We have created a list with the best luxury hotels in Durham, UK. Hope you enjoy it. We think it might be the best of its kind around. Tip: Set your dates to see room prices!
A list by Sara Lind & Adam Larsen. Updated January 2024.
Delightful property. Highly elegant. Great views. Immerse yourself in our world. Live the Rockliffe life... Experience the north of England's most iconic resort destination. Set within a beautiful 365 acre estate on the County Durham and North Yorkshire border, Rockliffe Hall boasts one of the largest spas in the country, an 18 hole championship golf course and award-winning food. If you're looking for a romantic break, a stunning venue for weddings and special occasions, or an impressive place to do business, our world-class resort is the ideal destination. Set in the quiet village of Hurworth, with five-star leisure facilities at your fingertips, forget the outside world and enjoy everything our country retreat has to offer. Relax or be active, celebrate or focus on business, the choice is yours and the pleasure is all ours. Discover the treasures of Durham, the drama of the North East coastline, and the rugged beauty of the North Yorkshire moors. Home to vibrant towns, picturesque villages, gorgeous countryside and stunning coastline, we're more than just a pretty face. Get ready to explore and enjoy North East England, which is bursting with surprises! Rockliffe Hall offers the flagship Orangery restaurant with menus created by head chef Paul Nicholson.Show full description
Based on my research this is the most beautiful, elegant and relaxing luxury hotel in Durham. Soooo nice!
Very stylish. Trendy. Superb interior design. Centrally located in the historic city of Durham, Hotel Indigo Durham occupies Old Shire Hall, on Old Elvet, just 5 minutes from Durham Railway station and 400 metres from Durham Cathedral and Castle. The Hotel is close to many of the other attractions Durham city has to offer too, with the City’s popular shopping area only 5 minutes away on foot. Each bedroom is contemporary in design, taking inspiration from the Trinity - Durham Cathedral, Castle and University. You will find a mini fridge with complimentary water, large bed, rainfall shower and free toiletries. Other benefits also include a flat-screen TV and facilities for making tea and coffee. Some rooms offer a view of Durham Cathedral. Wi-Fi is free throughout the building. The onsite Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill serves signature steaks, English and French classics, while the Rotunda cocktail bar serves a selection of tasty cocktails. The daily breakfast offers à la carte and Full English options. Guests can make use of the state of the art fitness room with cardio and weight lifting equipment. The hotel also offers a meeting room, called The Council room, that can cater for private dinners, meetings and celebratory events. Durham University is only 1km from Hotel Indigo Durham. The nearest airports are Newcastle International Airport, 30km from the Hotel and Teeside International Airport, 33km from the Hotel. There is a small car park at the rear of the Hotel. There are 33 spaces. Residents are welcome to use the car park on a first come, first served basis. Spaces cannot be reserved. The car park is chargeable via the Front Desk at the Hotel.Show full description
This might be the most stylish luxury hotel in Durham. It also has a great location.
Stylish. Great views. Comfortable beds. Built in the style of a Manor House making it one of the most distinctive hotels in Northumberland. Overlooking the Derwent Valley, this beautiful hotel is located within easy reach of Newcastle and Durham. Derwent Manor is set in 20 acres of land and the interior is every bit as impressive as its exterior. Most of the spacious en-suite bedrooms have timber-beamed ceilings and all have one or two double beds. Prego Restaurant, with its huge open fire, serves a range of English and continental cuisine in stylish surroundings, while hearty bar meals can be enjoyed in our Antler Bar and Lounge. For the corporate requirements or for social occasions and weddings, the hotel boasts a range of Conference and Banqueting Suites seating up to 300 guests. Leisure Club with indoor pool, sauna, spa bath and fitness centre. For modern, professional and friendly service in a grand setting, any visit to Derwent Manor will be a memorable one.Show full description
Charming. Hip. Lovely interior design. Popular among couples. OYO The Townhouse is set in a Grade II-Listed Georgian town house, offering individually themed rooms in Durham’s charming Old Elvet area. Durham Cathedral and the 11th-century castle are within 10 minutes' walk. Tastefully designed interiors feature in all rooms, placed in either the 18th-century town house, garden or main house. The banks of the River Wear and Durham University Cricket Club are 150 metres away. Durham Rail Station is less than 1-mile from the property and Newcastle city centre can be reached after a 15-minute train journey.Show full description
One of the most CHARMING AND COOL boutique hotels in Durham. It is the most popular luxury hotel in Durham, among couples.
