Hotel Indigo Durham

The former Victorian County Council offices - a magnificent red-brick and stone building with copper dome, decorative columns and stained-glass windows - has been cleverly converted into a contemporary hotel that feels relaxed while still retaining the grandeur of the building and its historic surroundings. Original features of polished tilework, marble staircases and parquet flooring form the backdrop to Scandi-style furnishings, industrial lighting and framed architectural and engineering drawings. The circular oak-panelled Council chamber has been turned into the restaurant - a Marco Pierre White steakhouse. Be aware; this is fine if you like meat; fish-lovers and vegetarians are barely catered for. There’s also a laidback daytime café which is a popular locals’ haunt. Rooms are crisp and masculine with wood floors, oak furniture and smudgy colours and have a nice attention to detail to reflect the three decorative themes such as tie-striped rugs (Collegiate), tapestry cushions (Cathedral) and vintage microscopes (Science). Outside the touristy centre, yet only a 10-minute walk to the Cathedral and Castle, the hotel makes a nice retreat at the end of the day.