Title: The Ancient Unicorn Reviews, Deals & Photos 2026 - Expedia.co.uk [See all properties](http://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?regionId=&selected=19657058&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) ![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) ![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) - 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 [Feb 4 - Feb 5](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-02-04&endDate=2026-02-05&selected=19657058&PinnedHotelID=19657058&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-02-04&endDate=2026-02-05&selected=19657058&PinnedHotelID=19657058&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) Tomorrow [Feb 5 - Feb 6](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-02-05&endDate=2026-02-06&selected=19657058&PinnedHotelID=19657058&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-02-05&endDate=2026-02-06&selected=19657058&PinnedHotelID=19657058&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) This weekend [Feb 6 - Feb 8](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-02-06&endDate=2026-02-08&selected=19657058&PinnedHotelID=19657058&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-02-06&endDate=2026-02-08&selected=19657058&PinnedHotelID=19657058&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) Next weekend [Feb 13 - Feb 15](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-02-13&endDate=2026-02-15&selected=19657058&PinnedHotelID=19657058&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-02-13&endDate=2026-02-15&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 Separate bedroom Premium bedding Microwave Oven Coffee/tea maker Electric kettle - 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 Separate bedroom Premium bedding Private bathroom Hairdryer Electric kettle Coffee/tea maker 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 Separate bedroom Premium bedding Electric kettle Coffee/tea maker - 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 Separate bedroom Premium bedding Electric kettle Coffee/tea maker 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 Separate bedroom Premium bedding Private bathroom Hairdryer Electric kettle Coffee/tea maker 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 Separate bedroom Premium bedding Private bathroom Hairdryer Electric kettle Coffee/tea maker 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 Separate bedroom Premium bedding Private bathroom Hairdryer Electric kettle Coffee/tea maker 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 Separate bedroom Blackout curtains Private bathroom Hairdryer - 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 Blackout curtains Separate bedroom Premium bedding 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 Barnard Castle is home to The Ancient Unicorn. Bowes Museum and Swaledale Museum are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Eggleston Hall and Walworth Castle Birds of Prey. National Railway Museum at Shildon and The Forbidden Corner are also worth visiting. Take the opportunity to explore the area for outdoor excitement like hiking/biking trails. [Visit our Barnard Castle travel guide](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Barnard-Castle.dx182443) [View more Guest houses in Barnard Castle](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Barnard-Castle-Guest-Houses.d182443-aaGuestHouses.Travel-Guide-Accommodation) ![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 - ![A woman crossing a stile on the Pennine Way, English Countryside walk.UK; Shutterstock ID 275558420; Purchase Order: -](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/3000655548/cf8dcb66-4453-42e4-8081-0dd828736be5.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=115.61&rh=65.03&ra=fit&q=high) North Pennines 16 min walk \- 0.9 miles - ![0_353007](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6046377/470e79f2-8dc7-4ed1-b07e-8e4310e98748.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=115.61&rh=65.03&ra=fit&q=high) Yorkshire Dales National Park 20 min drive \- 19.7 miles - ![A little known gem within Durham. A lovely walk through the gardens to the Greenhouses](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/4628/644da214-90a4-4f55-99b2-73af718cc7d3.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=115.61&rh=65.03&ra=fit&q=high) Durham University 42 min drive \- 33.4 miles - ![This is a great place to visit in the North of England. It’s like stepping back in time to visit a town, farm, colliery village and old hall and getting to experience what it was like to live in those places from about 1910 onwards. There are staff who take on the roles of various locals that really bring this place to life. This picture is from the town where you can explore a bank, shops, pub, dentists and lots of other things as well as ride in traditional vehicles of the time. Such a brilliant experience.](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6079441/bdfb1ea6-98e4-4fa1-bd96-45268ac3058a.