11 of the Best Small Luxury Hotels in Durham

The White House (Peterlee)

The White House (Peterlee) is a charming boutique hotel that opened its doors in November 2021. Situated in Peterlee, just 21 km from the Stadium of Light, this hotel offers guests a peaceful retreat with its garden, free private parking, shared lounge, and terrace. The property features convenient amenities such as room service and luggage storage, as well as free WiFi throughout. Guests can start their day with a delicious à la carte or Full English/Irish breakfast before exploring nearby attractions like the Beamish Museum (32 km) or Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art (34 km). The hotel also has a bar where guests can enjoy refreshing drinks. Each room at The White House is tastefully decorated and equipped with a desk, flat-screen TV, private bathroom, comfortable bed linen, and towels. Some rooms even offer stunning sea views. For those traveling by air, Teesside International Airport is the nearest airport located 44 km away.

– Boutique hotel offering a personalized experience
– Convenient location near popular attractions
– Beautiful garden for relaxation
– Free private parking for hassle-free stay
– Stylish rooms with sea views available

Blackwell Grange Hotel

The Blackwell Grange Hotel is a charming 17th-century mansion nestled in 15 acres of picturesque woodland, offering a serene retreat just a short stroll away from Darlington town centre. Boasting free Wi-Fi, this hotel features an impressive leisure centre equipped with an indoor swimming pool and gym facilities. Guests can indulge in delicious meals at the elegant Havelock Restaurant which offers a varied à la carte menu, or enjoy more relaxed dining at Captain Cook's Bar with its stunning views of the grounds and golf course. The modern leisure club also offers additional amenities such as a spa pool, solarium, and sauna for ultimate relaxation. Golf enthusiasts will be delighted to find that Blackwell Grange Hotel is conveniently located near both Blackwell Grange and Stressholme golf courses. A continental breakfast is also available for guests to start their day off right. Situated amidst the North Yorkshire Moors and within easy reach of Durham's historic city center, this hotel provides an ideal base for exploring these beautiful regions. Additionally, its proximity to the A1 motorway ensures convenient accessibility for travelers.

– Historic 17th-century mansion set in serene woodland
– Leisure centre with indoor swimming pool and gym facilities
– Elegant Havelock Restaurant serving exquisite à la carte cuisine
– Captain Cook's Bar offering breathtaking views of the grounds and golf course
– Convenient location near North Yorkshire Moors and Durham city center; easy access to A1 motorway

Hardwick Hall Hotel (Sedgefield)

Hardwick Hall Hotel is a luxurious retreat nestled amidst 120 acres of picturesque parkland in the enchanting countryside of County Durham. With its stunning views overlooking gardens and a serene lake, this hotel offers a tranquil escape for guests seeking relaxation and natural beauty. The hotel's impressive range of amenities includes free Wi-Fi throughout the property, ensuring that guests can stay connected while enjoying their peaceful surroundings. Each room at Hardwick Hall Hotel is tastefully decorated with antique furnishings, evoking a sense of timeless elegance. Some rooms even feature four-poster beds for an extra touch of luxury. Modern conveniences are also readily available, with contemporary facilities such as the latest digital TV systems and spacious walk-in showers or huge baths in select rooms. Additionally, 24-hour room service and internet access provide added convenience and comfort during your stay.
– Set within 120 acres of parkland
– Stunning views over gardens and lake
– Antique furnishings and four-poster beds in some rooms
– Contemporary facilities including digital TV systems
– Spacious walk-in showers and huge baths

Houndgate Townhouse (Darlington)

