Redworth Hall Hotel

Occupying a beautiful 17th-century Jacobean manor set on 26 acres of landscaped grounds, the upper-middle-range Redworth Hall Hotel impresses with its architecture and scenic wooded setting. The grand stone home is studded with lovely, large bay windows and charming details like towers and crenellated roofs. Polished, elegant interiors have a classic look that harks back to another era, full of atmospheric details like fireplaces, chandeliers, damask patterns, wooden wall paneling, and intricate decorative ceiling molding. Large bay windows with stained glass details are framed with heavy patterned curtains in the sitting room-like lobby and lounge, both of which have patterned sofas, art in gilded frames on the walls, and fireplaces. Antique furnishings include wooden pieces like writing desks and grandfather clocks. The hotel's restaurant and bar look a bit more average and can feel dated. The crimson-hued lounge bar, for example, pairs patterned carpeting with striped chairs and dark wood; some complain that it looks tired. 

The property attracts leisure travelers, both couples and families, looking for a countryside retreat. It's a popular venue for weddings and other events, so it hosts lots of groups as well, which can sometimes cause noise issues.

The hotel is located on 26 acres of wooded grounds and surrounded by countryside. It's about a 25-minute drive south of Durham and a half-hour west of Middlesbrough. The nearest bigger town is Darlington, about a 15-minute drive away. The nearest train station, Heighington, is a three-minute drive from the property. The village of Heighington has a handful of dining options. Nearby destinations include the Yorkshire Dales National Park (around a 40-minute drive) and North York Moors National Park (50-minute drive). York is an hour's drive away. Newcastle International Airport is a 45-minute drive from the hotel.

Rooms here, like the rest of the property, are tastefully decorated in an elegant way. They feature a more contemporary style than some of the hotel's public spaces, and come in a range of categories, including Standard Rooms, Deluxe Spa Rooms, Suites, Family Rooms, and Deluxe House Rooms. Decor differs, however, and some of the units can feel dated, while others have a fresher look. Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, telephones, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are fairly plain and some could use an update. They're equipped with shower/tub combos, plus they have magnifying mirrors and individual toiletries are provided. Deluxe Spa Room bathrooms are more modern, with multi-jet showers and separate jetted tubs, as well as upgraded toiletries. There are some Standard Rooms that add whirlpool tubs as well, and some of the Deluxe House Rooms also have spa or corner tubs too.

Some rooms are enhanced by atmospheric architectural details like large bay windows and fireplaces. Other rooms have sleek four-poster beds that add a stylish touch. Suites have separate living rooms with dining areas. All units have lovely window views over the hotel gardens or wooded grounds.

One of the hotel's main highlights is the Retreat at Redworth Hall Hotel, an expansive wellness center with a lovely indoor pool, fitness facilities, and a spa. The gym is well equipped with TechnoGym machines and has a fitness studio for classes. The spa has five treatment rooms (plus two couples' treatment rooms) as well as a steam room, sauna, whirlpool tub, and a relaxation room. There's also a hair and nail salon. Note that these facilities are open to non-hotel guests as well, so they can get crowded.

The 1744 Restaurant serves seasonal fare, with an emphasis on locally-sourced ingredients, and is open for dinner (multi-course dinner menus). Afternoon tea service is also available. Lunch is provided in the hotel's lounge bar, and includes light bites like sandwiches and salads as well as pizza, burgers, and other classic comfort foods. Breakfast is available for an additional fee.

The hotel is a popular venue for various events, including weddings, and has 12 function rooms from which to choose. Event such as weddings can be disruptive at times, however, and cause noise. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. There is free on-site parking.