England is probably one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe and it is hard not to see why. For those who are fans of the bright city lights, you could plan a trip to London and paint the town red with your closest friends. If you prefer the tranquil company of the countryside, an escape to the Lake District or the pretty villages in Essex is within reach. An often overlooked place is the riverside city of Durham in Northeast England. This unsung ‘English Eden’ is filled with historic castles and picturesque scenery. For those who are Harry Potter fans, the cloisters of the Norman Cathedral once doubled as the Hogwarts quadrangle in the films. If you are planning a trip here, take a look at our compiled list of themed hotels in Durham, England.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on October 31, 2024.
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1. The Townhouse Durham (from USD 223)
Delicious and value-for-money breakfast, with options like Eggs Benedict, and a variety of drinks available at reasonable prices.
Reasonable pricing for a boutique hotel in a central location with free street parking after a certain time.
Conveniently located within a 5-10 minute walk to Durham city center, away from noise, and close to attractions and amenities.
Unique and quirky decor, individualized themed rooms, hot tub, comfortable beds, and friendly, accommodating staff.
Looking for a Georgian-themed accommodation to stay in? Check out The Townhouse, which is a Grade-II listed townhouse that is located in the quaint Durham Old Elvet area. This gorgeous 18th-century hotel, which has views of the River Wear, has 11 individually themed bedrooms that each offers their own unique experience. A relaxing afternoon tea is available at the hotel’s on-site restaurant where you can delightfully indulge in sandwiches and pastries over a glass of exquisite Jacquart Brut Mosaique Champagne. If you are keen to do some sightseeing, you can take a 10 minutes stroll to the nearby Durham Cathedral or the 11th-century Durham Castle.
OYO The Townhouse
Address: 34 Old Elvet
21.66 km (13.5 mi) from Hamsterley Forest - Forestry England
2. The Durham Hotel (from USD 242)
Is a mid-century, modern, contemporary-themed hotel more of your style? Then the Durham Hotel is right up your alley. It is a convenient walk away from the Durham Convention Center and Durham Performing Arts Center if you would like to be near these locations. The rooms are clean, simple, and moderately spacious. There are special room packages available as well, so hopefully there is one that suits your needs. Daily continental breakfasts are freshly prepared at the on-site restaurant. For those who are bringing work, there is a business center available for your use, too.
The Durham Hotel
Address: 315 East Chapel Hill Street
6030.88 km (3747.5 mi) from Hamsterley Forest - Forestry England
3. The Morritt Hotel (from USD 106)
Delicious and plentiful breakfast, excellent dinner options, and friendly staff.
Reasonable pricing for comfortable rooms and excellent dining options.
Quiet and beautiful countryside setting, close to attractions and easy access to major roads.
Convenient location, lovely gardens, and dog-friendly facilities.
Located in the beautiful hamlet of Greta Bridge, the four-star Morritt Hotel is surrounded by picturesque Teesdale countryside and is only a five-minute drive away from the market town of Barnard Castle. This accommodation, which dates back to the 17th century, offers very comfortable and cosy rooms that come in different styles and furnishing. Two onsite restaurants, Gilroy’s Restaurant and the Dickens Bar & Bistro, are available for dining if you choose not to venture out to have a meal. You can also treat yourself to a relaxing massage at the motoring-themed and award-winning Garage Spa after a long day of activities.
The Morritt Hotel
Address: Greta Bridge
17.94 km (11.2 mi) from Hamsterley Forest - Forestry England
4. Ramside Hall Hotel & Golf Club (from USD 153)
Going on a golfing trip with your buddies? The Ramside Hall Hotel & Golf Club should be your definite pick! Offering the perfect blend of traditional features and modern luxury, this accommodation is set within a 350-acre (141.64-hectare) estate and boasts two championship golf courses. The bedrooms and suites are spacious and elegant and also offer stunning scenic views of the entire estate. For dining, you can take your pick from four restaurants which includes the award-winning Rib Room Steakhouse & Grill and Fusion at Ramside Hall, whih offers a pan-Asian menu. Guests can also enjoy complimentary access to the spa, which houses an indoor swimming pool, steam room, and sauna.
Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf & Spa
Address: Carrville
25.64 km (16.0 mi) from Hamsterley Forest - Forestry England
5. Hotel Indigo - Durham (from USD 174)
Located conveniently in the heart of Durham city, Hotel Indigo offers modern contemporary-designed rooms that are clean and spacious. Most rooms offer a fantastic view of Durham Cathedral, so be sure to snap some photos for your Instagram. Guests can also enjoy access to the fitness center that has the latest cardio and weightlifting equipment. Food aficionados will probably reserve a table at the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse & Bar restaurant and indulge in its signature steaks and a wide array of English and French classics.
Hotel Indigo - Durham, an IHG Hotel This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 9 Old Elvet
21.59 km (13.5 mi) from Hamsterley Forest - Forestry England
6. Lumley Castle Hotel (from USD 104)
Have you ever, in your wildest dreams, wished you could stay in a castle? Your dreams might come true when you stay at the historic Lumley Castle Hotel. Dating back to 1389, this magnificent monument takes you back in time to the middle ages and you might start think it to be true! The hotel features 73 unique and individually decorated bedrooms that have elegant drapes, poster beds, and views of the surrounding park lands. You can dine at the onsite ‘The Black Knight’ restaurant that offers varied cuisine and a three course menu. This accommodation is also within driving distance of Newcastle and Sunderland.
Lumley Castle Hotel
Address: Chester-Le-Street
27.77 km (17.3 mi) from Hamsterley Forest - Forestry England
7. Seaham Hall and Serenity Spa
If your budget is non-existent but you want to pamper yourself like a famous celebrity, then we highly recommend the Seaham Hall and Serenity Spa. Set atop a cliff that looks out on 37 acres (15 hectares) of rustic countryside and Durham’s heritage coastline, this luxurious accommodation could possibly redefine the meaning of ‘luxury’. You will be spoilt for choice from the wide range of lavish suites that come with either garden or sea views. Relax yourself at the award-winning spa that offers an indoor pool, a fitness center, sauna, and massage stations. Afterwards, you can dine at the chic Byrons Bar & Grill fine dining restaurant or at the informal brasserie-style restaurant called The Ozone. Should you want to visit the city of Durham, it is just a convenient 30-minute drive away from the property.
Seaham Hall and Serenity Spa
Address: Lord Byrons Walk
37.4 km (23.3 mi) from Hamsterley Forest - Forestry England
8. The Rose & Crown
This 18th-century coaching inn is situated in the scenic village of Romaldkirk near Barnard Castle and the magnificent Saxon church, surrounded by the stunning countryside of Teesdale. The rooms feature traditional and contemporary designs, are spacious, and are fitted with antique furnishings. All rooms are also equipped with private bathrooms and modern music systems. Treat yourself and your loved ones at the accommodation’s 2 AA Rosette award-winning restaurant that uses locally sourced ingredients.
The iconic Bowes Museum is a mere 10 minutes away from this accommodation.
The Rose & Crown
Address: Romaldkirk
13.34 km (8.3 mi) from Hamsterley Forest - Forestry England
9. Lord Crewe Arms Blanchland
This medieval-themed accommodation with touches of modern design should win the hearts of those who are fans of old century England. Nestled in the small village of Blanchland, Lord Crewe Arms boasts a range of rooms that would comfortably fit a couple or a large-sized family or group. Each of the rooms come with a private bathroom and extras such as bed linen and ironing facilities. There are also several dining options available on site. Look out for the stone spiral staircase to reach the ‘Bishops Dining Room’ to have a meal under tear drop windows. Or you and your mates can enjoy rounds of good ale at 'The Crypt’, which is the hotel’s medieval vaulted pub. For those who are looking to drive to Newcastle upon Tyne, you will be glad to know that it is about 45 minutes away from the accommodation.
Lord Crewe Arms Blanchland
Address: The Square, Blanchland
22.86 km (14.3 mi) from Hamsterley Forest - Forestry England
Historic and rustic Durham
Just three hours by train from London, Durham is simply an amazing county that you should visit if time permits. We promise that you would not regret taking the detour. Have fun planning with these best themed hotels in Durham, Enlgand.
History
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