Romantic. Unique. Cosy rooms. Popular among couples. Boasting a garden and bar, Black Horse Beamish is set in Stanley, 1.8 km from Beamish Museum. Featuring a sun terrace, this property is located a near attractions such as Beamish Open Air Museum. Free WiFi is available throughout the property and Gibside is 5 km away. All guest rooms in the hotel are equipped with a flat-screen TV. All rooms have a private bathroom with a hairdryer, while certain rooms are fitted with a kitchen with a dishwasher. At Black Horse Beamish rooms come with a seating area. There is an in-house restaurant, which serves a variety of local dishes and also offers Vegetarian and Gluten-free options. The nearest airport is Newcastle International Airport, 16 km from the accommodation.Show full description
I would describe this as one of the most ROMANTIC boutique hotels in Durham. It also has very cosy rooms and outstanding views.
Relaxing atmosphere. Historic. Good breakfast. Set in 15 acres of woodland, surrounded by views of the Leven valley and the Yorkshire Moors, this magnificent Edwardian stately home has been recognised as one the top 200 hotels in the country. During your stay you can walk or jog along one of the walking trails, or simply wander through the well manicured lawns. An LCD TV, free internet access and luxury toiletries are included in each room. After, come back to the hall, park the wellies firmly by the front door and come in for a hot drink by the roaring fire in the drawing room, or a chilled glass of white wine under an umbrella on the terrace, depending on the season. Some rooms also have a balcony. One of Yorkshire's grandest hotels, awarded 4 red stars for exceptional quality and service, Crathorne Hall is ideally located close to Darlington, Middlesborough, Stockton on Tees and only 8 miles from Teesside International Airport.Show full description
Romantic. Charming. Popular among women. South Causey Inn is a family-owned hotel with a ‘country feel’ family pub, restaurant, and cocktail bar and is recognised for genuinely kind and generous service. The hotel has 60 unique bedrooms and suites, from cosy en suite rooms to themed suites with private parking, luxury hot tubs, plush interiors, waterfall showers, private gardens, copper baths, and more. The hotel is perfectly positioned to offer unique cultural experiences in an incomparable location between Durham and Newcastle Cities, whilst also embracing Northern history, with the world famous Beamish Museum, and Tanfield Railway just a stone's throw away. South Causey Inn can also provide you with a stunning country wedding, with four on-site wedding venues set in 100 acres of scenic countryside. Each venue has been individually designed with bespoke interiors, making them completely unique and stand-alone venues that can cater for ceremonies and events of all sizes.Show full description
Historic. Stylish. Great value. From the moment you catch a glimpse of the wonderful 1693 Georgian façade, you know you are somewhere special. The Blackwell Grange Hotel is a stunning 17th Century mansion, which enjoys an enviable setting in the beautiful County Durham countryside. Nestled in wooded parkland on the outskirts of Darlington and located between the North Yorkshire Moors and the Pennines, yet only forty-five minutes from the historic cities of York and Newcastle, Blackwell Grange provides a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. After a busy day exploring the North East, or a day of hectic meetings, relax in the leisure club situated on-site at Blackwell Grange. You can enjoy a dip in the heated swimming pool, jacuzzi, or a workout in the gym – or enjoy a pre-booked treatment in our beauty salon. In Havelock's Restaurant, our experienced team have developed menus using the best fresh produce to ensure that your dining experience is second to none. Taking time to discover new dishes, savour new flavours and taste exquisite wines from around the world is is all part of the Blackwell dining experience. Every one of our talented chefs is passionate about delivering delectable dishes, with outstanding service throughout.Show full description
Elegant. Superb breakfast. Great value. In the heart of the historic market town of Barnard Castle, The Three Horseshoes Hotel is a 17th century building less than a mile from the River Tees. Inside, there is free Wi-Fi access for all guests, a bar and a restaurant. High Force Waterfall, one of the largest in Britain, is a 26-minute drive away. The elegantly designed rooms at The Three Horseshoes each include an en suite bathroom with complimentary toiletries, a flat-screen TV with a DVD player, a hairdryer, a desk and a scenic view. In the mornings, guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast. The restaurant also serves an extensive dinner menu in the evenings that can cater for those with specific dietary requirements. From the hotel, Bowes Museum is a short 3-minute drive away. Raby Castle, a 14th century fortification surrounded by a 200 acre deer park, is also a 13-minute journey in the car.Show full description
