Lumley Castle, Ropery Lane, Chester-le-Street, Durham, DH3 4NX
In a grand, 14th-century castle overlooking the River Wear and Durham County Cricket Ground, this posh boutique hotel is 12 miles from Durham Heritage Coast and Newcastle.
The plush rooms are uniquely decorated in period style and feature luxe fabrics, free Wi-Fi, and tea and coffeemaking facilities; many have 4-poster beds
There's an opulent restaurant and a vintage library bar, where afternoon tea is served. Event space is available, and regular Elizabethan banquets are organized.
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