Located in the Pennine hills is the small village of Bowes in County Durham, close to Barnard Castle and built around the medieval Bowes Castle. Bowes is on the Roman road through Stainmore leading to Catacatonium (Catterick) on the other side of the Pennines. The A66 and A67 roads meet at Bowes. It appears that the castle, built soon after the Norman Conquest in 1066 by Alan, Earl of Richmond, was constructed on the foundations of the old Roman fort Lavatrae indicating the strategic location. Lavatrae was the Roman name for its army station there. It was the site of many conflicts over the centuries, reporting to have been besieged by Scottish king William in 1173 and apparently so badly damaged that it needed reconstruction. Charles Dickens stayed in the 17th century coaching inn and only pub in the village, the Ancient Unicorn. He found inspiration for Dotheby’s Hall in Nicholas Nickleby from the village academy in Bowes and the graves of two of the characters portrayed by the author remain in Bowes churchyard to this day. The Bowes Museum houses one of the greatest collections of European fine and decorative arts in England and runs an acclaimed exhibition programme alongside other events.
Cottage
Pub and Bar
School
Hutchinson C of E Primary School
Shops
Coach Horses Cafe & Farm
Bowes Village Shop
Places to Stay near Bowes
Ancient Unicorn (0.09 miles)
Nestling high on the North Pennines, in an area of outstanding natural beauty, this historic 16th century coaching inn offers a traditional warm welcome. We serve excellent freshly cooked meals ... More
Old Well Inn (3.78 miles)
recently completely refurbished 17th century coaching inn nestled against the Castle wall and surrounded by antique shops, beautiful scenery, hills, rivers and historic houses. Real ale, great food and a ... More
Marwood House (4.06 miles)
Strathmore Lawn East (4.09 miles)
Red Well Inn (4.41 miles)
The Red Well is located in an area of outstanding natural beauty recenty refurbished to a high standard with a private carpark. We offer great food either in our retaurant ... More
Lily Hill Farm (4.69 miles)
Jersey Farm Hotel (4.75 miles)
A haven of peace and quiet, somewhere to relax enjoy good food good company and a memorable time. Jersey Farm Country Hotel has been owner run for over 28 years. From a ... More
The Morritt (5.31 miles)
This beautiful hotel provides accommodation for holiday makers as well as those wanting to get away for weekend breaks. Diners are always welcome to eat in the 'a la carte' restaurant, bistro, bar or our ... More | visit website
Rose & Crown Hotel (The) (5.35 miles)
The inn has 12 bedrooms, all individually designed and with luxury bathrooms. Two of the rooms have ... More | visit website
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