Title: The Ancient Unicorn Guesthouse - Latest Reviews, Deals & Photos 2025 - Expedia.ca [See all properties](http://www.expedia.ca/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 ![Classic Twin Room, Ensuite | Lounge](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/20000000/19660000/19657100/19657058/5a852713.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=598&ra=fit) ![Classic Twin Room, Ensuite | Private kitchen](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/20000000/19660000/19657100/19657058/61e78859.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Classic Double Room, Ensuite](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/20000000/19660000/19657100/19657058/77eced7a.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Bar (on property)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/20000000/19660000/19657100/19657058/69aa9a5a.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Bar (on property)](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. 9.0 Wonderful ## Popular amenities - - Bar - Pet-friendly - Parking included - Free WiFi ## Room options ### Check availability for these dates Tonight [Oct. 4 - Oct. 5](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-10-04&endDate=2025-10-05&selected=19657058&PinnedHotelID=19657058&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-10-04&endDate=2025-10-05&selected=19657058&PinnedHotelID=19657058&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) Tomorrow [Oct. 5 - Oct. 6](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-10-05&endDate=2025-10-06&selected=19657058&PinnedHotelID=19657058&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-10-05&endDate=2025-10-06&selected=19657058&PinnedHotelID=19657058&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) This weekend [Oct. 10 - Oct. 12](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-10-10&endDate=2025-10-12&selected=19657058&PinnedHotelID=19657058&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-10-10&endDate=2025-10-12&selected=19657058&PinnedHotelID=19657058&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) Next weekend [Oct. 17 - Oct. 19](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-10-17&endDate=2025-10-19&selected=19657058&PinnedHotelID=19657058&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-10-17&endDate=2025-10-19&selected=19657058&PinnedHotelID=19657058&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) All rooms 1 bed 2 beds Showing 9 of 9 rooms ![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 Refrigerator Separate bedroom Premium bedding Microwave Stovetop Oven Electric kettle - 1 bedroom - Sleeps 2 - 2 Twin Beds ![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 Hair dryer Electric kettle Coffee/tea maker Digital channels - 1 bedroom - Sleeps 2 - 1 Double Bed ![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 ![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 Twin Beds ![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 8.0 Very good 2 reviews ### Highlights Heating Separate bedroom Premium bedding Private bathroom Hair dryer Electric kettle Coffee/tea maker Pet friendly - 1 bedroom - Sleeps 2 - 1 Double Bed ![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 Hair dryer Electric kettle Coffee/tea maker Pet friendly - 1 bedroom - Sleeps 2 - 1 Double Bed ![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 Hair dryer Electric kettle Coffee/tea maker Digital channels - 1 bedroom - Sleeps 3 - 1 Double Bed and 1 Twin Bed ![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 Refrigerator Separate bedroom Blackout drapes/curtains Private bathroom Hair dryer - 1 bedroom - Sleeps 4 - 1 Double Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed ![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 Separate bedroom Blackout drapes/curtains Premium bedding Digital channels Pet friendly - 194 sq ft - 1 bedroom - Sleeps 3 - 1 Twin 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.ca/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.ca/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 - Barnard Castle - 6 min drive - 7.7 km - Bowes Museum - 7 min drive - 8.7 km - Raby Castle - 19 min drive - 21.2 km - Yorkshire Dales National Park - 21 min drive - 31.7 km - High Force - 31 min drive - 28.9 km #### 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 - ‪Red Well Inn - ‬9 min drive - ‪Three Horse Shoes - ‬7 min drive - ‪Coach & Horses - ‬7 min drive ## About this property ### The Ancient Unicorn Property highlights The Ancient Unicorn provides amenities like free breakfast and a bar. Stay connected with free WiFi in public areas. Other perks at this guesthouse include: - Free self parking - Smoke-free premises ## Similar properties ![Double Room](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/119000000/118670000/118664900/118664826/1d0d4068.