- Play Hard
- 22nd Aug 2025
- 0
- 0 minute
Matfen Hall is serving up Sunday lunch, scenic terrace views and a golfer’s paradise
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If you’re on the hunt for your next countryside escape, complete with delicious food, peaceful surroundings and a touch of luxury, look no further than The Keepers Restaurant & Bar at Matfen Hall.
This newly opened spot is already making a name for itself – and for good reason.
Matfen Hall has always had a grand country charm, but following a multi-million-pound refurbishment, it’s undergone a serious makeover.
Now one of the UK’s most elegant country house hotels, it’s even been named Best Countryside Hotel in the 2025 Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence.
Set in breathtaking parkland, the hotel is every bit the luxurious rural retreat – but since the opening of The Keepers last year, it’s now stealing the spotlight for foodies, golfers and visitors alike.
MODERN DINING IN A STUNNING SETTING
With its chic yet relaxed vibe, The Keepers is designed to celebrate everything we love about Northumberland: space, serenity and timeless style. Whether you’re arriving after a day of golf or just popping in for lunch with friends, you’ll find a light-filled, contemporary space that’s made for laid-back dining.
And it’s not just the interiors doing the talking. The mezzanine bar and outdoor terrace offer some of the best views on the estate, with a panoramic balcony that’s perfect for sipping a chilled glass of wine while soaking up the scenery.
SUNDAY LUNCH JUST GOT BETTER
Served between 12 and 3pm, the menu is everything you’d hope for. We’re talking perfectly roasted sirloin of beef, tender leg of lamb and golden roast chicken breast, all served with fluffy Yorkshire puddings, rich gravy, crispy roasties and cauliflower cheese.
Vegetarian? The roast veggie sausage doesn’t disappoint. And if you’re after something different, the catch of the day with herb risotto and pak choi adds a fresh twist to the classic Sunday menu. You can go for one, two or three courses, and little ones under three eat for free – making it a great option for family gatherings.
ALL-DAY DINING WITH A TWIST
Expect comforting classics with a tasty twist: beer-battered haddock with chips and mushy peas, juicy beef burgers, king prawn tagliatelle with saffron cream or a creamy cauliflower and truffle risotto topped with crispy cauliflower.
The stone-baked pizza menu hits the spot too, with options like BBQ chicken and bacon, pepperoni with jalapeños and a classic margherita. If you’re after something lighter, there’s a range of fresh salads and gourmet sandwiches, including hot roast rolls and wraps served with seasonal soups.
DESSERT WORTH SAVING SOME ROOM FOR
Whatever you do, don’t skip dessert. The sticky toffee pudding is warm, rich and perfectly paired with vanilla ice cream, while the chocolate brownie comes with gooey caramel ice cream that’s impossible to resist. If you’re in the mood for something a little lighter, the crème brûlée with shortbread is a crowd-pleaser or go all out with a trio of artisan cheeses served with fruit bread and chutney.
AN EXCLUSIVE OFFER: GOLF, SPA AND A LUXURY STAY
Of course, no visit to Matfen Hall would be complete without mentioning the golf. Their Golfer’s Getaway is the ultimate overnight escape package, including 36 holes on their championship course, an à la carte breakfast, buggy hire, golf simulator access and full use of The Retreat – the hotel’s state-of-the-art spa. Rooms are individually styled and the attention to detail throughout makes it feel like a true five-star experience.
Rachael Ellis
Head of Content
After gaining a first in her BA Media and Journalism degree at Northumbria University, Rachael worked at Newcastle’s leading regional newspaper with her stories being picked up in national and global newspapers. She spent two very successful years giving a voice to those communities across the North East who otherwise…
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