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=115.61&rh=65.03&ra=fit&q=high) Beamish Open Air Museum 58 min drive \- 43.9 miles - Barnard Castle 6 min drive \- 4.8 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 Milbank Arms 10 min drive - Ancient Unicorn Inn 1 min walk - Coach & Horses 7 min drive - The Morritt Country House Hotel 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 - Smoke-free property, outdoor furniture and coffee/tea in reception ## Similar properties ![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 82 reviews £69 includes taxes & fees 5 Feb - 6 Feb [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-02-05&endDate=2026-02-06&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 425 reviews £125 includes taxes & fees 5 Feb - 6 Feb [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-02-05&endDate=2026-02-06&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 - 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3 Mar [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-03-02&endDate=2026-03-03&selected=1600878&PinnedHotelID=1600878&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) [Compare similar properties](/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-02-18&endDate=2026-02-19&selected=19657058&PinnedHotelID=19657058&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2&comparePropertyIds=19657058,2287981,5953894,83666075,2297201) ## 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 ### 8.8 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 #### 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 #### 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 #### 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 ### 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 #### 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 #### 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 #### 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 ### 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 #### 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 ### 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 ### 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 ### 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 #### 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 ### 8/10 Good #### Lorna 21 Oct 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities Lovely historical property and good value for money. Quiet location, great stop off for travelling on the A66, with Barnard Castle just a short drive. Easy check into cosy courtyard cottage. Nicely decorated and furnished, though the bed would benefit from a better quality mattress. Friendly staff and good breakfast. Evening pub menu satisfactory but not exceptional. ##### Lorna Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024 ### 8/10 Good #### Sue 3 Apr 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort #### Quality accommodation/ disappointing dinner. Charming olde world inn. Beautiful room and nice original features. Very friendly staff. Superb breakfast (even did me porridge as can't manage a full english). Lovely views from our second floor room which was very spacious. Evening meal disappointed. Steak was too well-done - no pink in the middle/ sticky toffee pudding was very dry. ##### Sue Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025 ### 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 #### Brenda 18 Mar 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities We loved the quaintness of the hotel - it was beautiful too. The area is perfect for walking/rambling and was very quiet. The staff we encountered were lovely, kind, helpful and polite. And we particularly loved Gus, the resident doggie. Checking in was easy when we realised it was a staff-free experience and had to use codes and lock boxes to get the keys - simple and effective. ##### Brenda Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### John 23 Sept 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities The pub/hotel has evolved from a traditional coaching inn which has being doing basically the same job for over 400 years. Our room was basic, but had character (window seats) and the main facilities were fine (good bed, plenty of heating and lots of hot water). There is parking in the old cobbled coaching yard and the town of Bowes is quiet, but conveniently close to the A66. ##### John Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Jac 18 Jul 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort #### lovely little hideaway I stayed with 2 female friends in a small but comfy courtyard room. We stayed for tea on the night and it was gorgeous, the staff were friendly and accommodating swapping the meal to suit our needs. Next morning breakfast was included so we all had a large full English, veg option available. We will definitely be back. Small issue re damp smell in bathroom but loved the place. ##### Jac Stayed 1 night in Jul 2024 ### 8/10 Good #### John 12 Aug 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities A very convenient overnight stop on our drive north to Scotland. Lovely old building in the heart of the village. We arrived late but had been provided with codes that gave us access to our 3-person room, which was very comfortable and fine for an overnight stay but might be a bit small if you were staying longer. Very comfortable beds but rather a lot of noise from the adjacent room. Very good value for money - we would certainly consider returning to use the Ancient Unicorn as a base for exploring the local area. ##### John Stayed 1 night in Aug 2023 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Bill 7 Aug 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities We (couple adult daughter dog) stayed at the Ancient Unicorn to break the journey between East Anglia and Scotland. We arrived at the charming inn located in the centre of the lovely Pennine village of Bowes to be told that we had been upgraded to the Charles Dickens Cottage(!) because there was a problem with our booked room. The Cottage was immaculate and comfortable with a fantastic shower. Despite the fact that the staff were very busy because there was a folk group getting set up to play in the bar nothing was too much trouble for Karli and her staff to make us welcome. We had an excellent dinner of home-made food (made earlier in the day by Karli!) in the dog-friendly restaurant and then enjoyed a pint of real ale in the bar. And the cooked breakfast in the morning was fabulous. A perfect stay and so, so much better than a generic motorway hotel. The area is full of attractions in its own right (we had a quick look at the ruin of Bowes Castle just up the road) and we will be back! ##### Bill Stayed 1 night in Jul 2024 ## Expedia's Latest Trends ### Hotels > [Splash Landings Hotel](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Stoke-On-Trent-Hotels-Splash-Landings-Hotel.h1160988.Hotel-Information) > > [The Derwent Manor Boutique Hotel ](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Consett-Hotels-The-Derwent-Manor-Boutique-Hotel.h9535.Hotel-Information) > > [Bredbury Hall by Accor](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Stockport-Hotels-Bredbury-Hall.h64706.Hotel-Information) > > [The Teesdale Hotel](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Barnard-Castle-Hotels-The-Teesdale-Hotel.h2288782.Hotel-Information) > > [Urban Beach Hotel](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Bournemouth-Hotels-Urban-Beach-Hotel.h2814369.Hotel-Information) > > [Ox Hotel Manchester](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Manchester-Hotels-Milton-Manchester-Hotel.h18787802.Hotel-Information) > > [Cambridge Belfry Hotel & Spa](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Cambridge-Hotels-Cambridge-Belfry.h1103020.Hotel-Information) > > [Cheltenham Chase Hotel & Spa](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Cheltenham-Hotels-Delta-By-Marriott-Cheltenham-Chase-Hotel.h9657.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) > > [Fisherman's Cot, Tiverton by Marston's Inns](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Tiverton-Hotels-Fishermans-Cot.h11900175.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) > > [DoubleTree by Hilton Manchester Airport](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Manchester-Hotels-DoubleTree-By-Hilton-Manchester-Airport.h26104.Hotel-Information) > > [Delta Hotels by Marriott Colchester](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Colchester-Hotels-Delta-Hotels-By-Marriott-Colchester.h14251.Hotel-Information) > > [Caverswall Castle](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Stoke-On-Trent-Hotels-Caverswall-Castle.h23959535.Hotel-Information) > > [Luxury caravan at Butlins Skegness](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Skegness-Hotels-Luxury-Caravan-At-Butlins-Skegness.h36376338.Hotel-Information) > > [Cherry Park Hall](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Worksop-Hotels-Cherry-Park-Hall.h15952872.Hotel-Information) > > [Britannia Hotel Manchester Airport](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Manchester-Hotels-Britannia-Hotel-Manchester-Airport.h2144.Hotel-Information) > > [Pine Lake Resort](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Carnforth-Hotels-Pine-Lake-Resort.h1928661.Hotel-Information) > > [Delta Hotels by Marriott Warwick](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Warwick-Hotels-M40-J15-Warwick-Hotel.h10444.Hotel-Information) > > [Saltmoore](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Whitby-Hotels-Raithwaite-Sandsend.h4276816.Hotel-Information) > > [Wychnor Park Country Club](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Burton-On-Trent-Hotels-Wychnor-Park-Country-Club.h1927715.Hotel-Information) > > [De Vere Tortworth Court](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Bristol-Hotels-De-Vere-Tortworth-Court.h570412.Hotel-Information) > > [The New French Partridge](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Northampton-Hotels-The-New-French-Partridge.h2288818.Hotel-Information) > > [Etrop Grange Hotel](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Manchester-Hotels-Etrop-Grange.h49116.Hotel-Information) > > [Lakeside Lodge with 6 berth hot tub and private fishing peg](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Lincoln-Hotels-Delightful-Lakeside-Lodge-With-Hot-Tub-Private-Fishing-Peg-With-Stunning-View.h27123912.Hotel-Information) > > [Northlands Farm & Lakes](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Chichester-Hotels-Northlands-Farm-Lakes-Premium-Chalet-1.h37797465.Hotel-Information) > > [Cave Hotel & Golf Resort](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Faversham-Hotels-Cave-Hotel-Golf-Resort.h33410673.Hotel-Information) > > [DoubleTree by Hilton Stoke on Trent](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Stoke-On-Trent-Hotels-DoubleTree-By-Hilton-Stoke-On-Trent.h6788.Hotel-Information) > > [Makeney Hall Hotel](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Belper-Hotels-Makeney-Hall-Hotel.h1206529.Hotel-Information) ---