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### The Fox Hall Inn Richmond - Breakfast included - Pet-friendly - Parking included - Free WiFi 9.2 Wonderful 34 reviews CA $172 CA $206 total includes taxes & fees Oct 5 - Oct 6 [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-10-05&endDate=2025-10-06&selected=118664826&PinnedHotelID=118664826&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Terrace/patio](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/3000000/2300000/2297300/2297201/cd9ddc65.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### The Old Well Inn Barnard Castle - Breakfast included - Pet-friendly - Free WiFi - Restaurant 8.2 Very good 163 reviews CA $116 CA $140 total includes taxes & fees Oct 24 - Oct 25 [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-10-24&endDate=2025-10-25&selected=2297201&PinnedHotelID=2297201&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Restaurant](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/92000000/91920000/91916200/91916115/370e4089.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Shoulder of Mutton Richmond - Breakfast included - Pet-friendly - Parking included - Free WiFi 9.4 Exceptional 76 reviews CA $162 CA $195 total includes taxes & fees Oct 5 - Oct 6 [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-10-05&endDate=2025-10-06&selected=91916115&PinnedHotelID=91916115&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Exterior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/3000000/2290000/2288000/2287981/0a7f4757.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### The Redwell Inn Barnard Castle - Breakfast included - Parking included - Free WiFi - Restaurant 7.6 Good 80 reviews CA $118 CA $141 total includes taxes & fees Oct 6 - Oct 7 [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-10-06&endDate=2025-10-07&selected=2287981&PinnedHotelID=2287981&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/db441513.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 WiFi 8.0 Very good 235 reviews CA $112 CA $135 total includes taxes & fees Oct 21 - Oct 22 [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-10-21&endDate=2025-10-22&selected=11899080&PinnedHotelID=11899080&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Exterior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/6000000/5960000/5953900/5953894/eea99d6e.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### The Three Horseshoes Hotel Barnard Castle - Breakfast included - Parking included - Free WiFi - Restaurant 9.6 Exceptional 405 reviews CA $188 CA $225 total includes taxes & fees Oct 5 - Oct 6 [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-10-05&endDate=2025-10-06&selected=5953894&PinnedHotelID=5953894&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Exterior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/3000000/2290000/2283400/2283355/w346h261x0y0-fef7fdde.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Brunswick House Barnard Castle - Breakfast included - Free WiFi - Housekeeping 9.6 Exceptional 96 reviews CA $188 CA $225 total includes taxes & fees Oct 5 - Oct 6 [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-10-05&endDate=2025-10-06&selected=2283355&PinnedHotelID=2283355&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Junior Suite](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/89000000/88100000/88090300/88090210/c645999a.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Runa Farm Barnard Castle - Pet-friendly - Parking included - Free WiFi - Restaurant 9.4 Exceptional 84 reviews CA $224 CA $269 total includes taxes & fees Nov 4 - Nov 5 [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-11-04&endDate=2025-11-05&selected=88090210&PinnedHotelID=88090210&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/31000000/30940000/30935600/30935541/331f5e3d.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### The World Famous Tan Hill Inn Richmond - Breakfast included - Pet-friendly - Parking included - Free WiFi 8.8 Excellent 85 reviews CA $139 CA $167 total includes taxes & fees Oct 6 - Oct 7 [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-10-06&endDate=2025-10-07&selected=30935541&PinnedHotelID=30935541&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Luxury Suite, Accessible](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/105000000/104340000/104334900/104334859/4faa3b0b.