Relaxing atmosphere. Comfortable beds. Cosy rooms. Set in 120 acres of parkland, Hardwick Hall Hotel lies in the heart of the beautiful County Durham countryside. Stunning views may be enjoyed across the gardens and lake. Free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout. The hotel is located just off the A1(M). Rooms are adorned with antique furnishings, including four-poster beds in some. Contemporary facilities benefit some of the rooms, including the latest digital TV systems in all. Guests will appreciate the spacious walk-in showers and huge baths. 24-hour room service and internet are available at Hardwick Hall Hotel.Show full description
Popular among women. Ramside Hall Hotel Golf & Spa is set within a 350-acre estate, featuring 2 Championship golf courses, with a combined 36 holes amidst mature woodlands and lakes. The spacious bedrooms, many with scenic views, feature elegant décor and modern bathrooms, work desks, satellite TVs with Sky and BT Sports and luxurious Elemis toiletries. There are many upgrades available, including use of a chauffeur-driven Bentley Mulsanne. The hotel boasts 4 restaurants including the award-winning Rib Room Steakhouse & Grill and Fusion with a pan-Asian menu. Pemberton’s Carvery offers traditional British cuisine throughout the day and informal dining is also available in the Clubhouse. Complimentary spa access includes access to the indoor 25-metre swimming pool, bubble pool, steam room and sauna. Access to the hydro-pool and outdoor pool is reserved for guests on spa packages and members. During busy times guests will be limited to a 1-hour time slot and guests may be allocated access on check-in. A tempting menu of Elemis treatments is available within the Spa, subject to availability. Booking is highly recommended to avoid disappointment. Just 450 yards from Junction 62 on the A1M, the hotel is just a 5-minute drive from the historic city of Durham and 25 minutes from Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Newcastle Airport is a 30-minute drive away.Show full description
Lovely property. Set in 24 acres of parkland just 10 miles away from the city of Durham, the Beamish Hall Country House Hotel, BW Premier Collection is a 13th-century hall that has been restored to its original splendour and is now an exclusive country house hotel. Next door to Beamish Open-Air Museum, the Beamish Hall Country House Hotel, BW Premier Collection is located 12 miles north-west of the historic city of Durham and 8 miles south-west of Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Furthermore, the famous sites of Hadrians Wall, Lindisfarne Castle, Chester Roman Fort and Hexham Abbey can also be found nearby. For a more relaxing stay you can enjoy a stroll round the extensive gardens or a round of golf on the tree-lined parkland course at Beamish Park golf club. One of the most picturesque courses in the region, it is set in a lovely verdant location with fabulous vistas across the splendid Durham countryside.Show full description
Historic property. Charming. Popular among couples. Within easy driving distance of Newcastle, Durham and Sunderland, the magnificent spectacle of Lumley Castle has dominated the County Durham landscape for over 630 years. Surrounded by beautiful parklands overlooking the River Wear and Durham County Cricket Ground, the castle is a Grade I listed monument to a bygone age of chivalry and honour. The hotel boasts 71 luxurious and uniquely designed bedrooms – elegant drapes, four poster beds, feature baths, rooms with stunning views and complimentary Wi-Fi internet. Dine in the splendor of the newly refurbished Knights Restaurant, offering seasonal Al a Carte Menu's and an extensive selection of fine wines to complement your meal (table reservations are essential). Indulge in a sumptuous afternoon tea, relax and unwind in the also, newly refurbished Library Bar, or choose an intimate private dining experience. Lumley Castle is also the first and only historic site in the UK to have its own Escape Room – Lily of Lumley – a truly immersive and thrilling Escape experience. The hotel is ideally located to explore the North East of England and more, being just 11 miles south of Newcastle, 8.1 miles north of Durham and 12 miles west of Sunderland.Show full description
Based on my research this is one of the most HISTORIC hotels in Durham.
