Title: The Ancient Unicorn Reviews, Deals & Photos 2026 - Expedia.co.uk [See all properties](http://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?regionId=&adults=2&children=&sort=RECOMMENDED&useRewards=false&semdtl=&userIntent=&vip=false) # The Ancient Unicorn This welcoming guesthouse strikes the perfect balance between homey comfort and practical convenience for travelers seeking a hassle-free stay ## Photo gallery for The Ancient Unicorn ![Classic Twin Room, Ensuite - The Ancient Unicorn (Barnard Castle)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/20000000/19660000/19657100/19657058/2f1a544e.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=598&ra=fit) ![Bar (on property) - The Ancient Unicorn (Barnard Castle)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/20000000/19660000/19657100/19657058/69aa9a5a.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Restaurant - The Ancient Unicorn (Barnard Castle)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/20000000/19660000/19657100/19657058/66ee16a2.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Deluxe Double Room, Ensuite - The Ancient Unicorn (Barnard Castle)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/20000000/19660000/19657100/19657058/e45ffccf.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Bar (on property) - The Ancient Unicorn (Barnard Castle)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/20000000/19660000/19657100/19657058/aa69e1c3.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) - Overview - Rooms - Location - Policies The Ancient Unicorn offers a warm atmosphere that makes guests feel at home. Travelers appreciate practical touches like free WiFi in common areas and straightforward parking. The smoke-free setting creates a clean, comfortable environment for a restful experience. ## Reviews 9.0 Wonderful ## Popular amenities - Pet-friendly - Parking included - Free Wi-Fi - Bar ## Room options ### Check availability for these dates Tonight [Dec 20 - Dec 21](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-12-20&endDate=2025-12-21&selected=19657058&PinnedHotelID=19657058&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-12-20&endDate=2025-12-21&selected=19657058&PinnedHotelID=19657058&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) Tomorrow [Dec 21 - Dec 22](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-12-21&endDate=2025-12-22&selected=19657058&PinnedHotelID=19657058&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-12-21&endDate=2025-12-22&selected=19657058&PinnedHotelID=19657058&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) This weekend [Dec 26 - Dec 28](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-12-26&endDate=2025-12-28&selected=19657058&PinnedHotelID=19657058&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-12-26&endDate=2025-12-28&selected=19657058&PinnedHotelID=19657058&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) Next weekend [Jan 2 - Jan 4](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-02&endDate=2026-01-04&selected=19657058&PinnedHotelID=19657058&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-02&endDate=2026-01-04&selected=19657058&PinnedHotelID=19657058&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) All rooms 2 beds 1 bed Showing 9 of 9 rooms ### View all photos for Classic Twin Room, Ensuite ![Classic Twin Room, Ensuite](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/20000000/19660000/19657100/19657058/2f1a544e.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1200&h=800&quality=medium) ### Classic Twin Room, Ensuite 9.0 Wonderful 2 reviews ### Highlights Heating Fridge Premium bedding Separate bedroom Microwave Oven Stovetop Coffee/tea maker - 1 bedroom - Sleeps 2 - 2 Single Beds ### View all photos for Deluxe Double Room, Ensuite ![Deluxe Double Room, Ensuite](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/20000000/19660000/19657100/19657058/fa88afd9.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1200&h=800&quality=medium) ### Deluxe Double Room, Ensuite ### Highlights Heating Premium bedding Separate bedroom Hairdryer Private bathroom Coffee/tea maker Electric kettle Digital channels - 1 bedroom - Sleeps 2 - 1 Double Bed ### View all photos for Basic Double Room, Shared Bathroom ![Basic Double Room, Shared Bathroom](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/20000000/19660000/19657100/19657058/1a450079.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1200&h=800&quality=medium) ### Basic Double Room, Shared Bathroom ### Highlights Heating Premium bedding Separate bedroom Coffee/tea maker Electric kettle - 1 bedroom - Sleeps 2 - 1 Double Bed ### View all photos for Basic Twin Room, Shared Bathroom ![Basic Twin Room, Shared Bathroom](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/20000000/19660000/19657100/19657058/5f4f1e9d.