Activities

What to do

The Ancient Unicorn is situated in Teesdale on the edge of the North Pennines, a recognised area of outstanding beauty.

There are lots of ancient footpaths and tracks to explore including the famous Pennine Way which runs through the village of Bowes. The Teesdale Way also makes its way through nearby Barnard Castle.

The inn provides a popular stop off spot for rest and refreshments for walkers.

In addition to the Pennine Way the Walney to Wear Cycle Route (W2W) also takes you through Bowes and cyclists are more than welcome as we offer secure storage of equipment overnight.

There is a wealth of other outdoor activities close by including off road driving, horse riding, fishing, canoeing, bird watching, clay pigeon shooting and sailing.

What to see

The Ancient Unicorn and the village of Bowes is only 4 miles from the bustling market town of Barnard Castle, home not only to the 12th century castle, but also the Bowes Museum.

Barnard Castle is also renowned for its many antique shops on The Bank.

There is also a Farmers Market held on the 1st Saturday of every month.

Raby Castle , home to Lord Barnard, is well worth a visit in nearby Staindrop.

The area is also a local birdwatchers paradise.

Visit the spectacular High Force waterfall - England's highest unbroken fall of water.

Good road access makes the Ancient Unicorn an ideal base for exploring the history and heritage of Durham, North East England, the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District.

Newcastle with its myriad of attractions or York with its historic Minster, railway museum and varied shopping are within an hour to an hour and a half drive away.