Beautiful. Cosy rooms. Popular among couples. As the name suggests, OYO The Old Mill is a converted windmill circa 1750, which today offers a warm welcome and a relaxing stay. OYO The Old Mill was originally converted to a house in 1968, retaining many of its original features. A subsequent re-vamp was completed in September 2004, complementing the original architecture.Show full description
Great breakfast. Comfortable beds. This historical town house is less than a mile from Darlington town centre. It has free limited parking and free internet. The Bannatyne Hotel Darlington mixes original 19th-century character with modern comfort. The en-suite rooms have flat-screen TVs, work desks, free wired internet access and tea/coffee making facilities. The rooms have views of the town centre or the hotel's own gardens. Guests staying at Bannatyne Hotel Darlington can access the Bannatyne Health Club and Spa, a modern gym in a 5 minute drive or twenty min walk. a surcharge of £10.00 per person per day. This modern gym is a short walk from the hotel, and has a selection of exercise classes, swimming pools and spa facilities. The stylish and modern Maxine’s Restaurant and Bar offers fresh, seasonal British food, great wines and single malt whiskies.Show full description
This 4-star retreat is set just a 5-minute drive from the A1. It has a gym, swimming pool, spa treatments and original 17th-century features. Redworth Hall Hotel is a Jacobean manor house 8 miles from Darlington and 20 miles from Durham. The many original features including the magnificent Great Hall, an ornate staircase, lounges and attractive bedrooms. Restaurant 1744 offers a seasonal brasserie menu in a relaxed atmosphere. A full English breakfast is available in the morning.Show full description
Located in the picturesque hamlet of Greta Bridge, this traditional and peaceful 4-star AA hotel is in a beautiful location close to the Tees Valley and Yorkshire Dales. The Morritt Hotel is Teesdale’s hidden treasure, just off the A66, some 9 miles west of Scotch Corner. This 17th century former coaching inn offers a warm welcome to everyone, whether for business or pleasure. In the winter you will be greeted by our roaring log fire in the lounge, while in summer you can relax with a drink in our well-tended gardens. No 2 bedrooms are alike, all different in size, shape, style and furnishings. Each room is individually styled, many with original features of this Grade II listed building.Show full description
Great location. Just 1 mile from Durham Rail Station and city centre, the Radisson Blu Durham has fantastic views of Durham Cathedral. It offers stylish rooms, free WiFi, a restaurant, bar and modern health club. Each spacious room has a flat-screen satellite TV, laptop safe and large work space. All rooms also feature free tea and coffee and a private bathroom. The PACE Health Club has a spa bath, sauna, steam room, gym and indoor pool. Guests can also relax in one of the 5 Nu Spa treatment rooms. The Collage Restaurant offers British cuisine with a twist, and includes a range of signature dishes. The food is produced using fresh ingredients and a selection of wines are also available. The casual Lobby Bar has light meals, coffees and snacks. Located on the banks of the River Wear, this Radisson hotel is 1 mile from Durham Castle. The A1(M) motorway is 10 minutes’ drive and the Pennines are 30 minutes’ car journey.Show full description
Situated in Stanley, 3.1 km from Beamish Museum, Hotel 52 Stanley features accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a shared lounge and a restaurant. This 4-star hotel features free WiFi and a bar. The property is non-smoking and is located 13 km from MetroCentre. All rooms in the hotel are fitted with a TV. The rooms have a private bathroom with a shower, free toiletries and a hairdryer. At Hotel 52 Stanley the rooms are fitted with bed linen and towels. Utilita Arena is 14 km from the accommodation, while Sage Gateshead is 14 km from the property. The nearest airport is Newcastle International Airport, 24 km from Hotel 52 Stanley.Show full description
Situated in the historic market town of Darlington, the newly refurbished Mercure Darlington King's Hotel boasts 83 bedrooms, free Wi-Fi, and limited, secure, parking with additional charge. Each room at The Mercure Darlington has a modern look and features an en suite bathroom, tea/coffee making facilities, and a flat-screen TV. There are 2 restaurants and bars on site where guests can enjoy a varied cocktail menu, wine selection and specialities made of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Continental and full English breakfasts are served daily. With easy access to main roads and the A1 motorway, this hotel also is within easy reach of the North York Moors National Park, 40 miles away. Durham is 30 minutes' drive from the property, Stockton-on-Tees and Middlesbrough 25 minutes, and Newton Aycliffe 20 minutes' drive away.Show full description
We try to keep this list as up-to-date as possible. We last updated it in January 2024. Help us make this page better, for example by letting us know of a luxury hotel that should be on the list. Click here to get in touch. Thanks!
Check out these other cool hotel lists for Durham: