This 'tiny' County Durham village has a medieval secret

The village sits in a peaceful riverside location close to the town of Barnard Castle, with the River Tees forming a natural border in the area.

Historic Yorkshire roots

The village is located within the historic boundaries of the North Riding of Yorkshire, but along with the rest of the former Startforth Rural District it was transferred to County Durham for administrative and ceremonial purposes in 1974.

This administrative quirk gives Wycliffe a unique identity, straddling the border between two historic counties.

The closest villages of any size are Ovington downstream to the east, and Whorlton upstream on the Durham bank, which is also where the closest bridge is to be found.

Medieval church

One of the most important buildings in Wycliffe is St Mary's Church, also known as St Mary Whycliffe-with-Thorpe.

This church is very old, built during the medieval period, and is located right by the river on a low-lying piece of land.

The church sits on what was an ancient fording place, a shallow part of the River Tees where people and animals could walk across.

Best places to eat nearby

With Wycliffe's close proximity to Barnard Castle, visitors have access to excellent dining options in the historic market town.

The Three Horseshoes Hotel is a popular choice, with one reviewer praising: "All three of us opted for a Sunday roast. Good choice.

All the food was delicious. Roasted potatoes were perfect. Meat lovely and tasty".

Valentine's Restaurant consistently receives high praise, with diners noting: "Had the salmon fillet and the Brie and bacon burger - both were delicious".

For traditional pub dining, The Old Well Inn offers Thursday evening steak pie specials for £14.95, with one visitor describing it as "a wonderful experience".

The Golden Lion has been described as a "great all rounder" where "all meals were great" with "staff exceptionally friendly". The Crown at Mickleton, just outside Barnard Castle, is recommended for Sunday lunch in what reviewers call a "beautiful pub".

Visiting Wycliffe

Wycliffe can be accessed by entering the postcode DL12 9TS into a sat nav, though there is currently no access over Whorlton Bridge.

The surrounding area offers opportunities to explore the scenic Teesdale countryside and the nearby villages of Ovington and Whorlton.