A market was established below the castle in the 13th-c. The impressive octagonal stone pavilion of the Market Cross was built in 1747. The arcade surrounding its base once sheltered market traders and the upper floor served as a lockup, town hall and a courtroom.

Pedalman

October 3, 2024

Hiking

Interesting structure and history

JakobusPilger

June 29, 2025

Hiking

In the case of a "market cross," as we encounter here again, one would have to ask the fundamental question of whether it is actually primarily a small sacred monument—as its cross shape suggests—or whether it is more of a secular object. In times long past, such a cross—unlike classic wayside crosses or field crosses—was only allowed to be erected if the corresponding locality also possessed so-called "market rights"—that is, if it had been granted them by the local ruler.

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1. Barnard Castle Market Cross – Barnard Castle ruins loop from Cotherstone

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2. Barnard Castle Market Cross – Barnard Castle ruins loop from Startforth

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3. Barnard Castle Market Cross – Barnard Castle ruins loop from Barnard Castle

8.72km

02:19

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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Elevation 160 m

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Wednesday 11 March

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Location: Barnard Castle, North East England, England, United Kingdom

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Barnard Castle Market Cross

1. Barnard Castle Market Cross – Barnard Castle ruins loop from Cotherstone

2. Barnard Castle Market Cross – Barnard Castle ruins loop from Startforth

3. Barnard Castle Market Cross – Barnard Castle ruins loop from Barnard Castle

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