Day Five. Locks and antique shops

The castle was built in stone in 1095-1125 and expanded between 1125 and 1185. Recently the place became nationally famous thanks to British politician Dominic Cummings. A year ago, at the height of the lockdown, he traveled to Durham and visited Barnard with his family, then explained his trip by saying that he wanted his eyesight checked before his journey to London. The story led to a major political scandal and, a year later, became a famous joke. However, Barnard Castle, which today is a very picturesque ruin, only benefited from it. As the caretaker told us, after Cummings' visit, many people began to stop by for tours.

The mini-town of Barnard Castle is a mecca for antique lovers. Vintage and antique shops are around the corner, and there's really a lot to find here, from antique furniture to World War II newspapers. And the prices will especially please people who are used to paying triple-dollar prices for such artifacts.

Another castle on our list is Raby. It is located in a huge deer reserve near the village of Steindrop in County Durham. It was the home of the ancient Neville family of nobility back in the 13th century. The castle has preserved its aristocratic interiors and a large collection of paintings, and is surrounded by an incredibly beautiful park.

Filled with impressions with gingerbread in our pockets we return to London, stopping on the way to York, a majestic city with a huge and beautiful cathedral, medieval streets and walls and the ineffable atmosphere of old England.