Member Article

A unique North East venue: Wendy Benson from Rockliffe Hall speaks to bdaily

Rockliffe Hall near Darlington is just approaching its 2nd birthday, but the luxury hotel, spa and golf resort has already begun to make a name for itself on a national and international stage.

“There is no other hotel quite like this in the North East,” explains Wendy Benson, marketing director at the hotel. “ We offer a high level of service, and in terms of the onsite facilities we compete on a national, rather than regional scale.”

As well as housing one of the largest spas in the region, the PGA accredited golf corse is a pull for many visitors to the resort.

“We are often compared with courses at Turnbury, St Andrews and The Grove, and we are certainly recognised as one of the top 20 courses in the country, which is great for the North East,” Wendy continues.

“Last year Premier League shareholders hosted their annual AGM here while there were a lot of grumbled about having to travel so far north, but on arrival they were bowled over by our facilities – so much so that they have decided to hold their conference here next year.”

The 3 restaurants at the hotel are also a major attraction. Head chef Kenny Atkinson, is the former holder of 2 Michelin stars, winner of the Great British Menu and regular contributor to Saturday Kitchen.

“From a PR perspective its great to have Kenny here,” says Wendy. “ Indeed he has brought in business from all over the world - one Australian couple on holiday in the UK came here specifically because they had seen him on Great British Menu.

“They could barely believe it when they bumped into him on the drive walking to work!”

While the hotel and its surroundings are certainly impressive, without the dedication of the staff, Wendy firmly believes it would not be what it is today.

“95% of our staff are local, and are truly proud to be part of something which has become such a big success story for the area.

“Alot of the feedback we get from visitors is that our staff are friendly but incredibly professional, which I believe is a key element of our success.”

Wendy is now keen to keep this positive momentum going at Rockliffe Hall. As well as preparing for further investment in the hotel, Wendy has also been asked to represent the region in the Netherlands by Visit Britain.

“It was an absolute honour for us to be asked, especially as Visit Britain felt we would enhance their offering over there.

“By casting our net further afield we hope to attract further business and continue our run of success.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .