English Heritage

On the fringe of the town named after it, Barnard Castle takes its own name from Bernard de Balliol, who began the stone fortress here in the 12th century. His successors raised the mighty round tower, before losing the castle after a failed attempt to become kings of Scotland.

Later owners included Richard of Gloucester, (who later became Richard III) whose white boar emblem is carved above a window in the great chamber. Search out this royal badge and then enjoy great views from the window of the winding tree-lined river below.

Stretching from the huge outer ward to the innermost stronghold towering above the gorge, there’s lots to see and plenty of room to explore and play in this big castle.

Barnard Castle has been awarded a Bronze Green Impact Award, click here to find out more about the awards.