Text taken from the 1935 Barnard Castle official guide `A Modern Town with Great Historical Associations` published by the Barnard Castle and District Publicity Society. Price threepence. (Put it better than I ever could)
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When you come to Barnard castle you are in the ancient capital of Teesdale - A town with a history going back to the Norman Conquest, for the castle round which the town has grown up and which still dominates its charming position on the bank of the Tees, was built on land which was given by William Rufus, about the year 1093 to Guy de Baliol, who had come to england with the Conqueror (William I).
It was Guys son and successor, Bernard Baliol, who between the years 1112 and 1132, erected the mighty structure which bears his name. Of his power the extensive ruins still remain in eloquent attestation.
The Castle remained a fortress until 1569 when during the Great Rebellion in the reign of Queen Elizabeth, it suffered siege, being held in the queens name by Sir George Bowes of Streatlam for eleven days against the insurgents before that gallant defender surrendered it "for want of provisions, upon honorable terms, being allowed to depart with arms, ammunition and baggage." However, the siege had the desired effect of delaying the march of the insurgents to such an extent that the suppression of the rebellion was inevitable.
Three hundred years have passed since Barnard Castle was last inhabited, for in the year 1630 the dismantling began, and from time to time the fortress that once was has gradually been reduced to its present day condition, its walls, no doubt, having from time to time served as a free quarry for local builders in search of material for erecting houses in the town. (A lot of the stone found its way into the building of Raby Castle at Staindrop.).
Highly favoured with an environment of exquisite beauty, free from the excitement and turmoil of more popular rendezvous, situate on the "drier side of Britain" ('eh!) 600 feet above sea level, with ample shelter from cold wind (what!) yet with all enjoying sunshine in abundance. (oh I give up!)
Barnard Castle is an ideal health resort particularly for those who seek a rest cure and those who wish to spend a more active holiday amidst sylvan surroundings. The town possesses an excellent water supply and public health statistics stamp it as one of the healthiest towns in the North of England.
