Perfect Places to While Away a Weekend This Winter
From boutique hotels with quirky interiors to cosy country inns and cottages by the coast
SWINTON BIVOUAC
Experience the great outdoors at Swinton Bivouac. Within 20,000 acres of the spectacular Swinton Estate in North Yorkshire, the Tree Lodges let you get up close with nature with their unparalleled views across the dale and rolling Yorkshire countryside. The secluded Tree Lodges are tucked away in woodland but only a five-minute walk from the Bivouac Café which serves delicious breakfasts, lunches and suppers, and the Meadow Yurts are complete with wood-fired, log burning stoves and outdoor seating. If you’re booking for a larger group, the Loft is a large airy room sleeping up to six – perfect for those looking to get amongst the great outdoors while still having life’s little luxuries at hand.
Our highlight: Just like us, Swinton Bivouac understand our four-legged friends are part of the family and allow dogs to stay in the Tree Lodges, the Meadow Yurts and the Loft.
Bivouac at Druid’s Temple, Masham, Ripon HG4 4JZ
01765 535020
swintonestate.com
CHARLTON HALL
Charlton Hall is a stately home that mixes tradition with modern eccentricity. Tucked away on an exclusive 150-acre estate in Northumberland, escape the norm and enjoy a stay in one of six distinctive bedroom suites, each individually designed. The guest rooms feature elegant roll-top baths, vast chandeliers and vibrant décor by leading names in interior design, and there is also a detached stable cottage adjacent to Charlton Hall which can be reserved to accommodate a further four overnight guests.
Our highlight: The eccentric interiors which feature bold statement wallpaper, velvet headboards and tasselled wall lights.
Chathill, Northumberland NE67 5DZ
01665 579173
charltonhall.co.uk
MATFEN HALL HOTEL, GOLF & SPA
Set in more than 300 acres of unique parkland in the heart of Northumberland, newly refurbished Matfen Hall is rich in heritage, atmosphere and space, making it the perfect location for the ultimate getaway. From intimate bedrooms that encapsulate a warm and wonderful home-from-home experience, to impressively-sized stately rooms that allow you to experience true luxury, there’s plenty of choice here. Dine in the Emerald fine-dining restaurant, relax in the Orangery overlooking the parkland golf course, explore the idyllic grounds or get into the swing of things at their golf resort and 27-hole champion golf course.
Our highlight: The Retreat – a sanctuary of tranquility which invites guests to have a dip in the pool, relax in the jacuzzi or experience a luxury beauty treatment.
Matfen, Northumberland NE20 0RH
01661 886500
matfenhall.com
RAITHWAITE SANDSEND
A unique coastal retreat, combining a contemporary hotel with stone cottages and a spa, is what you’ll find at Raithwaite Sandsend. On the coast, yet just a short distance from the North York Moors, the mixture of accommodation here means it’s the perfect place for everything from a romantic retreat to a large family celebration. Enjoy a luxurious treatment at the spa, head to the hotel’s bar and terrace for sweeping views over the expansive grounds, and enjoy a delicious meal in the cosy restaurant which showcases the best local produce.
Our highlight: The activities which can be organised for you – from SUP lessons, to yoga on the beach – and the many walks through the hotel’s wooded grounds.
Whitby, North Yorkshire YO21 3ST
01947 661661
raithwaitesandsend.co.uk
THE FAUCONBERG
This 17th century country inn is recognised as one of Yorkshire’s best traditional village inns, serving honest wholesome food, fine wines and real hand-pulled ales. The flagstone floors, wooden beams and cosy log fires make for the perfect, relaxed evening before winding down in one of the cosy bedrooms, each of which is decorated and designed with individual touches. The Fauconberg is also dog-friendly, just call ahead and let them know so they can have some doggy treats ready for your arrival.
Our highlight: After a great night’s sleep prepare yourself for the day ahead with a hearty Yorkshire breakfast – their full English is legendary.
Coxwold, North Yorkshire YO61 4AD
01347 868 214
fauconbergarms.com
RED LEA HOTEL
Close to the famous Esplanade and the picturesque South Cliff area of Scarborough, Red Lea Hotel has 66 ensuite rooms, as well as three, two-bedroomed, fully-refurbished and serviced apartments. Inside the elegant Victorian mid-terrace you’ll also find the hotel’s restaurant where the chefs use locally-sourced ingredients to prepare the tastiest home-cooked meals.
Our highlight: The fully-equipped gym and heated indoor swimming pool.
Prince of Wales Terrace, Scarborough YO11 2AJ
01723 362431
redleahotel.co.uk
WREA HEAD HOTEL
This independently owned, elegant country house hotel is set in acres of landscaped grounds on the edge of the North York Moors. Built in 1881, Wrea Head Hotel retains its gothic details but has been modernised to give an elegant yet historic county house feel. Each of the 24 rooms and suites have been individually decorated and when you can pull yourself away from your stunning suite or room, head to the restaurant to indulge in an exceptional dining experience. All dishes are prepared using locally-sourced ingredients and during the winter months, you’ll find duck, pheasant and venison from the surrounding estates on the menu.
