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The Ancient Unicorn in Bowes, County Durham, is a historic coaching inn, where history meets ghost stories…
The Ancient Unicorn, in the historic village of Bowes in County Durham, has not only been a resting place for travelers navigating the Pennines, but has also witnessed many ghostly encounters.
The story of The Ancient Unicorn is said to date back to the 16th century, when it first served as a coaching inn.
Strategically located to guard the route from Scotland, this establishment would have played a crucial role in resisting Scottish raids. There are claims that the inn withstood a siege led by the infamous Robert the Bruce in 1322, which left nearby Bowes Castle in ruins. This despite the fact that the inn was only built in the 16th century. Perhaps it was a previous inn on the same site.
Whatever the truth, The Ancient Union is located in a very historic place. Traces of the Roman fort of Lavatrae are still visible in the fields south of St Giles’ Church, testament to the historical significance of this region.
The inn’s history is intertwined with that of the haunted Bowes Castle. Past residents, the ghosts of Roman garrison soldiers, return on the anniversary of a local massacre, adding to the eerie atmosphere of the place.
Near St Giles Church, with its medieval architecture and Norman doorway, is the grave of George Ashton Taylor, who inspired Charles Dickens’ character Smike in ‘Nicholas Nickleby’.
The ghosts of Edward and Emma, also known as Roger Railton and Martha Wrightson, have been sighted in this graveyard, haunting The Ancient Unicorn.
Ghosts of the old Unicorn
The tragic love story of Roger Railton and Martha Wrightson, which dates back to 1713, is at the heart of the inn’s haunted tales.
Both from innkeeping families, their love was met with hostility from parents who ran rival inns: the King’s Head and the George, now The Ancient Unicorn.
Roger’s untimely death from fever led to Martha’s heartbreak, and they were buried together. Their story was immortalized in a ballad and a poem, perpetuating their presence as restless spirits.
Besides the ill-fated lovers, other apparitions have been reported.
A mysterious 12-year-old boy is said to be roaming the cellars, a boy who was once imprisoned here.
A bearded man in a bowler hat and a lady in a gray Victorian dress are among the ghostly residents. Some have experienced pranks and mysterious touches, while others have heard unexplained noises at night.
How to visit the ancient unicorn
Today, The Ancient Unicorn continues to provide a welcoming retreat for travelers and visitors exploring the beauty of Teesdale and the North Pennines.
This charming inn offers cozy bedrooms with private bathrooms, tea and coffee making facilities and TV. A hearty English breakfast is also available in the restaurant, where culinary delights from Teesdale and beyond are freshly prepared with an emphasis on local produce.
The Ancient Unicorn is located in Bowes, near Barnard Castle. It is easily accessible, 4.8 miles from Bowes Museum and within reach of several historic sites including Brough Castle and Richmond Castle.
The Ancient Unicorn is an ideal base for walkers and cyclists exploring the Pennine Way and the Teesdale Way, and also offers secure storage for cyclists. The beautiful surroundings of Teesdale offer many outdoor activities, from horse riding to bird watching. You might even see a ghost!
Have you visited The Ancient Unicorn in Bowes and seen a ghost? Tell us in the comments below!
