The historic town of Barnard Castle in County Durham, Northeast England, actually does have a castle - a bit of a ruin overlooking the town. But, even better, it has a lovely place to stay and a charming place to dine. That's the word from Valerie France, our friend in the north.

Valerie has ID'd this strangely named town for great weekending, with good country walks nearby. You might even spot some alpacas like these grazing nearby, happy as Larry even though they are continents away from their native Andes.

Check out her reviews:

Greta House B&B

Blagraves House

_{Photo by Valerie France}