Located in central Darlington, Houndgate Townhouse is a boutique hotel believed to have origins dating back to the 1770s. This elegant property offers luxurious en suite accommodations with super king-size or four-poster beds and high-quality facilities. Guests can indulge in a wide-ranging menu of tempting dishes at the on-site restaurant, which also serves brunch and afternoon tea. The bar provides a selection of cocktails, wines, spirits, as well as tea, coffee, and cake throughout the day. With free Wi-Fi and room service available, Houndgate Townhouse ensures a comfortable stay for guests exploring the attractions of Darlington and its surrounding areas.
Pros:
– Elegant setting with luxurious accommodations
– Wide-ranging menu including brunch and afternoon tea
– Bar serving cocktails, wines, spirits, tea/coffee/cake
– Central location for exploring Darlington's attractions

Lumley Castle Hotel

Located within easy driving distance of Newcastle, Durham, and Sunderland, Lumley Castle Hotel is a magnificent spectacle that has dominated the County Durham landscape for over 630 years. This Grade I listed monument to chivalry and honor is surrounded by beautiful parklands overlooking the River Wear and Durham County Cricket Ground. One unique feature of Lumley Castle is its Escape Room experience called Lily of Lumley, adding an immersive and thrilling activity to your stay. With its ideal location, just 11 miles south of Newcastle, 8.1 miles north of Durham, and 12 miles west of Sunderland, the hotel serves as a perfect base for exploring the North East region. The hotel offers 73 luxurious bedrooms with elegant drapes, four poster beds, feature baths, stunning views, and complimentary Wi-Fi internet access. Guests can indulge in fine dining at the newly refurbished Knights Restaurant or enjoy a sumptuous afternoon tea in an exquisite setting. For those seeking a more intimate experience, there are options for private dining as well.

– Stunning castle with rich history
– Convenient location for exploring various cities in the North East
– Unique Escape Room experience on-site
– Luxurious and uniquely designed bedrooms
– Exquisite dining options

The Three Horseshoes Hotel

Situated in the heart of the charming market town of Barnard Castle, The Three Horseshoes Hotel is a beautifully restored 17th-century building with a rich history. Just a stone's throw away from the picturesque River Tees, this boutique luxury hotel offers guests an unforgettable experience. The rooms are elegantly designed and feature modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs with DVD players, and scenic views that will take your breath away. The on-site restaurant serves an extensive dinner menu that can cater to all dietary requirements, ensuring a delightful culinary experience for every guest. In the mornings, guests can indulge in a delicious buffet breakfast to start their day off right. For those looking to explore the area's natural beauty, High Force Waterfall – one of Britain's largest waterfalls – is just a short drive away. Additionally, cultural enthusiasts will appreciate the close proximity to attractions like Bowes Museum and Raby Castle – both offering fascinating insights into history and art within easy reach of the hotel.

– Prime location in historic market town
– Elegant rooms with modern amenities
– Fantastic dining options catering to all dietary needs
– Proximity to stunning natural landmarks
– Close access to cultural attractions

OYO The Townhouse

OYO The Townhouse is an exquisite Grade II-Listed Georgian town house located in the charming Old Elvet area of Durham. With its individually themed rooms, this hotel provides a unique and memorable stay for guests. The tastefully designed interiors can be found in the 18th-century town house, garden, or main house. Its convenient location allows guests to explore popular attractions such as Durham Cathedral and the 11th-century castle, both just a short walk away. Additionally, Durham Rail Station is less than a mile away and Newcastle city center is easily accessible by a quick 15-minute train journey. For those who enjoy outdoor activities or are affiliated with Durham University Cricket Club, the banks of the River Wear and the club are only 150 meters from the hotel.

Pros:
– Individually themed rooms offering a unique experience
– Located within walking distance of popular attractions
– Beautifully designed interiors with options in various parts of the property
– Convenient access to transportation hub allowing for easy exploration of nearby cities
– Close proximity to outdoor areas and recreational facilities like Durham University Cricket Club

Beamish Hall Country House Hotel

Located in 24 acres of parkland just 10 miles from Durham, the Beamish Hall Country House Hotel, BW Premier Collection is a beautifully restored 13th-century hall that now serves as an exclusive country house hotel. Situated next to the Beamish Open-Air Museum, this hotel offers a convenient location, with Durham just 12 miles away and Newcastle-upon-Tyne only 8 miles to the northeast. Additionally, guests can easily explore famous sites such as Hadrian's Wall, Lindisfarne Castle, Chester Roman Fort, and Hexham Abbey. For those seeking relaxation amidst nature's beauty, the hotel boasts extensive gardens perfect for leisurely strolls or guests can enjoy a game of golf at the scenic tree-lined parkland course at Beamish Park Golf Club. With stunning views of Durham's countryside, this course is renowned as one of the most picturesque in the region.