Our highlight: For those who like it exceptionally quiet, we recommend The Tower Room.
Barmoor Lane, Scalby, Scarborough YO13 OPB
01723 371190
wreaheadhall.co.uk
HUNDITH HILL HOTEL
In the picturesque Lorton Valley, just one mile from the centre of Cockermouth and with spectacular fell views, this family-run country house hotel is the perfect location for a relaxing weekend away. After a day exploring the local area, head back to enjoy a freshly prepared three-course dinner in the hotel’s dining room, or take a seat in the modern bar lounge for lighter dishes, before heading to one of the 25 comfortable bedrooms including family rooms, fully accessible rooms and luxury rooms, all ensuite, and all with superb countryside views.
Our highlight: The five deluxe rooms with private balconies or patio areas which look out over the Lakeland fells.
Lorton Vale, Cockermouth, Cumbria CA13 9TH
01900 822092
hundith.com
NO.1 YORK
A charmer of a boutique hotel in the heart of York, the brand new No.1 York is just a 10-minute walk from the famous Minster. In the Grade-II listed Regency townhouse of stately proportions you’ll find 39 bedrooms with plenty of quirks, courtesy of the buildings heritage details and wonder-inspiring interiors. If you’re feeling peckish, the hotel’s chefs are on hand to craft up snacks, sharing platters and tasty dishes served from breakfast through to supper, and the busy bar has a range of drinks available all day for regulars and guests alike.
Our highlight: The spa, which sits in the arched cellar and includes five treatment rooms where guests can truly relax and unwind.
1 Clifton, York YO30 6AA
01904 644744
guesthousehotels.co.uk
GREENHEAD HOTEL AND HOSTEL
Nestled in the Northumbrian countryside, Greenhead Hotel and Hostel is a hidden gem offering seven newly refurbished, dog-friendly, ensuite guest rooms as well as a 45-bed hostel. Whether you’re travelling the Pennine Way, walking Hadrian’s Wall or visiting the beautiful Northumbrian countryside, this is the place to stop a while. All the hotel’s bedrooms are individually designed and ensuite bathrooms are stocked with little luxuries. After exploring the area, cosy up in the bar and snug area where you can enjoy a selection of local ales and a tempting bar menu, or visit the restaurant for classic homemade pub grub with a modern twist.
Our highlight: The hotel’s amazing location means Hadrian’s Wall is right on your doorstep.
Station Road, Greenhead, Brampton CA8 7HB
016977 47411
greenheadbrampton.co.uk
GRAND HOTEL
At the Grand Hotel there is a diverse selection of accommodation with 46 bedrooms, including sea view deluxe rooms and a maisonette. The Brasserie restaurant serves first class cuisine complemented by an elegant ambience, while the Drawing Room offers Victorian grandeur with fantastic coastal views and is the perfect place to relax with a coffee and a light bite. Copperfields is tucked away in the corner of the hotel and is a well-regarded real-ale pub serving food seven days a week.
Our highlight: The spectacular sea views.
Grand Parade, Tynemouth NE30 4ER
0191 293 6666
grandhoteltynemouth.co.uk
JUDGES COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL
Judges Country House Hotel is set in its own 22 acres of immaculate gardens and is the perfect location for a peaceful getaway. All 21 guest rooms have all been individually designed and furnished and have en-suite facilities. Wander the beautiful and tranquil gardens before settling down in the restaurant for a meal created by the team of chefs using fresh, fine and seasonal ingredients sourced from the surrounding area. Or, take a seat in the lounge for an elegant afternoon tea (both sweet and savoury are available) and upgrade with a glass of prosecco or champagne for an extra special treat.
Our highlight: The feature guest rooms which could include a four-poster bed and ensuite facilities with jacuzzi baths and bathroom TVs.
Kirklevington Hall, Kirklevington, Yarm , Yarm
TS15 9LW
01642 789000
judgeshotel.co.uk
HIGH FORCE HOTEL
This 18th century hotel adjacent to England’s largest and most powerful waterfall, High Force, is the perfect rural retreat. Each ensuite bedroom has been individually designed, combining country charm with fresh, modern facilities, and comes fully-equipped with luxury toiletries and doggie treats for any four-legged friends you bring along with you on your stay. The food at High Force Hotel is particularly special, with classic British dishes alongside some international favourites – and the Sunday lunches are a must! Start your day off right with a tasty, homemade breakfast before you head out to explore the area.
Our highlight: After a day of walking the many trails around Upper Teesdale, kick off your walking boots and warm up next to the log burning stove with a refreshing pint of local ale in hand.
Alston Road, Forest-in-Teesdale, County Durham DL12 0XH
01833 622336
raby.co.uk/high-force/hotel