Barnard Castle on the map
Built-up area2.2 km² (0.8 sq mi)
Location in County DurhamBarnard Castle sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Barnard Castle
Barnard Castle is a town in County Durham, England, situated in the Tees Valley. It lies within the DL12 postcode area and is known for its historic castle, which dates back to the 12th century and offers views over the River Tees. The castle, though now in ruins, remains a prominent landmark and is managed by English Heritage. The town itself has a mix of traditional and modern buildings, with a central shopping area and several local businesses. The surrounding countryside is rural and scenic, with walking trails along the river and nearby hills. Barnard Castle is easily accessible by road and rail, with a station on the Durham–Middlesbrough line. It serves as a local hub for the surrounding villages and is a popular destination for visitors interested in history and outdoor activities.
School Ratings in Barnard Castle
Families in Barnard Castle have access to 8 local schools. Montalbo Nursery & Primary School and Teesdale School and Sixth Form are each rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 1 school holds a Good rating.
House Prices in Barnard Castle
Homes sell for an average of £263K locally. Most of the housing is made up of detached homes, averaging £340K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Barnard Castle
Crime in the area is lower than the national average. Public order is the leading concern across Barnard Castle, with 1 incidents recorded in April 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Barnard Castle
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Barnard Castle around the national average for deprivation. Employment rates locally are in line with what is seen across England. Residents in the area generally earn above the national average.
Healthcare in Barnard Castle
There are 3 GP surgeries within three miles of Barnard Castle, the nearest being Barnard Castle Surgery (0.1 miles away).
Local Data for Barnard Castle
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Property Prices 2,008 sales
Schools & Education 8 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the DL12 postcode area.
Household Income in Barnard Castle ONS 2023
The average total household income in Barnard Castle is approximately £43,915 a year before tax, 21% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £36,090. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £36,090.
Businesses in Barnard Castle ONS 2025
There are approximately 837 active businesses based in Barnard Castle, around 69 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 92% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 5 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Barnard Castle IMD 2025
Deprivation levels in Barnard Castle are around the national average based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment is accessible for most residents and household incomes reflect the broader national picture. The area maintains a steady balance between affordability and quality of life.
Crime in Barnard Castle 6 crimes · April 2026
Crime levels in Barnard Castle are lower than the England and Wales average. While violence & sexual offences is the most frequently recorded category, the overall picture is one of a settled and secure small town where serious incidents remain uncommon.
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.
Location
Nearby Towns & Villages 12 found
Local Government
Home Ownership in Barnard Castle
Of the 5,615 households in and around Barnard Castle, 68% are owned, 13% are socially rented and 19% are privately rented. Home ownership here is higher than the England and Wales average of 63%.
Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Barnard Castle.