A magical regal staycation in Durham: our stay at Lumley Castle Hotel

By Ania Askwith

• Instagram

---

Your friends might love this too – share it!

• Facebook
• X
• Threads

Ropery Lane, Chester-le-Street, County Durham, DH3 4NX, UK

---

Best for: couples retreats, relaxing getaway, UK staycations, Durham staycation, North East staycation, North East castle, special staycation

Our staycation at a 600 year old castle hotel

What a magical staycation at a stunning 600 year old castle hotel!

We stayed in the Earl of Somerset Room — one of the most beautiful rooms you can imagine, with a four poster bed, period features (the huge windows and the door to the bathroom were my favourite spots!) and views over the castle grounds.

Inside the Earl of Somerset Room

The room itself was gorgeous — full of character but also really cosy. I loved the mix of grand period features with little modern touches that made it feel welcoming. There was loads of light coming through the huge windows, gorgeous soft furnishings, and cosy corners where you could sit with a book or a coffee. It really felt like a treat to stay here.

Exploring the castle

The whole place is full of character which makes it feel grand, but also cosy at the same time. We wandered around for ages just exploring all the different rooms and admiring all the beautiful features of the castle – inside and out. The castle really has a magical vibe; the grand hallways and staircase were the key focal points, but I loved exploring the hidden corners and cosy nooks. There is so much interesting art around the hotel.

The castle grounds

The parkland around the castle is perfect for a leisurely stroll. The castle also has beautiful courtyards. It is so fun walking around and spotting some of the castle’s medieval features and hidden details!

Dining at Knights Restaurant

If you’re a foodie – the Knights restaurant within the castle is a must try. We enjoyed a 3 course meal in the evening; all options were super flavoursome and fresh, you can tell they only use quality ingredients here. And the service was fantastic.

Our dinner menu

French onion soup

The soup came with a bread dome on top that you had to break into to get to the soup underneath – such a fun bit of theatre. And it was delicious!

Black truffle ravioli

The ravioli was silky and delicate, stuffed with earthy mushrooms and spinach. It felt fancy but not OTT, and super umami which I love.

12 hour slow cooked braised feather blade beef

The beef literally fell apart it was so tender, and full of flavour from the slow cooking. A really indulgent choice – real comfort food, but done in the most elegant way.

Chocolate mousse

The mousse was light, creamy, and delicious, but for me it was the blood orange sorbet that stole the show. Incredible flavour.  

Iced banana parfait

The banana parfait was smooth and creamy with a warm hit of rum and sweet raisins.

Breakfast at Lumley Castle

Breakfast in the morning was also lovely, with continental options and an a la carte menu. The food really was the cherry on top of such a gorgeous stay.

A real life fairytale escape in Durham

If you’re looking for a very special staycation, a present for someone (especially those hard to buy for people who have everything) or just want to do something to make memories with your partner, family or friends – a stay at Lumley Castle should be on your list!

Why we enjoyed our visit

• We loved the mix of grand history and cosy touches throughout the castle.

• It felt super special but still really welcoming.

• The staff were friendly and attentive, and we even pumped into the resident cat, Lady Poppet, who is absolutely adorable!

• The food was gorgeous.

Location

Lumley Castle Hotel is located at Ropery Lane, Chester-le-Street, County Durham, DH3 4NX, UK.

Tips for visiting Lumley Castle Hotel

• Gift vouchers are perfect for presents – for overnight stays, afternoon tea, or dining experiences.

• Explore the grounds – this place is perfect for a slow wander.

• Check out the events calendar, there’s often something happening, including seasonal celebrations. They also host themed nights like Medieval Banquets and Murder Mystery dinners.

• Afternoon tea is also on offer – the castle is open to visitors so you don’t have to stay here to enjoy its dining options.

• Free parking available

• Pets: service animals are welcome, and some dog friendly rooms are available, so check with the hotel directly.

---

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ania | NEWCASTLE blogger and content creator (@ania.askwith)

Enjoyed this post? Follow my Newcastle blog!

If you love discovering the best places to eat and drink, things to do, wellness experiences, places to go, hotels and staycation spots in Newcastle, the North East, and beyond, be sure to follow my Newcastle blog for more reviews and recommendations. As a Newcastle blogger, I share everything from foodie finds, self care experiences, to weekend escapes.

For behind the scenes content and a closer look at my day to day experiences, follow me on Instagram @ania.askwith

---