Best places to eat in Barnard Castle according to reviews
Barnard Castle, perched on the banks of the River Tees in the heart of County Durham, was crowned one of the UKβs best market towns to visit earlier in 2025.
Here are some of the best places in Barnard Castle to eat according to Tripadvisor reviews.
Valentine’s
Located at 11 Galgate, Valentine’s has a score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 745 reviews and serves homemade lunches and evening meals.
One customer said: “We just had the most amazing meal with fantastic service from the waitress and the owners, which all made us feel so welcome and relaxed.
“I recommend the Lasagna, and my husband said the Belly pork is the best heβs ever had (which is a lot). We look forward to the warmer evenings so we can sit in the gorgeous garden.”
The Three Horseshoes Hotel
Situated at 5-7 Galgate, The Three Horseshoes Hotel has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,147 reviews.
Guests frequently praise the friendly and attentive service, and the ‘generous portions and quality of dishes’, like Sunday roasts and steaks, are also noted.
One reviewer said: “This lovely hotel is very central for Barnard Castle.
“Although an old building, it has been modernised and is very comfortable.
“Breakfast is really faultless, there is everything you could possibly want and the staff are polite and helpful.”
Babul’s
Located at 9 Market Place, Babul’s has a score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 849 reviews.
The award-winning South Asian restaurant brings a lively atmosphere to the heart of a historic market town.
One satisfied customer said: “Visited Barnard Castle Babuls after a great experience at their sister restaurant in Darlington, and we werenβt disappointed.
“A midweek early evening dinner, so it wasnβt too busy but definitely popular.
“The staff couldnβt have been more helpful, and we particularly liked the iPad service call button and being able to add drinks to the order on there.”
The Crown at Mickleton
Located in Mickleton, The Crown at Mickleton has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 696 reviews.
It is a ‘rustic-chic lodging’ with kitchen, accommodation and countryside views, offering high-quality, locally sourced food, real ales and fine wines.
A customer said: “What a hidden Gem!
“Lovely site, in a quiet village, very peaceful, with a couple of nice walks virtually from the site, and a good evening meal.
“But my oh my – the Sunday Lunch is incredible!
“Absolutely amongst the best weβve ever had.
“And staff are lovely, so helpful – weβd made a mess of our booking but they let us stay in the car park, and arranged electrics too.”
Clarendon’s Cafe
Situated at 29 Market Place, Clarendon’s has a score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 389 reviews.
Clarendon’s is situated in a 16th-century Grade II listed building in the heart of Barnard Castle. It is a traditional tearoom with a ‘contemporary twist’.
A regular customer said: “Our regular βgo toβ cafe/tearoom.
“The service is always impeccable from Chloe and all the waiting team and the food is outstanding!
“Set in a lovely, clean, airy environment the food is amazing!
“Yesterday my wife and I called for lunch and new on the menu was shredded beef with Diane sauce and seasonal vegetables – wow!! Absolutely delicious!”