Cotherstone Castle

Scrambling over grassy mounds and tumbled stone walls, you'll need a decent imagination to picture Cotherstone Castle in its medieval glory. This 12th-century fortress sits on a raised promontory above the River Tees, just outside the village of Cotherstone near Barnard Castle. What remains today are earthworks and fragmentary walls - enough to get a sense of the layout but little of the drama.

History buffs will appreciate the castle's strategic position overlooking the river crossing, while kids might find it a bit of a let-down after visiting more intact ruins like nearby Barnard Castle itself. The site's completely free to wander, which is just as well given how little survives above ground.

Allow about 30 minutes for a proper explore, though dedicated castle hunters could easily spend longer trying to make sense of the foundations. The approach from the village is straightforward enough, and it's a pleasant spot for a picnic on a sunny day.

For families staying at one of the holiday parks around Barnard Castle - Doe Park Caravan Park is closest at half a mile - it makes a decent addition to a day out rather than a destination in itself. Combine it with a trip to the much more impressive Barnard Castle for a proper medieval double-header.