Barnard Castle is a historic market town located in the North East of England in County Durham. It is situated 9 miles west of Darlington and 16 miles south west of Durham. The town itself is very much steeped in history and there are a large number of tourist attractions and cultural activities to enjoy. The ruins of the 12th century castle from which it derives its name can still be seen, however it’s the picturesque riverside setting and the old cobbled streets that attract visitors from all over.
1. Barnard Castle parks and places for a walk on a first date
Barnard Castle offers a great variety of parks and places for a walk on a first date. There are several riverside walks along the River Tees that meander through the town, with lush greenery and beautiful views of the castle. For a more strenuous walk, head to nearby High Force Waterfall. The spectacular 30-metre high waterfall offers a beautiful backdrop to your date, where you can wander through woodland before reaching the impressive falls. You can also take a short stroll around the Bowes Museum, admiring the Edwardian architecture and wildlife. Finally, the Barnard Castle Park is a great spot for a romantic stroll, with many benches and garden features to take in during your date.
2. Places for a coffee date in Barnard Castle
If you’re looking for a more relaxed date, why not head to one of Barnard Castle’s popular coffee spots for a spot of afternoon tea or a cup of hot chocolate? The popular Borough Market offers a range of speciality hot drinks, cakes and pastries that can be enjoyed indoors or al fresco. For something a little more special, visit The Gallery Cafe Bar, located in the middle of the town. This charming cafe is known for its delicious homemade cakes, as well as its freshly brewed coffee. Alternatively, The Ropery Coffee House is an ideal spot to enjoy some artisan coffee and cake, with a friendly atmosphere and plenty of seating both indoors and out.
3. Barnard Castle galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Barnard Castle is home to a number of impressive galleries, museums and exhibitions that are sure to make your first date even more memorable. The Bowes Museum offers a wealth of collections and displays, exploring a range of cultural themes, including fine art, sculpture, furniture and textiles. The museum also features a popular café and a beautiful garden with a number of scenic views. The Medieval Gallery houses a number of artefacts from the 13th century, giving visitors a fascinating insight into the town’s history. For a more hands-on date, why not head to Bishop Auckland’s Locomotion? This interactive museum and heritage railway offers a range of interactive exhibits and activities, including a ride on one of the original diesel shunters. For a fun-filled day out, head to the Killhope Lead Mining Museum. This unique museum explores the rich history of lead mining in the area, with interactive displays and activities for visitors of all ages.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Barnard Castle
If you’re looking for a more energetic way to spend your first date, Barnard Castle has a number of live music and entertainment venues to choose from. The Forum Music Centre regularly plays host to a range of live music events, featuring an eclectic mix of local and international artists. For a more intimate experience, the Oak Tree Theatre offers a number of plays, comedy nights and live music. And if you’re looking for something a bit different, why not head to the historic venue of Walworth Castle Hotel? This castle-turned-hotel hosts a range of events, including ghost hunts, murder mystery nights and even themed weddings.
5. Barnard Castle pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
After a day of exploring, why not head to one of Barnard Castle’s many pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food? The Tree House is a popular pub that offers a range of beers, ales and wines, as well as a delicious menu of traditional pub grub. The Andblu Bar & Grill is a great destination for a romantic dinner, offering delicious Mediterranean-style dishes and a range of cocktails. Alternatively, the Masons Arms, located in nearby Middleton-in-Teesdale, is a great spot to enjoy a drink and a meal in a more relaxed setting. The bar also offers a selection of local ales and a wide selection
