From its grand architecture to picture perfect scenery, the market town of Barnard Castle has plenty of attractive features for homebuyers. Aranda Garrard discovers more. FROM the splendour of its museum, built in the style of a French chateau, to its castle and market cross, there are plenty of attractions to living in Barnard Castle.
Locally known as Barney, the market town in Teesdale has beautiful Georgian buildings, a cobbled market place and plenty of woodland and riverside walks. Its castle takes its name from Bernard de Balliol, who rebuilt it in the 12th Century. The ruins of the stronghold overlook the River Tees and make a stunning backdrop to the town. Places to visit include the Bowes Museum, founded by John and Josephine Bowes. It is on the edge of Barnard Castle and has a fantastic collection of fine art. It was built in 1862 and also contains archaeology and local history galleries, as well as collections of costumes, textiles and ceramics. Because of its rural nature, the area has its own ramblers’ association, the Barnard Castle Ramblers Group. The group has a membership of about 100 and has been going for more than 40 years now. For those who want to sample the local delicacies, Teesdale farmers’ markets are held on the first Saturday of every month on the cobbles in the centre of Barnard Castle. The markets try to encourage the sale of locally-produced food in the area. The area known as the Bank is one of the best centres in the region for antiques collectors and has historical associations with Charles Dickens, JMW Turner, Sir Walter Scott and Oliver Cromwell. Another landmark is Barnard Castle School, an independent boarding school which has turned out a number of rugby players, including most recently Matthew Tait and his younger brother Alex. For those who like fine dining, The Morritt at Greta Bridge, near Barnard Castle, is a popular choice. The hotel, built on an ancient Roman settlement, dates from the late 17th Century, when there was a farm on the site. There are always plenty of activities for people living in the area, from agricultural shows to craft festivals and heritage open days. Andrew Young, associate partner and head of sales at estate agent George F White’s branches at Alnwick in Northumberland and Wolsingham, County Durham, said: “Barnard Castle market town is the central hub within Teesdale and is renowned for its bustling main streets, pleasant architecture, ancient castle and riverside location. Within minutes of the town you can be within the heart of the magnificent Durham Dales and North Pennines, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. “Due to its location and pace of life, Barnard Castle and the surrounding area is extremely popular with those working at the town’s principal employer GlaxoSmithKline, as well as those who commute to Darlington and Teesside; while Cumbria, York and Leeds are not beyond reach for the daily commuter. Due to the popularity of Barnard Castle, there is more limited supply and the area appeals to more affluent individuals. “I believe that Barnard Castle has been less affected financially than other places, such as Bishop Auckland and Newton Aycliffe. I maintain that unique, unusual, well marketed properties will always generate interest, even in the tightest market place.” | 
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