If you’re hoping for a getaway to remember this summer, you need look no further than the unique places that the North East has to offer.
While a sleek and modern hotel may be the choice for some, it’s hard to beat the charming appeal of staying somewhere with breathtaking period features - and knowing that you’re resting your head in a place with centuries of stories to tell. Whether it’s a 17th century hotel on the edge of Northumberland National Park, an 18th century luxury mansion, or an ancient bed-and-breakfast in a converted mill, there are places scattered across the North East that are steeped in history and now offer the chance for overnight stays.
Historic UK , the History and Heritage Accommodation Guide which is home to an extensive directory of historic places to stay, has a huge list of historical places in the North East where you can enjoy a getaway with a difference. Here are just seven hotels and B&Bs across the region that date back centuries.
Park Farm, Gateshead
This 18th century farmhouse has been managed by the Gray family for four generations and features eight ensuite bedrooms in a private courtyard, converted from the former barn and stables. With room prices starting from £69 per night for a two-person stay, the Gateshead farm is just a four-minute drive from the iconic Angel of the North.
Close House, Heddon-on-the-Wall
The Close House mansion was built back in 1779 and boasts its own scenic grounds set in the Northumberland countryside. The luxurious estate has 16 ensuite rooms in its courtyard, as well as more lavish options of a stay in the former gatehouse or pavilion cottage.
Located in the village of Heddon on Hadrian's Wall just 20 minutes’ drive from Newcastle city centre, this location is ideal for golfers too as the home of the only two 18-hole Lee Westwood golf courses in the world and host of the British Masters in 2017 and 2020. Prices for a one-night stay including a three-course dinner, breakfast and two rounds of golf start from £240 per person in the summer and £140 in winter.
Hedgefield House, Blaydon
Dating back to 1804 this mansion is a cool one for history buffs, with a claim to fame as the first private house to have a telephone installed. The Blaydon manor has four acres of award-winning gardens, and rooms are decorated in a Versailles style to complement their Georgian features.
Located less than 20 minutes’ drive from Newcastle city centre as well as being a stone’s throw from the town of Ryton and village of Throckley, the mansion sells itself as the perfect stay for those coming to see the Great North Run or wanting to explore the Northumbrian countryside. Midweek prices for a double ensuite room start from £72 per night, while weekend prices begin from £79 and luxurious four-poster suites are also available.
No 1 Hotel & Wine Lounge, Wooler
Dating all the way back to 1671, this hotel on the edge of the idyllic Northumberland National Park has seven quirky bedrooms complete with roll-top baths as well as a bar and restaurant. A one-night stay on the weekend this August at one of the oldest buildings in Wooler, a popular destination with walkers ideally located for a ramble in the Cheviot Hills, will set you back £100.
Le Petit Chateau & William De Percy, Otterburn
Originally a 17th-century coaching inn, this glamorous getaway in Otterburn is now a French-inspired gastropub, creperie and dog-friendly hotel that doubles up as a popular wedding venue. The most luxurious rooms at the Chateau boast the likes of four-poster beds, copper freestanding baths, crystal chandeliers and private roof terraces, with room prices in William De Percy starting from £170 per night.
Dilston Mill B&B, Corbridge
This charming bed and breakfast property can be found on the banks of Devil’s Water river in Northumberland a five-minute drive away from Hexham, and its rich history dates back to the Middle Ages. There’s a studio or a private suite with views of the river to choose from for your stay in the former water mill, with prices starting from £248 for a two-night stay on Booking.com.
The Bondgate Boutique, Alnwick
Alnwick boasts some of the biggest attractions in the region between Alnwick Castle and the Alnwick Garden, making it a popular holiday destination - and this Grade II listed building dating back to the early 1700s offers the chance to immerse yourself in the history of the market town. There are seven bedrooms in the Bondgate Boutique with prices starting at around £215 for a two-night stay in August, and the Plough Hotel is just next door for breakfast or dinner.
READ NEXT:
-
I visited the three Northumberland beaches among the best in the UK in one day - here's how to do it
-
Northumberland hotel named one of the best hillside hideaways in the UK
-
The tiny Northumberland village with a ruined castle and an 11th century church
-
Northumberland bus route named one of the country's most scenic
