Putting Barnard Castle on the map

Shopkeepers in Barnard Castle have come together to produce a visitor map, highlighting the town’s wealth of attractions and independent traders.

Uniquely, the map, which folds down from an impressive A2 down to a handy pocket size, is linked by a QR Code to a new website containing a digital version of the town map with links to all of the businesses involved.

The map was created through the town’s new business group Barney High Street.

It came about when Ellen and Fiona Brookes, of Brookes Bespoke Tailors, visited every retail business in the town to encourage them to take part in Christmas late night shopping events and has evolved from there.

Clare Dixon of Clarendon’s said: “We had a meeting earlier this year and I put it to the Barney High Street group.

“Everybody thought it was a good idea. Many businesses down The Bank highlighted during the meeting that they lacked footfall, so we are hoping the map will increase the number of visitors to The Bank.

Following the meeting, Clare got in touch with graphic design and publishing consultant Tim Baitson who prepared the map and website.

She added that the map will be available in shops, caravan parks, holiday lets, BnBs, clubs, pubs, cafes, restaurants and attractions like The Bowes Museum, The Witham and potentially the ancient fortress from which the town got its name.

Clare said: “We are literally putting Barney on the map. It is a great platform to advertise local businesses and what Barney has to offer, and it will enhance the visitor experience.”

About 40 shops are now part of the Barney High Street Group.