Lumley Castle

At the top of a slope above the River Wear, this 14th-century castle has a commanding position - and very handy, too, for international cricket at Durham County’s ground which lies just beneath. All towers, battlements and courtyards, inside it doesn’t disappoint; it is rich, warm and dark with flagged floors, lavish drapes, gilt-framed paintings, the odd spiral staircase and staff in medieval costume. Full of nooks and crannies and corridors that don’t lead where you expect, it’s very easy to get lost. Rooms are spread between the castle, courtyard stabling and mews cottages. Although the castle rooms have more original features - wood panelling, deep-set window seats - all bedrooms are large and handsomely tricked out in medieval style, with richly patterned wallpapers, deep colours and acres of fabric. Courtyard rooms, many with exposed rafters, have views of the castle; mews rooms are the quietest. The largest rooms have four-poster beds or baths theatrically set on a dais behind curtains. The top castle rooms are awash with swags and pelmets, some with bathrooms behind secret doors; huge fun. Food is traditional English with a twist; as well as 21-day dry-aged steaks, for example, you might find pan-fried turbot with shellfish or guinea fowl with smoked-garlic potato cake. It’s skilful cooking but not fussy. And the dining-room is all you’d want from a castle: stone pillars, vaulted ceiling and soft candles. Don’t miss the proper afternoon teas served in the library. And if your stay coincides with an Elizabethan banquet or murder mystery dinner, well, who knows what might happen...

Why do people love staying in your hotel?
Lumley Castle Hotel provides a no ordinary experience from arrival to departure. The beautiful grounds situated in the historical town of Durham oozes true British culture.

What is there to do in the area?
Lumley Castle is close to many local attractions such as the historical town of Durham and also Newcastle too. Beamish Museum and the Life Centre being popular for many guests. Being very close to the A1 ensures easy access.

What kind of breakfast do you offer?
Lumley Castle offers Full English or continental breakfasts.

Which are your most popular room types, and why?
Our most popular room types are Castle Feature Rooms. All rooms are individually designed and decorated so no two are the same.

What facilities do you have for children and can you fit extra beds in your rooms?
Yes, we can fit extra beds in some rooms and we welcome families.

What message would you like to give Hotel Guru readers?
Come along to Lumley Castle for a 'No Ordinary' experience!