A NUMBER of the region's leading tourist attractions are to stay open this week to give families a chance to blow away the cobwebs.

English Heritage has announced that four of its most popular properties will open their doors.

Barnard Castle, the 12th Century seat of the Balliol family, will be open to visitors today, Thursday and Friday. Admission is £3 for adults, £2.30 for concessions and £1.50 for children.

The 2nd Century Roman forts of Housesteads, Chest-ers and Corbridge will also open to Christmas visitors.

Corbridge Roman Fort and Museum stands on the site of the strategic crossing of the River Tyne, Chesters Fort is believed to be the best-preserved Roman cavalry fort in Britain, while the excavations at Housesteads, which was once home to 800 legionaries are the best-known Roman remains in the country.

All three are open until Friday, from 10am to 4pm each day. Admission is £3.50 for adults, £2.60 for concessions and £1.80 for children.

Published: 27/12/2004