The Bailiffgate Hotel located next to Alnwick Castle is a new five star hotel and former Commissioner’s House built by the Duke of Northumberland. It later became the Duchess’s School and has now been transformed into the most beautiful hotel.
Getting There and Location
Located just a one minute walk from Alnwick Castle, Bailiffgate Hotel is in a prime position for exploring all that Alnwick has to offer. If you’re coming by train, Alnmouth railway station is nearest and is only about 10 minutes drive from the hotel. If you’re driving, there is a rear carpark with plenty of space. If you’re coming by car, the hotel is situated just a short drive from the A1 – take the B1340 exit.
Design and Interiors at Bailiffgate Hotel
This Georgian building has been preserved and restored but the luxury interiors by Room 33 are just so beautiful! Throughout the hotel the contemporary styling adds the WOW factor to every space, while complimenting and respecting the original architecture.
The exotic themed Garden Room with its oversized plants, rattan lighting and free standing lamps offer a tranquil haven in which to relax and read, enjoy some quiet time or just admire the castle views.
Rooms
There are 48 bedrooms at Bailiffgate Hotel ranging from Courtyard to Castle View, with Superior rooms, Suites and Balcony Terrace Suites available.
Our room in the main building above the entrance to Bailiffgate Hotel was very spacious, and like the rest of the hotel, designed with that perfect balance of modern and characterful. Boasting the original fireplace, sky high ceilings and a free standing tub as well as walk in rainfall shower and luxurious sofa, this felt like a truly relaxing space to unwind in and really kick back and enjoy. The ornate chandelier formed the centre piece of the room and really gave the room a sense of grandeur. Fluffy robes, slippers, bottled water, a coffee machine and the divine smelling Jo Malone bath products ensured every one of our five star needs was catered for.
Bar & Restaurant
We started with an a couple of Old Fashioneds in the stunning Commissioner’s Bar. The deep navy and rich emerald colour palate make this art-deco style bar an incredibly luxurious space while the light wood parquet flooring added warmth and balanced the darker tones.
We loved the glamorous statement bar area and high stools as well as casual seating and smaller tables, while the high ceilings and feature fireplace were constant reminders of a bygone era despite the modern styling.
Motte and Bailey meanwhile, has become an Alnwick destination restaurant in its own right. This beautiful dining room features metal chain drapery, soothing shades of green and stunning circular lighting. There’s also plenty of pretty plants and easy access to the al fresco Courtyard Garden – perfect for Afternoon Tea and long lazy lunches in the warmer months.
The menu is filled with locally sourced produce and all of the suppliers get a special mention such as L. Robson and Sons Kippers and Warren Butterworth’s Butchers.
The lobster benedict starter arrived on warm toasted brioche with a rich and creamy hollandaise sauce, crisp pancetta and a soft perfectly poached duck egg which oozed yolk when you cut into it.
Twice baked goats cheese soufflé with parmesan cheese and caramelised red onion chutney was incredibly light and fluffy and a good choice of starter if you’re having a big main course.
Roast loin of new season lamb was served two ways with minted lamb shoulder, spiced carrot puree and buttered broad beans, while Roscoff onion tart with slow cooked feather blade of beef was rich and satisfying, served with veal jus and oyster beignet. And the side of hash brown with slow cooked brisket and Monterey Jack cheese glaze was actually the surprise star at dinner – we’ll be back just for this!
Anything Else?
There are several dog friendly rooms at Bailiffgate Hotel which have direct access onto the courtyard, while tickets for Alnwick Castle can be purchased from reception. Mrs Bowmaker’s is a luxury dining room available for private dining.
Room at Bailifffgate Hotel start from £150 a night. Head to their website to book yours.