Fitzhugh Library

You'll find this library tucked away in Barnard Castle, a market town that punches well above its weight for a place of its size. Fitzhugh Library is a proper working collection, small and focused rather than one of those sprawling civic affairs. Opening hours are tight - just Monday and Tuesday, 10:30 to 14:30 - so you need to plan around them. The appeal here depends entirely on what you're after. If you're into local history, rare books, or simply fancy browsing a genuine community space rather than a modern leisure facility, it's worth the trip. Kids will find it dull unless they're already readers, and there's no café or activity space to pad out your visit. What you get instead is authenticity. This isn't a tourist attraction dressed up as a library; it's the real thing. Allow 45 minutes to an hour if you're serious, less if you're just poking around. The town itself - with its impressive castle ruins and riverside walks - makes a decent morning or afternoon base. If you're staying at Leekworth Caravan Park or Mickleton Mill, both barely a mile away, it's an easy add-on to a larger day out rather than a destination in itself. Winter opening hours might catch you out, so ring ahead. Admission details aren't advertised online, so assume you'll pay something modest or bring exact change just in case.