BUILDERS renovating a rural pub and hotel uncovered a forgotten piece of history.
The workmen were ripping out the plasterboard walls of the Red Well Inn, in Barnard Castle, when they were surprised to find the original stone walls hidden behind.
For centuries, the original stonework and panelling had been concealed behind more recent coverings as the pub and hotel was passed from owner to owner.
The building, which is believed to date from the 18th Century, was originally used as housing.
New owners, Kingslodge Leisure, plan to use the original brickwork as a feature of the hotel when it reopens later this year after a £250,000 renovation to create eight en-suite bedrooms.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article