Overview

The grounds were mostly accessible though over rough ground/grass for the most part, the few buildings left were inaccessible due to low walls and stonework. Obviously the upper levels and tower were completely inaccessible. No audio guide but a few information panels dotted around - though sim of these were located in places I couldn't reach. There's considerable scope for improvement in access if English Heritage are minded. Dogs allowed on leads.

Transport & Parking

We parked in the nearest public car park which was about ten minutes push away. On the way back we passed a bay in the Main Street just opposite the castle - however the markings were so faded, they were hard to make out when right next to them let alone in a car! Didn't see any closer blue badge parking or any parking dedicated to castle visits. Buses must pass through Barnard Castle but not sure where they stop.

Access

The path into the castle and by the ticket office is good and level (just a short section of cobbles through the main gate). However the area across the main 'town ward" is grassed and a bit bumpy. Over the far side there's a rough path and several bridges/boardwalks which are not too difficult but a bit uneven in places. There are a couple of places where the path crosses stonework that would benefit from a small ramp. Near the. Great Hall, there's a huge section which a wheelchair could manage but you have to get across a small raised section of stonework - a small wooden ramp would easily get across this! As it is I just had to watch my companion go off without me into this area. The photo shows me parked by the stairs - to either side of the stairs was stonework I couldn't pass, so that whole area was out of reach to me.

Toilets

There is but one toilet and it is equipped with grab rails etc which is great. However the push button flush was broken so very hard to use and the hand drier was on the other side of the room with no grab rails to help me reach it, let alone balance by it! The loo had a clear sign outside indicated it was accessible.

Staff

Ticket office lady was friendly but no other staff.

Anything else you wish to tell us?

I enjoyed my visit but feel simple improvements would be a great help eg fix the flush on the loo, put grab rails by the hand drier, consider wooden ramps on the areas of stonework that get in the way of wheelchairs. I've seen it done at monuments in Scotland (simple ramps that don't damage the infrastructure beneath them) and it makes such a difference. Concessionary rate for disabled visitors.

Photos