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Wilding Hotel Kirkby Stephen - Breakfast included - Parking included - Free WiFi - Restaurant 9.6 Exceptional 20 reviews CA $208 CA $250 total includes taxes & fees Oct 8 - Oct 9 [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-10-08&endDate=2025-10-09&selected=104334859&PinnedHotelID=104334859&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ## Property amenities ### Internet - Available in some public areas: Free WiFi ### Parking and transportation - Free self parking on site ### Food and drink - Free breakfast available - A bar/lounge ### Guest services - Housekeeping (weekly) ### Accessibility - No elevator ### More - Smoking not allowed ## Policies ### Check-in Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime Contactless check-in available Minimum check-in age: 18 ### Check-out Check-out before 10:00 AM Contactless check-out available ### Special check-in instructions Guests will receive lockbox information ### Access methods Lockbox ### Pets Pets 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 ### Property payment types ## 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 ### We should mention This property does not have elevators This property's policy is to refuse certain bookings for the purpose of group events or parties, including pre-wedding stag/bachelor and hen/bachelorette 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? > Yes, dogs are allowed at this property. There's a fee of GBP 10.00 per pet, per stay. Service animals are exempt from fees. ### How much is parking at The Ancient Unicorn? > Self parking is free at this property. ### What time is check-in at The Ancient Unicorn? > Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime. ### What time is check-out at The Ancient Unicorn? > Check-out is at 10:00 AM. ### Where is The Ancient Unicorn located? > Situated in Barnard Castle, this guesthouse is 0.8 mi (1.3 km) from North Pennines and within 6 mi (10 km) of Barnard Castle and Bowes Museum. Eggleston Hall and Raby Castle are also within 12 mi (20 km). ## Have a question? Beta Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews. Ask a question ## 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.ca/lp/b/content-guidelines) 10 - Excellent 82 8 - Good 38 6 - Okay 6 4 - Poor 8 2 - Terrible 1 ### 9.0/10 Cleanliness ### 9.0/10 Staff & service ### 8.0/10 Amenities ### 8.8/10 Property conditions & facilities ### 8.2/10 Eco-friendliness ### 10/10 Excellent #### Louisa Jul 11, 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 Sep 8, 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 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Timothy Sep 7, 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities . ##### Timothy Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Hayley Mar 13, 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 Dec 7, 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort Lovely stay Very cosy ##### Tracy Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024 ### 8/10 Good #### Julian Jun 15, 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 Sep 30, 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities Very friendly, helpful staff. ##### Jean Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024 ### 6/10 Okay #### Alison Jul 20, 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 #### George May 8, 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 #### Markus Feb 25, 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 Mar 9, 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 #### Angela Sep 29, 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities Fabulous room . Helpful, friendly staff . Lovely food . ##### Angela Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024 ### 8/10 Good #### Sue Apr 3, 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 ### 8/10 Good #### David Apr 28, 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 ### 8/10 Good #### Lorna Oct 21, 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 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Verified traveller Jun 22, 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 #### suzanne Jun 26, 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 ### 10/10 Excellent #### jennifer Mar 1, 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 ### 10/10 Excellent #### John Sep 23, 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 #### S Jul 4, 2022 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort #### Ancient Unicorn Lovely Hotel full of character. It was comfortable, clean and the service was excellent. It was was very clean and well maintained throughout. Food was very good too. ##### S Stayed 1 night in Jul 2022 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Brenda Mar 18, 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 #### Alastair Sep 13, 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities Landlady was amazing. I arrived in a sorry state coming off the Pennine way. An hour later showered and fed I was on my way into BC in a taxi she organised. Room was clean and the whole place had been been repainted and felt looked after. ##### Alastair Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Jac Jul 18, 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 Aug 12, 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 Aug 7, 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 > [The Greenway Hotel & Spa](https://www.expedia.ca/Cheltenham-Hotels-The-Greenway-Hotel-Spa.h520203.Hotel-Information) > > [Marriott Niagara Falls Fallsview Hotel & Spa](https://www.expedia.ca/Niagara-Falls-Hotels-Marriott-Niagara-Falls-Fallsview-Hotel-Spa.h120155.Hotel-Information) > > [The Porch House](https://www.expedia.ca/Cheltenham-Hotels-The-Porch-House.h4595892.Hotel-Information) > > [The Belfry](https://www.expedia.ca/Birmingham-Hotels-The-Belfry.h3976.Hotel-Information) > > [Millcroft](https://www.expedia.ca/Penrith-Hotels-Millcroft.h26994538.Hotel-Information) > > [Radisson Hotel Manchester City Centre, A Verified Net Zero Hotel](https://www.expedia.ca/Manchester-Hotels-Park-Inn-By-Radisson-Manchester-City-Centre.h2601411.Hotel-Information) > > [Pine Lake Resort](https://www.expedia.ca/Carnforth-Hotels-Pine-Lake-Resort.h1928661.Hotel-Information) > > [Burgh Island Hotel](https://www.expedia.ca/Kingsbridge-Hotels-Burgh-Island-Hotel.h34611055.Hotel-Information) > > [Hotel Riu Palace Costa Mujeres - All Inclusive](https://www.expedia.ca/Cancun-Hotels-Riu-Palace-Costa-Mujeres-All-Inclusive.h23985441.Hotel-Information) > > [Holiday Inn Hull Marina by IHG](https://www.expedia.ca/Hull-Hotels-Holiday-Inn-Hull-Marina.h10609.Hotel-Information) > > [Holiday Inn London-Gatwick Airport by IHG](https://www.expedia.ca/Horley-Hotels-Holiday-Inn-London-Gatwick-Airport.h16918.Hotel-Information) > > [Cave Hotel & Golf Resort](https://www.expedia.ca/Faversham-Hotels-Cave-Hotel-Golf-Resort.h33410673.Hotel-Information) > > [Lakes Hotel and Spa](https://www.expedia.ca/Windermere-Hotels-Lakes-Hotel-And-Spa.h901040.Hotel-Information) > > [Best Western Parkway Hotel Toronto North](https://www.expedia.ca/Toronto-Hotels-Best-Western-Parkway-Hotel-Toronto-North.h39.Hotel-Information) > > [Delta Hotels by Marriott Heathrow Windsor](https://www.expedia.ca/Slough-Hotels-Heathrow-Windsor-Marriott-Hotel.h3830.Hotel-Information) > > [Royal Whitby](https://www.expedia.ca/Whitby-Hotels-The-Royal-Hotel.h57917040.Hotel-Information) > > [Super 8 by Wyndham Mississauga](https://www.expedia.ca/Toronto-Hotels-Super-8-By-Wyndham-Mississauga.h1499049.Hotel-Information) > > [Hotels in Prague](https://www.expedia.ca/Prague-Hotels.d180014.Travel-Guide-Hotels) > > [Hotels near Dartmouth Crossing](https://www.expedia.ca/Dartmouth-Crossing-Hotels.0-l6147302-0.Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels) > > [Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire](https://www.expedia.ca/Hook-Hotels-Four-Seasons-Hotel-Hampshire.h986107.Hotel-Information) ### Flights > [Flights from Toronto (YYZ) to Los Angeles (LAX)](https://www.expedia.ca/lp/flights/yyz/lax/toronto-to-los-angeles) > > [Flights from Dieppe (YQM) to Montreal (YUL)](https://www.expedia.ca/lp/flights/yqm/yul/moncton-to-montreal) > > [Flights from Pearson Intl. to NYC-All Airports](https://www.expedia.ca/lp/flights/yyz/nyc/toronto-to-new-york) > > [Flights from Calgary (YYC) to Orlando (MCO)](https://www.expedia.ca/lp/flights/yyc/mco/calgary-to-orlando) ### Cars > [Car rentals in Punta Cana](https://www.expedia.ca/Car-Rentals-In-Punta-Cana.d601906.Car-Rental-Guide) ### Packages > [Cabo San Lucas](https://www.expedia.ca/lp/theme-vacations/all-inclusive-vacations/180032/Cabo-San-Lucas) > > [Antalya Vacations](https://www.expedia.ca/Antalya.d481.Destination-Travel-Guides)