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.
45 photos
The Ancient Unicorn, Barnard Castle
131US$
Book on our site
Up to 10% cheaper
than Booking.com
Key details
About the Hotel
The Street, Bowes,
Barnard Castle,
United Kingdom,
DL12 9HL,
Durham
- Close to Bowes Medieval Castle
Great
8.3
8.7
3.8
4.5
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
Activities
The surrounding area offers numerous walking trails, including sections of the Pennine Way, where guests can experience stunning countryside views. Local walks feature dramatic landscapes and historical landmarks, enhancing any outdoor adventure. Photographers and nature lovers find endless inspiration in this pristine environment.
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.
View all
Select your room type
The Ancient Unicorn Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Deluxe Double Room
2 persons
25 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
room details
Budget Triple Room
2 persons
195 sq. feet
1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed
Heating
room details
Standard Twin Room
2 persons
25 sq. feet
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
room details
Budget Double Room
2 persons
25 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
room details
Show all roomsLess
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Check availability and prices for your dates now!
Facilities
The Ancient Unicorn Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
General
- Non-smoking property
- Free internet access
- Pets allowed
Guest Parking
- Electric kettle
- Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Dining
- Restaurant
- Bar/ Lounge 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 Hotel Location
The Street, Bowes,
Barnard Castle,
United Kingdom,
DL12 9HL,
Durham
Map view
The Street, Bowes,
Barnard Castle,
United Kingdom,
DL12 9HL,
Durham
City landmarks
Farm
Cross Lanes Organic Farm
3.3
mi
Landmark
Barnard Castle
3.8
mi
Museum
The Bowes Museum
4.1
mi
Landmark
Egglestone Abbey
4.3
mi
Church
Saint Mary's Church
3.9
mi
Landmark
The Witham
3.9
mi
Landmark
The Sandra Parker Studio
3.9
mi
Landmark
St Nicholas Church
3.9
mi
Nearby
The St
Bowes Castle
1200 ft
4 Low Road Bowes Barnard Castle
Church of St Giles
400 ft
Restaurants
The Ancient Unicorn Inn Restaurant
300 ft
The Street Bowes
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.
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.
Getting around
Want to see Exclusive Early Booking Rate?
Get exlusive rates right now!
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.
Breakfast
At the hotel The Ancient Unicorn guests are invited to a full breakfast served 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 Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Guest reviewsbased on 441 reviews
Victor from United Kingdom
Single
Standard Twin Room
2 nights in June 2025
|
Reviewed:August 19, 2025
8/10
polite staffcooked 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
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.
Next best alternative
Consider them for your next trip.
Nh Toulouse AirportBlagnac, France
293 reviews
115 USD/night
The Manor House InnConsett, United Kingdom
89 reviews
88 USD/night
Coeo Pod Hostel BeatasMalaga, Spain
147 reviews
62 USD/night
Stone House HotelHawes, United Kingdom
85 reviews
250 USD/night
The Buck InnBuckden (North Yorkshire), United Kingdom
86 reviews
128 USD/night
The Green Dragon At HardrawHardraw, United Kingdom
13 reviews
128 USD/night
Middle House - Wensleydale, Yorkshire DalesAskrigg, United Kingdom
83 reviews
125 USD/night
Skeldale House 'All Creatures Great & Small' Luxury Apartments & Studios In Askrigg, Yorkshire DalesAskrigg, United Kingdom
76 reviews
133 USD/night
Nobu Hotel San SebastianSan Sebastian, Spain
22 reviews
1 224 USD/night
Premier Inn Newcastle - Metro CentreGateshead, United Kingdom
27 reviews
136 USD/night
The Fountain HotelHawes, United Kingdom
106 reviews
82 USD/night
Hotel SempioneMilan, Italy
1848 reviews
59 USD/night
Popular hotels all over the world
Find your perfect hotel stay today
114 reviews
Hotel Hotel Peyto Samseong SeoulSeoul, South Korea
5 min from Samseong Subway Station, Across from Hyundai Department Store
View hotel
1715 reviews
The Multatuli Hotel Amsterdam HotelAmsterdam, Netherlands
Listed national monument, 10-minute walk to Dam Square
View hotel
127 reviews
Hotel Hotel Great Punjab
400 m from Aurangabad Railway Station, Restaurant on-site
More About Hotel Hotel Flor Rivoli »
220 m from Châtelet Metro Station, 800 m from the Louvre
Hotel Heart Of The Berkshires Motel
3-minute drive from Hancock Shaker Village, 15 km from Tanglewood Musical Center
Trancoso Uxua
Historic Quadrado location, Aventurine quartz healing pool
Dosso Dossi Hotel Istanbul
4-minute walk to Sultanahmet Tram Station, Walking distance to Hagia Sophia