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1200&h=800&quality=medium) ### Basic Twin Room, Shared Bathroom ### Highlights Heating Premium bedding Separate bedroom Coffee/tea maker Electric kettle Digital channels - 1 bedroom - Sleeps 2 - 2 Single Beds ### View all photos for Comfort Double Room, Ensuite ![Comfort Double Room, Ensuite](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/20000000/19660000/19657100/19657058/601816a1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1200&h=800&quality=medium) ### Comfort Double Room, Ensuite 8.8 Excellent 3 reviews ### Highlights Heating Premium bedding Separate bedroom Hairdryer Private bathroom Coffee/tea maker Electric kettle Pet friendly - 1 bedroom - Sleeps 2 - 1 Double Bed ### View all photos for Classic Double Room, Ensuite ![Classic Double Room, Ensuite](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/20000000/19660000/19657100/19657058/7240eac0.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1200&h=800&quality=medium) ### Classic Double Room, Ensuite 8.0 Very good 1 review ### Highlights Heating Premium bedding Separate bedroom Hairdryer Private bathroom Coffee/tea maker Electric kettle Pet friendly - 1 bedroom - Sleeps 2 - 1 Double Bed ### View all photos for Family Triple Room, Ensuite ![Family Triple Room, Ensuite](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/20000000/19660000/19657100/19657058/a1385205.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1200&h=800&quality=medium) ### Family Triple Room, Ensuite ### Highlights Heating Premium bedding Separate bedroom Hairdryer Private bathroom Coffee/tea maker Electric kettle Digital channels - 1 bedroom - Sleeps 3 - 1 Double Bed and 1 Single Bed ### View all photos for Comfort Cottage, Ensuite, Courtyard View (Charles Dickens Cottage) ![Comfort Cottage, Ensuite, Courtyard View (Charles Dickens Cottage) | Lounge](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/20000000/19660000/19657100/19657058/aff9db75.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1200&h=800&quality=medium) ### Comfort Cottage, Ensuite, Courtyard View (Charles Dickens Cottage) 10.0 Exceptional 1 review ### Highlights Separate dining area Heating Kitchen Fridge Blackout curtains Separate bedroom Hairdryer Private bathroom - 1 bedroom - Sleeps 4 - 1 Double Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed ### View all photos for Basic Triple Room, Shared Bathroom, Courtyard View (Mini Unicorn) ![Basic Triple Room, Shared Bathroom, Courtyard View (Mini Unicorn)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/20000000/19660000/19657100/19657058/7b294ca1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1200&h=800&quality=medium) ### Basic Triple Room, Shared Bathroom, Courtyard View (Mini Unicorn) ### Highlights Heating Premium bedding Blackout curtains Separate bedroom Digital channels Pet friendly - 194 sq ft - 1 bedroom - Sleeps 3 - 1 Single Bed and 1 Double Bed ![Mod logo](https://a.travel-assets.com/pricing-claim/sparkle_dark.svg) Sign in to view eligible discounts and perks. More rewards for more adventures! [Sign in](https://www.expedia.co.uk/login?ckoflag=0&uurl=e3id%3Dredr%26rurl%3D%2FBarnard-Castle-Hotels-Ancient-Unicorn-Inn.h19657058.Hotel-Information)[Sign up, it's free](https://www.expedia.co.uk/signup?enable_registration=true&uurl=e3id%3Dredr%26rurl%3D%2FBarnard-Castle-Hotels-Ancient-Unicorn-Inn.h19657058.Hotel-Information) ## About the area ![Map](https://maps.googleapis.com/maps/api/staticmap?&size=660x330&map_id=3b266eb50d2997c6&zoom=13&markers=icon:https%3A%2F%2Fa.travel-assets.com%2Ftravel-assets-manager%2Feg-maps%2Fproperty.png%7C54.51712%2C-2.00945&channel=expedia-HotelInformation&maptype=roadmap&scale=1&key=AIzaSyCYjQus5kCufOpSj932jFoR_AJiL9yiwOw&signature=JpiITYIh3una2ij0DrhOKz7_LXA=) The St, Bowes,, The Street, Barnard Castle, England, DL12 9HL #### What's nearby - North Pennines \- 16 min walk \- 0.9 miles - Barnard Castle \- 6 min drive \- 4.8 miles - Yorkshire Dales National Park \- 20 min drive \- 19.7 miles - Durham University \- 42 min drive \- 33.4 miles - Beamish Open Air Museum \- 58 min drive \- 43.9 miles #### Getting around - Kirkby Stephen Station - 21 min drive - Durham (MME-Teesside Intl.) - 42 min drive #### Restaurants - ‪Cross Lanes Organic Restaurant - ‬4 min drive - ‪The Cricketers Arms - ‬7 min drive - ‪Ancient Unicorn Inn - ‬1 min walk - ‪The Milbank Arms - ‬10 min drive - ‪Coach & Horses - ‬7 min drive ## About this property ### The Ancient Unicorn Property highlights You can look forward to free breakfast, a free daily manager's reception and a coffee shop/cafe at The Ancient Unicorn. Free WiFi in public areas is available to all guests, along with a garden and a bar. Other perks at this guest house include: - Free self-parking - Coffee/tea in reception, outdoor furniture and smoke-free property ## Similar properties ![Dining](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/3000000/2300000/2297300/2297201/04a3bb3a.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### The Old Well Inn Barnard Castle - Breakfast included - Pet-friendly - Free Wi-Fi - Restaurant 8.2 Very good 170 reviews £83 includes taxes & fees 1 Jan - 2 Jan 2026 [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-01&endDate=2026-01-02&selected=2297201&PinnedHotelID=2297201&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Exterior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/3000000/2290000/2288000/2287981/bc688b07.