– Convenient location near Durham and Newcastle-upon-Tyne
– Close proximity to Beamish Open-Air Museum
– Easy access to popular historic sites
– Extensive gardens for peaceful walks
– Scenic golf course with breathtaking views

Radisson Blu Hotel (Durham)

The Radisson Blu Hotel in Durham is a stylish and modern luxury hotel situated just 1 mile from the city center and Durham Rail Station. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views of Durham Cathedral while staying in spacious rooms that feature all the necessary amenities such as a flat-screen satellite TV, laptop safe, and large work space. The hotel also offers free WiFi, a restaurant serving British cuisine with a twist, a bar for light meals and refreshments, and a modern health club called PACE which includes facilities like a spa bath, sauna, steam room, gym, indoor pool, and 5 Nu Spa treatment rooms. With its prime location on the banks of the River Wear and proximity to popular attractions like Durham Castle and the A1(M) motorway, this Radisson hotel is an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers.

Pros:
– Fantastic views of Durham Cathedral
– Stylish rooms with all necessary amenities
– Free WiFi throughout the property
– Modern health club with extensive facilities
– Convenient location near city center and major attractions

Crathorne Hall (Yarm)

Nestled amidst 15 acres of lush woodland with breathtaking views of the Leven valley and the Yorkshire Moors, Crathorne Hall in Yarm is a stunning Edwardian stately home that has earned its place among the top 200 hotels in the country. Immerse yourself in nature as you explore the walking trails or simply relax on the well-manicured lawns. Each room offers modern comforts including an LCD TV, complimentary internet access, and luxurious toiletries. This grand hotel holds a prestigious 4 red star rating for its exceptional quality and service. Conveniently located near Darlington, Middlesborough, Stockton-on-Tees, and just 8 miles from Teesside International Airport, Crathorne Hall is an ideal destination for both leisure and business travelers alike.

– Scenic location surrounded by beautiful views
– Luxurious amenities including LCD TV and free internet access
– Close proximity to major towns and transportation hubs
– Exquisite dining options available
– Some rooms feature balconies for added relaxation space

Rockliffe Hall Hotel Golf & Spa

Welcome to Rockliffe Hall Hotel Golf & Spa, a luxurious resort nestled within a stunning 365-acre estate on the border of County Durham and North Yorkshire. Immerse yourself in our world and live the Rockliffe life as you explore and enjoy all that North East England has to offer. With one of the largest spas in the country, an 18-hole championship golf course, and award-winning food at our flagship Orangery restaurant created by head chef Paul Nicholson, we offer an unforgettable experience. Whether you're seeking a romantic break, a venue for weddings or special occasions, or a place to conduct business, our world-class resort is perfect. Located in the peaceful village of Hurworth, with five-star leisure facilities at your fingertips, escape from the outside world and indulge in everything our country retreat has to offer. Relaxation or activity, celebration or focus on business – it's up to you. Discover the treasures of Durham, the beauty of North Yorkshire moors, and the dramatic coastline of North East England. We are more than just a pretty face; we are the iconic resort destination in the north of England.

– Luxurious accommodations set within a beautiful 365-acre estate
– One of the largest spas in the country for ultimate relaxation
– Championship golf course for golf enthusiasts
– Award-winning dining experience at The Orangery restaurant
– Convenient location near vibrant towns, picturesque villages, stunning coastline