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Gaze out of the windows and everything you see – with the exception of the church spire of neighbouring Matfen village – belongs to the hall. It doesn’t take much imagination to place yourself, momentarily at any rate, as the owner of the 19th-century Gothic mansion with its vast mullioned windows, 300 acres of parkland, formal Dutch garden, grand terrace and retinue of staff who always seem to pop up just when you need something.
Reception rooms have retained their original grandeur with plasterwork ceilings, vast fireplaces and huge shuttered windows but have been skilfully brought into the 21st century with bold colour schemes: rich gold, red and blue upholstery in the bar (carefully matched to the decorative ceiling), deep shades of green in the bookcase-lined Emerald restaurant (the former library) and the softest baby blues in the drawing room where afternoon tea is delicately served. And then there’s the double-height hall with oak panelling and staircase, starry ceiling and stained-glass window – and where guests are greeted with a rum punch.
Be as relaxed or as active as you like: golf, walks, Go Ape high-wire course or indulge in the spa with its range of Germaine de Capuccini treatments, whirlpool bath, sauna, steam room and pool.
Bedrooms in the original hall are massive, softly coloured and mix antiques with smart contemporary furnishings. But those in the newer wing are by no means shabby; sleek in shades of pale blue and soft grey with handsome headboards and bold abstract art. All rooms have Italian marble bathrooms, Penhaligon’s products and monogrammed towels and bedlinen.
Dining is a choice of tasting menu, more casual bistro-style or pub classics. Although the cooking is occasionally inconsistent, it’s beautifully served. Breakfast in the light-filled Cloisters is a wonderfully relaxed way to start the day.
Country Escape
Golf
Local markets
Great walks
Other Activities
Sights nearby
Cycling
Historic
Child friendly
Pet friendly
Traditional
Country House
Wedding license
Conference facilities
Secluded setting
Romantic
Four poster beds
Luxury
Wellbeing
Disabled access
Antiques
Gym
Restaurant
Spa
Rooms
63 rooms in this hotelChild friendly
Childrens books, DVDs, games and menu available.Pet friendly
Pets allowed on request, charges applyParking
Free parkingSwimming Pool
Indoor poolMassage
Meeting Room
Sauna/Steam
Fireplace
Wedding license
Bar
Conference facilities
Wifi
Four poster beds
Satellite / Cable TV
Concierge
Hot Tub
Suites
Disabled access
Room service
Sitting Room
Gym
Garden
Restaurant
Spa
Golf
Local markets
Great walks
Sights nearby
Other Activities
Cycling
"This is a stately pile of a hotel, close to Hadrian’s Wall, that has managed to add a spa, leisure centre and golf courses without losing its grandeur."
Originally published by The Telegraph
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