Northumberland luxury hotel reopens following multi-million-pound refurbishment

The recent re-opening of luxury hotel and country estate, Matfen Hall, follows an extensive multi-million-pound refurbishment, after its takeover by Walwick Estate Group.

Matfen has had a “stunning” refresh, creating an easier to navigate experience across its sizable footprint with “quality oozing” from every part of the rural Grade II-listed building.

The works, which have seen the stately home’s historic Great Hall restored, were geared towards ‘improving the guest’s journey’. A new bar with mezzanine has been created as part of the extensive refurbishment, as well as a The Cloisters Restaurant and Bar and “state-of-the-art” kitchen.

Matfen Hall’s head of commercial development, James O’Donnell, said the significant refurbishment was about maximising what space already existed and adding and replicating the historic beauty to previously unused areas.

Walwick Estate Group, which also owns Walwick Hall near Hexham, as well as the Chesters Stables luxury suites, bought the property from the Blackett family several years ago and focused on a significant investment programme to ensure it provided the very best quality of experience for visitors.

The group has made “tasteful” changes across the hotel, leisure and golf facilities, which boasts a 27-hole Championship course, to create an exemplary experience for guests who travel from within the region, but also from the wider UK and overseas.

James O’Donnell commented: “It’s been no small undertaking. We are delighted to get back to looking after people, giving them a taste of real luxury.”

Extensive work has also led to additional refinements to the spa and wellness area. Key features of this place of “serenity and wellbeing” include Germaine de Capuccini and Natura Bissé rituals, in addition to five treatment rooms, an eight-bed relaxation room, an aromatherapy suite, sauna and a 15-metre pavilion pool.

This year, the hotel acquired new experienced leadership, appointing Nathan White as general manager. Nathan said: “I am thrilled to have joined Matfen Hall at such an exciting time in its history. Following this considerable financial investment in the property we are excited to be giving the North East a luxury resort that will also gain national attention.”

Matfen Hall reopened on Good Friday this year after what had been ongoing refurbishment, with work taking place across several lockdown periods. The facilities extend to dining options including the Emerald Restaurant, while the wine cellar located below the Great Hall offers a “memorable experience that the Head Sommelier can tailor to any specific taste”.


By Matthew Neville – Senior Correspondent, Bdaily

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →

Enjoy the read? Get Bdaily delivered.

Sign up to receive our popular North East morning email for free.

* Occasional offers & updates from selected Bdaily partners

Our Partners

Top Ten Most Read