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### The Redwell Inn Barnard Castle - Parking included - Free Wi-Fi - Restaurant - Business services 7.6 Good 81 reviews £67 includes taxes & fees 23 Dec - 24 Dec [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-12-23&endDate=2025-12-24&selected=2287981&PinnedHotelID=2287981&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Suite, Ensuite](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/6000000/5960000/5953900/5953894/w2048h1535x0y1-dce1a0ff.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### The Three Horseshoes Hotel Barnard Castle - Parking included - Free Wi-Fi - Restaurant - Tennis court 9.6 Exceptional 417 reviews £120 includes taxes & fees 22 Dec - 23 Dec [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-12-22&endDate=2025-12-23&selected=5953894&PinnedHotelID=5953894&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Front of property](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/84000000/83670000/83666100/83666075/e002cac7.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### The George Of Piercebridge Darlington - Pet-friendly - Parking included - Free Wi-Fi - Restaurant 8.6 Excellent 399 reviews [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-03&endDate=2026-01-04&selected=83666075&PinnedHotelID=83666075&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Body treatments, body wraps, body scrubs, facials, 5 treatment rooms](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/12000000/11900000/11899100/11899080/7454e9f7.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### The Morritt Country House Hotel & The Garage Spa Barnard Castle - Hot tub - Spa - Pet-friendly - Free Wi-Fi 8.0 Very good 242 reviews £64 includes taxes & fees 5 Jan - 6 Jan 2026 [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-05&endDate=2026-01-06&selected=11899080&PinnedHotelID=11899080&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![The Farm House | Private kitchen | Electric kettle](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/89000000/88100000/88090300/88090210/cc932d31.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Runa Farm Barnard Castle - Pet-friendly - Parking included - Free Wi-Fi - Restaurant 9.4 Exceptional 92 reviews £95 includes taxes & fees 22 Dec - 23 Dec [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-12-22&endDate=2025-12-23&selected=88090210&PinnedHotelID=88090210&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Exterior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/2000000/1610000/1600900/1600878/06072221.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Walworth Castle Hotel, BW Signature Collection Darlington - Parking included - Free Wi-Fi - Restaurant - Breakfast available 9.0 Wonderful 435 reviews £71 includes taxes & fees 11 Jan - 12 Jan 2026 [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-11&endDate=2026-01-12&selected=1600878&PinnedHotelID=1600878&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Terrace/patio](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/91000000/90080000/90077200/90077116/e2b15434.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Park Head Hotel Bishop Auckland - Pet-friendly - Parking included - Free Wi-Fi - Restaurant 9.2 Wonderful 137 reviews £69 includes taxes & fees 18 Jan - 19 Jan 2026 [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-18&endDate=2026-01-19&selected=90077116&PinnedHotelID=90077116&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Exterior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/107000000/106730000/106728500/106728483/0a8243d1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### The Boot & Shoe Darlington - Free Wi-Fi - Housekeeping 9.6 Exceptional 24 reviews £69 includes taxes & fees 14 Jan - 15 Jan 2026 [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-14&endDate=2026-01-15&selected=106728483&PinnedHotelID=106728483&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Exterior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/6000000/5860000/5851100/5851074/32fa906a.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Manor House Hotel Bishop Auckland - Pool - Spa - Pet-friendly - Parking included 8.8 Excellent 206 reviews £76 includes taxes & fees 22 Dec - 23 Dec [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-12-22&endDate=2025-12-23&selected=5851074&PinnedHotelID=5851074&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ## Property amenities ### Internet - Available in some public areas: Free WiFi ### Parking and transport - Free self parking on site - Limited on-site self parking ### Food and drink - Free breakfast available - A bar/lounge - A coffee shop/cafe - Coffee and tea in common areas - Free daily manager's reception ### Guest services - Housekeeping (weekly) ### Outdoors - Garden - Outdoor furniture ### Accessibility - No lift ### More - Smoke-free property ## Policies ### Check-in Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; check-in end time: anytime Contactless check-in and check-out are available Minimum check-in age - 18 ### Check-out Check-out before 10:00 AM Contactless check-out ### Special check-in instructions Guests will receive lockbox information Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools ### Renovations and closures The following facilities are closed on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday: - Bar/lounge - Restaurant ### Access methods Lockbox ### Pets Pets are allowed for an extra charge of GBP 10.00 per pet, per stay Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees Welcoming dogs only ### Children and extra beds Children are welcome ### Payment types at the property ## Important information ### Optional extras - Pet fee: GBP 10.00 per pet, per stay - Service animals are exempt from fees The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change. ### You need to know Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed This property accepts credit/debit cards Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit and outdoor lighting This property is professionally cleaned If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the property's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal. ### We should mention This property does not have any lifts This property's policy is to refuse certain bookings for the purpose of group events or parties, including stag and hen parties ### Property is also known as Ancient Unicorn Inn Barnard Castle Ancient Unicorn Barnard Castle Ancient Unicorn Ancient Unicorn Barnard Ancient Unicorn Inn The Ancient Unicorn Guesthouse The Ancient Unicorn Barnard Castle The Ancient Unicorn Guesthouse Barnard Castle ## Frequently asked questions ### Is The Ancient Unicorn pet-friendly? ### How much is parking at The Ancient Unicorn? ### What time is check-in at The Ancient Unicorn? ### What time is check-out at The Ancient Unicorn? ### Where is The Ancient Unicorn located? ## Have a question? Beta Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews. Ask a question ## Reviews ## The Ancient Unicorn Reviews 9.0 ### Wonderful All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.[More information](https://www.expedia.co.uk/lp/b/content-guidelines) ### 9.0 Cleanliness ### 9.2 Location ### 9.0 Staff & service ### 8.2 Eco-friendliness ### 8.8 Property conditions & facilities 10 - Excellent 83 8 - Good 39 6 - Okay 7 4 - Poor 8 2 - Terrible 1 ## Reviews ### 10/10 Excellent #### Louisa 11 Jul 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities A little basic but comfy, very quiet, delicious breakfast and friendly and accommodating staff. ##### Louisa Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Verified traveller 24 Aug 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort #### Northern Break It was the perfect place for a stopover. The room was lovely, the food was good, and the service was good too. ##### Verified traveller Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Sarah 8 Sept 2025 Liked: Amenities Very friendly establishment. Great service and good dinner menu and breakfast. The cottage could of done with a deep clean as there was loads of spiders and cobwebs. Would definitely stay there again but maybe in the pub next time ##### Sarah Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025 ### 8/10 Good #### Carolyne 28 Jul 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort Lovely overnight stay, comfortable accommodation and facilities. Food lovely breast and evening meal. Great parking for motorcycles ##### Carolyne Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Hayley 13 Mar 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities Excellent staff and well positioned for a stop over. ##### Hayley Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Tracy 7 Dec 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort Lovely stay Very cosy ##### Tracy Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Lilly 26 Jan 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort #### Great Stay ! Lovely rooms , comfy bed & comfy pillows , great shower. Service & hospitality was fantastic ! Would highly reccomend. ##### Lilly Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Timothy 7 Sept 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities . ##### Timothy Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025 ### 10/10 Excellent #### paula 4 Apr 2025 #### Wonderful trip away Such a lovely stay property was lovely very clean inviting and cosy and great for our dogs too. The staff were so lovely friendly helpful and made us feel very welcome. I am coeliac and they were fantastic with the food for me would highly recommend loved it ##### paula Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Sharon 21 May 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort #### Lovely place to stay We loved our stay. The staff were lovely and the whole place was cute and friendly ##### Sharon Stayed 1 night in May 2024 ### 8/10 Good #### Julian 15 Jun 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities Two night stay in the small village of Bowes. Double room was comfortable with en suite. Tasty English breakfast included. We used the pub for our evening meal on both nights - there is no other option nearby for dinner without a short drive. Bar food was cooked really well. The bar itself was functional but lacking a bit of character. ##### Julian Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Jean 30 Sept 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities Very friendly, helpful staff. ##### Jean Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Ruth 5 Jan 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort #### Lovely and GF breakfast Lovely stay with lovely hosts. If you’re gluten free, the landlord is coeliac so you get a fabulous breakfast! ##### Ruth Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Mickie 26 Aug 2024 Liked: Amenities Loved our first experience at the ancient unicorn wonderful staff beautiful food I would highly recommend anyone to stay or visit you won’t be disappointed A\*\*\*\* ##### Mickie Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Angela 29 Sept 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities Fabulous room . Helpful, friendly staff . Lovely food . ##### Angela Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Markus 25 Feb 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort #### Fantastic place We had a fabulous stay in the Ancient Unicorn. We were a family of 4 and also had our dog with us. We stayed in the Charles Dickens Cottage and it was outstanding. When we arrived, the cottage was warm and welcoming. The kitchen was well-equipped. The breakfast was delicious and the staff were super friendly. The location is great for exploring the area. We look forward to coming back in the future. ##### Markus Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025 ### 8/10 Good #### jakub 12 Aug 2024 Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort #### Great little cottage. Charles Dickens cottage was great for a family of 4 on a short break. Comfortable and convenient location just off A66 without braking the bank. Great to have a fully equipped kitchen as well if you have kids to feed. ##### jakub Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Deirdre 9 Mar 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort #### Overnight Stay in Room 5 The Ancient Unicorn We only were there for 1 night but it was a very comfy and enjoyable one. We had dinner there and it was very good also breakfast next morning was cooked as you ordered and a very good choice of cold items we had room 5 and it was a beautiful room with tea and coffee making facilities ##### Deirdre Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025 ### 10/10 Excellent #### George 8 May 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities didn't like the price differential between booking direct with the hotel to booking with you. ##### George Stayed 1 night in May 2025 ### 10/10 Excellent #### suzanne 26 Jun 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort #### Happy visitors We were delighted by this place, we had a very warm welcome and very well appointed, spotlessly clean rooms; which were very comfortable. The food was good and the atmosphere very relaxing. Cheerful friendly staff made it a good place to stopover on our travels. ##### suzanne Stayed 1 night in Jun 2023 ### 8/10 Good #### David 28 Apr 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort #### Relaxing stay in historic inn. Nice stay in an historic inn, with clean room, good pub food and a hearty breakfast. Reasonable price too - what's not to like? ##### David Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024 ### 6/10 Okay #### Alison 20 Jul 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities Room was lovely with a very comfy bed. Please add a reading light as the main light was very 'soft'. However the food was NOT good. I'm pretty sure our evening meal choices of scampi+chips and sausage+mash were both microwaved ready meals, not freshly prepared. The scampi+mushy peas were hard/overdone but the chips soggy & limp. The sausage+mash meal fared better but the sausages were really poor quality meat and not tasty. Overall, we would happily sleep there another night if we're in the area but it's not somewhere we want to eat again. ##### Alison Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Verified traveller 22 Jun 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort Friendly, helpful staff. Modern, very clean en-suite room with comfortable bed. Evening meal and breakfast good. Great to meet Gus the dog! ##### Verified traveller Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Steven 25 Jun 2023 Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities Rooms feel very comfy and the colour style was lovely ##### Steven Stayed 1 night in Jun 2023 ### 10/10 Excellent #### jennifer 1 Mar 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort It was in a quiet wee village but if you have a car you can go to town I upgraded to a cottage and it had a microwave and kettle also a hob was very clean and there’s parking the breakfast and food was lovely would go again ![](https://a.travel-assets.com/ugc/hotel-reviews/3FC58C60029C7B8BA16854469147E1CDD66095731709317820888.