Tucked away in the quaint town of Barnard Castle, this centuries-old inn offers a cozy home base for exploring Northeast England’s castles and countryside.
Our visit revealed spotless rooms, friendly staff, and tasty grub. While some might find the creaky floors charming, light sleepers could be bothered.
The lack of an elevator might pose a challenge for those with mobility issues. Despite these minor hiccups, we think this place is a gem for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone looking to soak up small-town British charm.
It’s particularly well-suited for active travelers eager to hike the nearby trails or visit local attractions like the impressive Bowes Museum.
Good To Know
- The Three Horseshoes Hotel is a 17th-century building located in Barnard Castle, UK, within a mile of the River Tees.
- The hotel offers easy access to popular attractions like High Force Waterfall, Bowes Museum, and Raby Castle.
- With an impressive 9.1 overall rating from over 1,500 reviews, the hotel is praised for its excellent staff, cleanliness, and facilities.
- Guests can enjoy a variety of accommodation options, including superior king rooms, family rooms, and rooms with disability access.
- The hotel provides a buffet breakfast with full English/Irish, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, as well as an on-site bar and restaurant.
Hotel Overview
The Three Horseshoes Hotel resides in a 17th-century building situated in the historic market town of Barnard Castle, UK.
Located at 7 Galgate, DL12 8EQ, the hotel is less than a mile from the River Tees and offers proximity to attractions like High Force Waterfall, Bowes Museum, and Raby Castle.
With a superb location rating of 9.6 based on 1,520 reviews, the hotel provides an ideal base for exploring the region’s natural and cultural highlights.
Location and Proximity
Located in the historic market town of Barnard Castle, the Three Horseshoes Hotel sits at 7 Galgate, DL12 8EQ, less than a mile from the picturesque River Tees.
The hotel’s prime location offers easy access to several renowned attractions:
- High Force Waterfall, a 26-minute drive away
- Bowes Museum, just 3 minutes by car
- Raby Castle, a 13-minute drive from the hotel
The hotel’s proximity to these landmarks and the River Tees provides guests with a wealth of sightseeing opportunities.
Rated 9.6 for location based on over 1,500 reviews, the Three Horseshoes Hotel’s strategic position in Barnard Castle ensures a convenient and enjoyable stay for all visitors.
Guest Ratings and Reviews
Guests have overwhelmingly praised the Three Horseshoes Hotel, awarding it an impressive 9.1 rating from over 1,500 reviews.
They commended the excellent staff (9.6) and the hotel’s cleanliness (9.6), comfort (9.5), and facilities (9.3). Reviewers frequently lauded the delicious breakfast, spacious and clean rooms, friendly service, and great location.
Guests particularly enjoyed the evening meals and the overall ambiance of the 17th-century building.
With such positive feedback, it’s clear the Three Horseshoes Hotel provides an exceptional experience for its visitors.
Hotel Facilities and Amenities
Though a 17th-century building, the Three Horseshoes Hotel offers a range of modern amenities and facilities to enhance guests’ stays.
The hotel features:
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the property
- On-site bar and restaurant serving delicious meals
- Family rooms accommodating guests of all ages
- Facilities and accessibility for guests with disabilities
- Outdoor terrace and garden areas for relaxation
Guests can enjoy a varied buffet breakfast, private parking, room service, and a shared lounge and TV area.
The hotel’s thoughtful amenities and historic charm create a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all who visit.
Accommodation Options
The Three Horseshoes Hotel offers guests a variety of well-appointed room options to suit their needs. Guests can choose from Superior King Rooms, Family Rooms, King Rooms, King or Twin Rooms, and King Rooms with Disability Access.
For those seeking more independent accommodations, the hotel also provides offsite studio apartments and king rooms located just a short walk from the main building.
All rooms feature en-suite bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and scenic views, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.
Whether traveling solo, with family, or as part of a group, the hotel’s diverse range of accommodation options caters to the diverse needs of its guests.
Policies and Check-in/Check-out
Check-in at the Three Horseshoes Hotel is from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and guests must check out by 11:00 AM on the day of departure.
Children of any age are welcome, but pets aren’t allowed. The hotel doesn’t serve food on Sunday nights, so guests should plan accordingly.
Guests should inform the property of their estimated arrival time and any special requests in advance to ensure a smooth stay.
Plus, the hotel policies state:
- Check-in is from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Check-out is by 11:00 AM
- Children of any age are welcome
- Pets aren’t allowed
- Food isn’t served on Sunday nights
Dining and Breakfast Options
The Three Horseshoes Hotel’s buffet breakfast offers a variety of options to cater to different dietary needs. Guests can enjoy a full English/Irish breakfast, vegetarian dishes, and gluten-free choices. The menu also includes continental items such as pastries, cereals, and fresh fruit.
| Breakfast Options | Description |
|---|---|
| Full English/Irish | Includes eggs, bacon, sausage, tomatoes, and mushrooms |
| Vegetarian | Features vegetable-based dishes and meat-free alternatives |
| Gluten-free | Provides gluten-free bread, cereals, and other items |
| Continental | Offers a selection of pastries, cereals, and fresh fruit |
| Speciality Teas & Coffees | Variety of hot beverage options available |
The breakfast is served in a buffet-style, allowing guests to customize their meal to their liking. The hotel’s commitment to providing high-quality dining options ensures a satisfying start to the day.
Nearby Attractions
Guests at the Three Horseshoes Hotel can easily explore the area’s captivating attractions, with several notable sights just a short distance away.
The hotel’s prime location allows easy access to:
- High Force Waterfall, a stunning 70-foot cascade just a 26-minute drive from the hotel
- Bowes Museum, a renowned art museum just 3 minutes away by car
- Raby Castle, a 14th-century castle and historic estate a 13-minute drive from the hotel
- The River Tees, less than a mile from the hotel, offering scenic walking and outdoor adventures
- The charming market town of Barnard Castle, with its quaint shops and cafés, right on the hotel’s doorstep
With these attractions in close proximity, guests can easily explore the rich cultural and natural heritage of the region during their stay at the Three Horseshoes Hotel.
Questions About Staying Here
Can I Store My Luggage Before Check-In or After Check-Out?
Guests can store their luggage before check-in or after check-out. The hotel offers luggage storage services to accommodate early arrivals or late departures, allowing guests to explore the area hands-free.
Is There a Shuttle Service to Nearby Attractions?
The hotel does not offer a shuttle service to nearby attractions. However, it is located close to popular sites like High Force Waterfall, Bowes Museum, and Raby Castle, making it easy for guests to explore the area.
Do Rooms Have Air Conditioning or Fans for Warm Weather?
Rooms have electric fans to provide cooling during warm weather, though the hotel does not offer air conditioning. Guests can request a fan at reception if needed for their comfort during their stay.
Can I Request Early Check-In or Late Check-Out?
Guests can request early check-in or late check-out, subject to availability. The hotel’s standard check-in is from 3 pm to 9 pm, and check-out is until 11 am. Additional fees may apply for early/late requests.
What Payment Methods Are Accepted at the Hotel?
The hotel accepts a variety of payment methods, including major credit and debit cards. Guests can pay with Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover upon check-in or check-out. Cash payment is also an option.
Worth The Stay
The Three Horseshoes Hotel offers an exceptional stay in the heart of Barnard Castle. Its 17th-century charm, superb location, and top-rated accommodations make it an ideal choice for travelers. With a range of facilities, including a cozy bar and restaurant, the hotel caters to diverse guest needs. Whether seeking a relaxing retreat or a convenient base to explore the region, the Three Horseshoes Hotel promises an unforgettable experience in the English countryside.