The Bondgate Boutique

Hotel review

In an enviable position on the main street through Alnwick, the small but perfectly proportioned Georgian townhouse sits in a handsome terrace of large stone buildings and is, in fact, the oldest house in the road. All symmetrical sash windows and honey-coloured stone, inside it’s been given a pared-down, urban feel with pale grey walls, milky coffee carpets and solid wood doors with little unnecessary decoration other than a huge, fun mirror on the stairs. The seven rooms are similarly sleek and minimalist in style with bold accent colours in the soft furnishings, crisp black furniture and shiny, modern bathrooms. Although most rooms are cosy in size, the design is thoughtful and makes the most of the space. One of the rear rooms has a private decking area while the larger, first-floor, front rooms have super-king-size beds. There’s a smart flagged terrace at the front with tables and chairs to watch the world go by as you drink a morning coffee or evening glass of wine. No breakfast is provided - although there’s fresh milk - but guests can pop to The Plough next door - a ‘boutique inn’ - for a very reasonably priced meal. Alnwick has plenty of eating choices, from pubs to Thai and Indian or, for something fun, The Treehouse restaurant at Alnwick Garden. All in all, a neat treat.

Helen Pickles