Doe Park Mill

Crumbling stone walls emerge from the River Tees bank just outside Barnard Castle, marking what remains of this medieval corn mill. The archaeological site shows clear evidence of the mill race, wheel pit and substantial foundations where grain was ground for centuries until the operation finally ceased in the early 1900s.

History enthusiasts will find plenty to poke about among the ruins, though there's not much interpretation on site - you'll need to piece together the story yourself from the surviving stonework. The setting is lovely, tucked into a wooded bend of the Tees with decent footpaths leading down from the road.

Families staying at nearby Doe Park Caravan Park are practically on the doorstep, making this an easy leg-stretch that won't tax restless kids. The ruins aren't extensive enough to warrant a special trip, but they're well worth combining with a walk along the riverbank or a visit to Barnard Castle itself, just a couple of miles upstream.

Allow about 30 minutes unless you're particularly keen on industrial archaeology. The site appears to have free access year-round, though the approach can get muddy after rain. Those based at Teesdale Barnard Castle Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite or Mickleton Mill Caravan Park will find it a pleasant riverside diversion that adds a bit of historical context to the Teesdale experience.