasonably priced. breakfast included a range of options to suit most people.
i found the bed to be quite hard and the duvet was a little noisy.
Rooms
9/10
the room had tea making facilities and a tv. the room was modern and very clean. it had everything needed for my stay.
Service
10/10
the manager was very attentive and helpful. they offered a drink when the pub was closed. the staff cooked a very nice curry for me.
Facilities
9/10
breakfast was included in the room price. a full english breakfast was an option. there was also cereal and orange juice available.
Location
8/10
the hotel is in a quiet village. it is set in an ideal location. it is close to some attractions.
Dining
9/10
the evening meal was tasty and good value. breakfast included a good range of options. the food was fairly decent overall.
0 Helpful
|
Desmond from Canada
Couple
Small Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 13, 2026
6/10
Adequate, with Some Snags
dusty room awful breakfast
The room was rather dusty. I spotted some mold on the window. Plus, hairs in the bath, which ain't my idea of a good time. Breakfast used cheap ingredients, and tasted bad. It was not very excellent, I must say.
0 Helpful
Dominic from United Kingdom
Single
Deluxe Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 09, 2026
7/10
friendly staff english breakfast kind manager ill fitting window blinds draughty door cold room
the staff were very friendly and helpful i felt welcomed the whole time. breakfast was included it was a full english with cereal and juice. the manager even cooked us curry when the pub was closed that was very kind.
the window blinds did not fit well and let in drafts it was a pain. the main door also had a draft i noticed this all evening. the room felt cold the bathroom was even colder despite the heating being on
0 Helpful
Jennifer from United States
Couple
Deluxe Double Room
3 nights in August 2026
|
Reviewed: September 28, 2025
9.0/10
lovely stay
easy access good breakfast choice clean room
the access with key codes was so easy, really helpful when i arrived late. the breakfast choice offered many options, and the rooms was very clean. i will stay again, i hope.
the window needs attention because of the noises at night. the cold air that came through the window was bad. this made the room very cold all evening.
Service
9/10
staff provided detailed instructions before arrival. the staff was helpful, and they addressed all questions promptly. i appreciate how they managed my requests.
Rooms
8/10
my room included comfortable beds. i think the bathroom was super clean. the room size was large and accommodated all our luggage. the shower had good pressure.
Location
10/10
location provided easy access to nearby shops. it was quiet. the area allowed me to relax. the location really is perfect for exploration.
Dining
9/10
breakfast included options to suit most diets. the breakfast room had a nice atmosphere. i think that there was a good range of food. the dining area were very clean.
0 Helpful
|
Victor from United Kingdom
Single
Standard Twin Room
2 nights in June 2026
|
Reviewed: August 19, 2025
8/10
polite staff cooked breakfast
The room offered a functional shower. A kettle was also available. I noted the staff to be polite during breakfast. The cooked breakfast was also quite enjoyable.
The music from the bar was audible in my room until late.
0 Helpful
Show more reviews
FAQs
About The Ancient Unicorn
How far is The Ancient Unicorn from Durham Tees Valley airport?
The hotel is located 50 km from Durham Tees Valley Airport.
What nearby attractions can guests visit while staying at The Ancient Unicorn?
Nearby attractions include Bowes Museum (8 km), Raby Castle (19 km), and High Force waterfall.
Does The Ancient Unicorn offer on-site dining options?
The hotel features a restaurant that serves British cuisine with vegetarian, dairy-free, and gluten-free options.
Is parking available at The Ancient Unicorn?
Free private parking is available on-site without the need for a reservation.
What room amenities are available at The Ancient Unicorn?
Rooms include free Wi-Fi, an electric kettle, a coffee maker, and some come equipped with kitchen facilities.
What breakfast options does The Ancient Unicorn provide?
Guests can enjoy continental, Full English/Irish, or vegetarian breakfast options.
What amenities are available for families at The Ancient Unicorn?
The hotel features family rooms and offers a family-friendly restaurant.
Is there internet access at The Ancient Unicorn?
Free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms.
What activities can guests enjoy around The Ancient Unicorn?
Guests can participate in hiking and exploring the scenic countryside.
How far is The Ancient Unicorn from the center of Barnard Castle?
The hotel is located approximately 4 km from the center of Barnard Castle.
Are there any local dining options near The Ancient Unicorn?
Numerous pubs and restaurants are available within a 1 km radius, including options for traditional British cuisine.
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