PAMPERED pooches are being offered the chance to enjoy a luxury break with their owners.

Walworth Castle Hotel, near Darlington, is offering the canny canines the chance to relax in medieval style.

The castle dates from 1189, and the posh dogs will be able to sample what life was like for their ancestors.

The breaks have been inspired by the high status enjoyed by canines in the Middle Ages.

Delighted dogs can expect several treats as part of the offer.

These include unlimited kitchen scraps for the duration of the stay, a traditional gift of a collar with bells on arrival, a basket in their owner's room and a doggy birthday party in high medieval style, because there are seven doggy birthdays in each calendar year, so nobody has to miss out on their chance to party.

As well as all of this pampering, the dogs can expect walks in the hotel's 18 acres of grounds.

Owners can have the chance to read about some canine genealogy and discover their pet's ancestry and be given tips on training their pet in hunting, guarding and falconry.

A two-nights, half-board Castle Canines break costs from £125.

The castle has its own website where more details can be found at www.walworthcastle.co.uk