- Play Hard
- 27th Mar 2026
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A glimpse at Rockliffe Hall’s multi-million-pound transformation and new fine dining destination
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Rockliffe Hall Darlington, is entering a whole new era (and we’re so here for it)
It’s the scale of the transformation at Rockliffe Hall, Darlington, that really sets the tone. This is a full, multi-million-pound reimagining of one of the North East’s most iconic luxury hotels in County Durham, and we’ve been eagerly waiting to see a glimpse… until now.
Set within 375 acres in County Durham, the resort is being reshaped into a world-class, gastronomy-led destination, one that’s ‘set to rival some of the best fine dining experiences in the UK’, while still holding onto everything that makes it feel unmistakably Rockliffe.
And with its new restaurant offering, it’s firmly positioning itself among the best restaurants in County Durham.
BEHIND THE SCENES OF THE REFURBISHMENT
The Grade II-listed Old Hall is being carefully restored and reimagined, with interiors that blend heritage with a more contemporary, globally inspired feel.
What we love most is how rooted it all is in the North East. The design takes cues from the region’s industrial past. Think raw textures, reclaimed materials and a warm, earthy palette inspired by iron ore and local craftsmanship. It feels rich and luxurious but never overdone.
Inside, the Old Hall will introduce beautifully reworked suites and redesigned communal spaces, making it one of the most exciting luxury hotels in County Durham. Expect historic details paired with soft, layered interiors and thoughtful modern touches.
Across the wider resort, every space is being given its own identity, from a dramatic arrival experience to a statement cocktail bar and a light-filled Morning Room for afternoon tea.
And while the look and feel are evolving, everything Rockliffe Hall already does so well is still at its heart – the award-winning spa (one of the standout spa hotels in the North East) and championship golf course included. It’s a transformation that elevates rather than replaces, which makes it all the more exciting.
A NEW FINE DINING RESTAURANT IN COUNTY DURHAM
At the centre of it all (and the part we’re really excited about) is the arrival of ATLAS James & Maria Close, opening this summer.
This intimate 36-cover restaurant is set to become the heart of Rockliffe Hall’s new identity as a globally recognised food destination. And with James Close (of two Michelin-starred The Raby Hunt) at the helm, alongside Maria Close, expectations are naturally high.
But this isn’t about formality or fuss. It’s about experience, the kind that puts it firmly on the map for fine dining in the North East.
DINING, BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT
ATLAS has been designed as a fully immersive, chef-led journey. From the moment you arrive, you’ll begin in a Champagne and aperitif space before moving into the main restaurant, where the experience unfolds in carefully curated stages.
The first part takes you on a global tour – elegant, flavour-led bites inspired by travels across Asia, North and South America and beyond. Then, the menu deepens into more refined, expressive dishes rooted in specific places and memories.
It’s storytelling-led dining, the kind of tasting menu experience you’ll be talking about long after.
RIGHT AT THE CENTRE OF THE ACTION
One of the standout details? The layout.
The restaurant is built around three open kitchen islands, each dedicated to different parts of the menu, creating a real connection between chefs and diners. It’s immersive without being intimidating – you feel part of it, rather than just watching from afar.
There’s also a six-seat chef’s table for those who want an even closer view, alongside details like ageing fridges, a citrus fridge and a striking spice wall, all adding to that sense of craft and precision.
A TEAM THAT KNOWS EXACTLY WHAT THEY’RE DOING
Alongside James and Maria, a handpicked team of culinary and hospitality experts will bring ATLAS to life, including Adam Molloy, Shaun Hurrell, Jack Adams and Manuel Ghezzi (formerly of The Connaught).
It’s a team built on experience, creativity and a shared vision, exactly what you want from somewhere aiming to put the North East firmly on the global food map.
A WINE LIST TO MATCH THE JOURNEY
Wine is a huge part of the ATLAS experience, and it’s being given just as much attention as the food.
The list will reflect the restaurant’s global ethos, blending classic old-world wines with more contemporary, unexpected finds. Expect thoughtful pairings that elevate the full experience.
MORE REASONS TO STAY A LITTLE LONGER
While ATLAS might be the headline, it’s part of a much bigger evolution across the resort.
Rockliffe Hall will introduce a collection of dining and social spaces, from a lively Italian-American-inspired restaurant to a statement cocktail bar, a reimagined afternoon tea offering and Café TERRA continuing to deliver elevated brunch and bakery dishes.
It’s the kind of place where every part of your stay feels considered, perfect if you’re planning a luxury weekend break in County Durham.
THE KIND OF DESTINATION YOU PLAN A TRIP AROUND
When it all comes together in summer 2026, Rockliffe Hall won’t just be somewhere you go for a night away; it’ll be the kind of destination you build a whole trip around.
A place where design, food and setting all work in harmony. Where you can slow down, switch off, and discover something new, all while feeling completely looked after.
And honestly? We’re already counting down.
Follow ATLAS on Instagram to stay up to date with the latest updates.
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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