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- 28th Nov 2025
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Spa breaks, unique stays and luxury halls – 8 cosy winter getaways in County Durham
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Whether you’re planning a girls’ getaway to a stylish hotel, a romantic spa escape at Rockliffe Hall or a solo countryside retreat complete with a hot tub ready to beat the Jan blues, Darlington has you covered.
From luxurious spa sanctuaries to charming boutique boltholes, these Darlington gems prove you don’t need to travel far to feel a world away.
So, pull on your cosiest jumper, pour a glass of mulled wine and start planning your perfect winter escape.
Rockliffe Hall
If you’re in the mood to completely switch off, Rockliffe Hall is the destination for indulgence. Think roaring fires, five-star service and one of the best spas in the country. Their thermal suite is a peaceful hideaway from the winter weather outside and take a dip in the outdoor hydrotherapy pool.
Pair it with dinner at TERRA – their fine dining restaurant which serves Mediterranean flavours from the Riviera – and you’ve got yourself a perfect winter weekend.
Houndgate Townhouse Darlington
Tucked right in the heart of Darlington, Houndgate Townhouse brings big city style to a small town setting. With just nine boutique bedrooms, it’s intimate, stylish and very Instagrammable.
Downstairs, the Saltfish, a beautifully refurbished seafood restaurant and wine bar, serves fresh seafood paired with organic and natural wines produced from artisan winemakers. If you’re after a chic city break without leaving the North East, this is your spot.
Redworth Hall Hotel
Grand, historic and surrounded by 26 acres of peaceful grounds, Redworth Hall feels like stepping into a period drama – but with a modern twist. The 17th-century Jacobean manor is full of character, from stone fireplaces to sweeping staircases, while the spa offers Elemis treatments and a heated pool to help you unwind.
1744 Restaurant serves seasonal, locally sourced ingredients with carefully crafted dishes, where you can treat yourself to an afternoon tea. Why not finish the day in the The Cocktail Bar & Lounge?
Kip and Nook
If you fancy a relaxing rural escape, Kip and Nook is the ultimate countryside retreat. Set on a working farm near Hurworth, this collection of converted barns and cabins offers luxury, laid-back living.
Expect outdoor hot tubs under twinkling fairy lights, wood burners and stunning Scandi interiors. It’s perfect for a romantic break, a group getaway or solo stays. Don’t miss The Nook Café for delicious coffee and homemade brunches that’ll warm you up.
Bannatyne Hotel Darlington
Sleek, elegant and set within a gorgeous Georgian townhouse, Bannatyne Hotel Darlington is all about modern comfort. The rooms are luxurious yet cosy, and the on-site spa and health club mean you can indulge without having to leave.
Their restaurant, Maxine’s, is perfect for romantic dinners – think candlelight, fine wines and locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re popping in for an overnight escape or a weekend of self-care, Bannatyne Hotel serves style.
The Croft Hotel
Overlooking the River Tees, The Croft Hotel, North Yorkshire’s newest hotel, offers the kind of old-world romance that makes winter feel special. The interiors blend historic character with contemporary flair and the restaurant serves hearty, locally inspired dishes that are perfect for cold-weather dining.
Plus, it’s dog-friendly, so your four-legged friend can join the adventure. If you’re after somewhere cosy, characterful and relaxed, The Croft Hotel ticks every box.
Blackwell Grange Hotel
A local favourite, Blackwell Grange has just opened a brand-new spa that’s worth the hype. With sweeping lawns and grand interiors, the hotel is full of classic romance, making it perfect for a seasonal getaway.
The Havelocks offers a warm, inviting dining experience, blending modern innovation with timeless classics. Using the freshest locally sourced ingredients, each dish is made to satisfy your senses, creating the perfect setting for intimate dinners or celebratory gatherings alike.
Hall Garth Hotel
If countryside escape is your thing, Hall Garth Hotel is the one. Set in 70 acres of beautiful parkland, a gorgeous countryside getaway perfect for resting and recharging
The spa and golf course mean there’s something for everyone, and the hotel’s restaurant, Oswald’s, serves up hearty seasonal dishes that’ll make you want to linger a little longer. Add twinkling Christmas lights and frosty morning walks, and you’ve got the perfect winter break.
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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