Set in woodland, there's a remote feeling as no other buildings can be seen. A car is needed, unless you're happy to relax at the hotel. It's a 20-minute drive to Hexham, the nearest town, where you can visit the Abbey and independent shops. Head to the Roman fort, Vindolanda or visit Hadrian's Wall.
The hotel is on a narrow, twisty road that leads up into the North Pennines, a mile south of the A69 Newcastle-Carlisle road
By car: around 2 hours 45 minutes from Manchester and 5 hours 45 minutes from London. Free on-site parking available.
By train: London to Hexham takes around 4 hours; Manchester takes 3 hours 30 minutes - after which, it's a 15-minute drive to the hotel. Book trains to Hexham
There's a real sense of character and the décor is well-matched to the medieval bones of the building - think suits of armour, wrought-iron candelabras, tapestries and gilt-framed portraits. The rich colours (particularly the red velvet) and candles at night help set the tone.
Relax in the spacioius drawing room - although it doesn't have a bar, staff are happy to bring drinks over to you. On warmer days, enjoy drinks on the terrace. There are several short walks in the grounds, and be sure to join the castle tour for incredible views from the battlements.
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Garden
- Pet-friendly
- Free parking
- Free Wi-Fi
Rooms are generously-sized, with kingsize or super-kingsize beds. Castle Rooms are the star of the show with atmospheric thick-stone walls, heavy drapes and often a four poster bed. The more modern rooms in converted outbuildings have a country-house feel with floral and tartan décor - but are comfortable with cracking views.
Room types: Feature, Deluxe Castle, Castle View, Lodge
Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, tea and coffee-making facilities, TV, free Wi-Fi
Start with an aperitif in the drawing room, followed by a three-course dinner with amuse bouche. Classic dishes are given an inventive twist, such as roast duck with plum tart tatin or halibut with lobster thermidor tortellini. We wished we had room for the afternoon tea in the splendid drawing room.
Josephine and Pavilion Restaurants: 2 AA Rosettes, modern British cuisine, fine dining. Open daily for dinner.
The Drawing Room: coffees and snacks. Afternoon tea served daily, 12-4pm, from £14.50.
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