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=204&ra=fit&q=high) ##### jennifer Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024 ## Expedia's Latest Trends ### Hotels > [ORIDA Maidstone Hotel](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Maidstone-Hotels-ORIDA-Maidstone-Hotel.h74419166.Hotel-Information) > > [Lakes Hotel and Spa](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Windermere-Hotels-Lakes-Hotel-And-Spa.h901040.Hotel-Information) > > [5\* Detached Stone Cottage with a Private Indoor Pool (Not Shared)](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Ashbourne-Hotels-5-Detached-Stone-Cottage-With-A-Private-Indoor-Pool.h31752210.Hotel-Information) > > [DoubleTree by Hilton Cheltenham-Cotswolds](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Cheltenham-Hotels-Doubletree-By-Hilton-Cheltenham.h65899.Hotel-Information) > > [Jacob's Lodge](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Barnard-Castle-Hotels-Jacobs-Lodge.h26992356.Hotel-Information) > > [De Vere Cotswold Water Park](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Cirencester-Hotels-De-Vere-Cotswold-Water-Park.h1770053.Hotel-Information) > > [Cambridge Belfry Hotel & Spa](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Cambridge-Hotels-Cambridge-Belfry.h1103020.Hotel-Information) > > [The Morritt Country House Hotel & The Garage Spa](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Barnard-Castle-Hotels-The-Morritt-Country-House-Hotel-The-Garage-Spa.h11899080.Hotel-Information) > > [Grosvenor Pulford Hotel & Spa](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Chester-Hotels-Grosvenor-Pulford-Hotel-Spa.h790572.Hotel-Information) > > [Pine Lake Resort](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Carnforth-Hotels-Pine-Lake-Resort.h1928661.Hotel-Information) > > [Last Drop Village Hotel and Spa](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Bolton-Hotels-Last-Drop-Village-Hotel-And-Spa.h9341.Hotel-Information) > > [Cave Hotel & Golf Resort](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Faversham-Hotels-Cave-Hotel-Golf-Resort.h33410673.Hotel-Information) > > [ibis budget Manchester Airport](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Manchester-Hotels-Ibis-Budget-Manchester-Airport.h75715089.Hotel-Information) > > [Ufford Park Woodbridge Hotel, Golf & Spa](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Woodbridge-Hotels-Ufford-Park-Woodbridge-Hotel.h12685.Hotel-Information) > > [Dunston Hall Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Norwich-Hotels-Dunston-Hall.h519081.Hotel-Information) > > [Oulton Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Leeds-Hotels-Oulton-Hall-Hotel.h15948.Hotel-Information) > > [The Park Royal Hotel & Spa](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Warrington-Hotels-The-Park-Royal.h24462.Hotel-Information) > > [Fairmont Windsor Park](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Egham-Hotels-Fairmont-Windsor-Park.h60335617.Hotel-Information) > > [Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hook-Hotels-Four-Seasons-Hotel-Hampshire.h986107.Hotel-Information) > > [Hilton Garden Inn Silverstone](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Towcester-Hotels-Hilton-Garden-Inn-Silverstone.h48251404.Hotel-Information) > > [Radisson Hotel Manchester City Centre, A Verified Net Zero Hotel](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Manchester-Hotels-Park-Inn-By-Radisson-Manchester-City-Centre.h2601411.Hotel-Information) > > [De Vere Tortworth Court](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Bristol-Hotels-De-Vere-Tortworth-Court.h570412.Hotel-Information) > > [Redworth Hall Hotel](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Newton-Aycliffe-Hotels-Redworth-Hall-Hotel.h517266.Hotel-Information) > > [Royal Whitby](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Whitby-Hotels-The-Royal-Hotel.h57917040.Hotel-Information) > > [Teesdale holiday cottage, sleeps 4 + dog at Bank Top, Mickleton, Barnard Castle](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Barnard-Castle-Hotels-A-2-Bed.h63001229.Hotel-Information) > > [The Windermere Hotel](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Windermere-Hotels-The-Windermere-Hotel.h13431161.Hotel-Information) > > [Harbour Hotel Christchurch](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Christchurch-Hotels-The-Christchurch-Harbour-Hotel-And-Spa.h18097.Hotel-Information) > > [Hampton by Hilton Bristol Airport](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Bristol-Hotels-Hampton-By-Hilton-Bristol-Airport.h16543862.Hotel-Information) > > [De Vere Wokefield Estate](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Reading-Hotels-De-Vere-Wokefield-Estate.h1044123.Hotel-Information) ---