The Rose & Crown, Barnard Castle

A stone built inn in an attractive Teesdale village .I first came here back in the mid 1970’s when it was a rare outlet for real ale in County Durham,selling a welcome pint of Theakstons.We’ve been back a few times more recently, and Theakstons (and Black Sheep)is still available.The cosy bar is to the left of the panelled entrance lobby-a few tables and chairs, and open fire .To the right,a large room laid up for fine dining.As befits a hotel, the atmosphere is pleasantly old world and low key. We sat in the bar,by the fire that was being coaxed into life by a friendly barmaid, and enjoyed a well presented,if not exactly cheap, midweek lunch.On the bar,alongside the usual keg and lager founts,were three hand pumps offering beers,as mentioned above,from Masham,including Reaper( a rye based seasonal red ale from Black Sheep,enthusiastically spiced with various North American hops.) The Rose and Crown has fourteen bedrooms:probably outside our price bracket,but I could imagine enjoying a few days here.Dog friendly.

Official site of the Rose & Crown pub at Romaldkirk - www.rose-and-crown.co.uk

Official site of the Rose & Crown pub at Romaldkirk - www.rose-and-crown.co.uk