World heritage site, Durham, is located in the northeast side of England and a three-hour train ride away from London. The combination of breathtaking scenery and historical attractions have made this area a popular destination. Topping the list of the most popular tourist attraction are the Durham Castle, which was built in 1072, and Durham Cathedral, otherwise known as the Cathedral Church of Christ, Blessed Mary the Virgin, and St. Cuthbert of Durham. Both structures are UNESCO world heritage sites and are recognised as two of the most notable landmarks in England. Considered as architectural and historical marvels, these attractions continue to be used even today, although the castle has become the home of Durham University. Another historic attraction on site is the Durham Town Hall, a Grade II-listed Victorian Great Hall. While access here is limited, travellers may request for private tours if they wish to explore its interiors. If you’re a nature lover, you can also visit the Durham University Botanic Garden, which covers 25 acres (10.1 hectares). Meanwhile, Wharton Park features a variety of outdoor attractions, including but not limited to a putting green, an outdoor gym, and a miniature car track. These are only some of the sights that you can explore in the area. Stay at a castle hotel in Durham so you can truly imbibe the medieval feel of the region.
1. Best Western Walworth Castle Hotel (from USD 140)
Located west of Darlington, Best Western Walworth Castle Hotel dates back to 1189 and is surrounded by 18 acres (7.2 hectares) of lawn and woodlands. Unlike other castle hotels which feature stark interiors, this one has well-lit, modern rooms, each of which has free WiFi connection. If you want to feel like royalty, book a room equipped with a four-poster bed and a hot tub. Families will love the fact that there’s a playground for their children to have fun in. There are two dining options available in the hotel: the indoor restaurant, which offers a formal, elegant dining experience, and an outdoor one, which is more casual. Buffet and full English/Irish breakfast are offered to guests.
Best Western Walworth Castle Hotel
Address: Walworth
Accommodates: 2
Parking Restaurant Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-hour front desk Golf course (within 3 km) Garden
2. The Townhouse (from USD 110)
This hotel is a Georgian townhouse located in the Old Elvet area of Durham, making many of the city’s attractions accessible even on foot. Depending on your booking, you can get a room in the main house, the townhouse, or the garden. You may even get one that comes with a hot tub or overlooks the River Wear. The Townhouse features themed rooms, so it’s entirely possible that each visit in the hotel will give you a completely different experience. The hotel comes with its own restaurant so you don’t have to wander far to enjoy a meal. Guests have continental, full English/Irish, and vegetarian options to choose from for breakfast. Besides the restaurant, the hotel also has a cocktail bar where guests can kick back and enjoy a few drinks after a day of exploring the sights. Sports enthusiasts can catch a match at the Durham University Cricket Club, which is just 150 m (0.09 mi) away.
The Townhouse
Address: 34 Old Elvet
3. Swinton Park (from USD 266)
Located in Yorkshire, Swinton Park is a luxury hotel that once served as the ancestral home of the Cunliffe-Lister family. Booking here will not only mean getting accommodations, it also means having access to a Bird of Prey Centre and a spa and country club, which features an indoor pool, a hydrotherapy pool, steam rooms and a sauna and offers a variety of beauty and relaxation treatments. Guests who wish to have a memorable wedding can have the ceremony here, as the hotel holds a civil license for weddings. Staying here also puts you within close proximity to the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Continental breakfast is offered. There are two restaurants on-site: Samuel’s Restaurant serves breakfast and dinner, while the Terrace Restaurant has lunch and dinner menus.
Swinton Park
Address: Masham
Accommodates: 10
Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-hour front desk Sauna
4. Lumley Castle Hotel (from USD 119)
Lumley Castle Hotel is a favourite choice for destination weddings, and it’s easy to see why just by looking at its facade. With its majestic structure nestled in a beautiful parkland, guests will be forgiven if they half-expect knights on horseback to ride past, as this establishment can make them feel as though they travelled back in time. Parents who wish to enjoy quality time or explore the town can avail of the babysitting services offered by the hotel. The establishment has its own restaurant. However, because of its popularity, guests are advised to make reservations to ensure that they can dine there. Full English/Irish is offered as a breakfast option to guests. All rooms have WiFi access. The castle is within driving distance to Durham, Newcastle, and Sunderland. Golf enthusiasts will love the fact that there’s a golf course just a short distance away from the hotel.
Lumley Castle Hotel
Address: Chester-Le-Street
Accommodates: 2
Parking Restaurant Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-hour front desk Golf course (within 3 km) Garden
5. Moor End Guest House (from USD 104)
Moor End Guest House is located right along River Wear. While it styles itself as a bed and breakfast, its amenities and services are more in keeping with hotels. While it was built back in 1840, rooms have been equipped with modern furnishings for guests’ comfort and convenience. Besides coffee and tea making facilities, these also come with a flat-screen TV, a hairdryer, and WiFi. Moor End Guest House also features a free electric car charging point. Those who are driving to and from the city will be glad to know that free parking is available on this property. Those who will be taking public transportation, meanwhile, will also love the fact that buses regularly pass by the area to take passengers to attractions such a Durham Castle. Breakfast options include full English/Irish, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals.
Moor End House Bed & Breakfast
Address: 7-8 Moor End Terrace, Durham, England, GBR, DH1 1BJ
Accommodates: 2
Parking Golf course (within 3 km) Garden Non-smoking rooms Family rooms Free parking Internet services Heating
Durham: A city of history
Durham may not be the largest city, but it comes fully packed with attractions that are sure to attract any history lover. Certainly, there are a number of accommodations available in the area. If, however, you want to immerse yourself in an area as historic as Durham, stay at one of these castle hotels to better understand what life was like in the Medieval era.
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