The Tempus takes national tourism crown

A Northumberland hospitality business has secured national recognition after being named England’s best small hotel, highlighting the region’s growing reputation as a leading visitor destination.

The Tempus, part of The Doxford Group, has won Gold in the Small Hotel of the Year category at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026.

The accolade follows its success at the Destination North East England Tourism Awards earlier this year, where it secured the regional title before progressing to the national finals.

Held annually to celebrate the best of English tourism, the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence, which this year were presented at a ceremony held at Aerospace Bristol, saw 369 eligible regional winners narrowed down to 53 finalists across 16 categories. 

The Tempus was one of three hotels shortlisted for the Small Hotel of the Year award.

Richard Shell, chief executive and owner of The Doxford Group, and wife Sophie collect the award

Located on The Doxford Group’s 550-acre Charlton Hall estate in Northumberland, the hotel has built its reputation on combining luxury accommodation with a strong sense of place.

Guests can choose from a range of stays including boutique bedrooms, converted farm steadings, lakeside cabins and yurts overlooking the estate’s lake.

The venue also places a strong emphasis on local food and drink, with menus showcasing seasonal Northumberland produce and ingredients sourced from across the region.

Alongside accommodation and dining, visitors can enjoy walking and cycling trails, outdoor events, stargazing opportunities and family-friendly attractions on the estate.

The award represents a significant achievement for both The Tempus and the wider Northumberland tourism sector, reinforcing the region’s appeal to visitors seeking high-quality hospitality experiences.

Richard Shell, chief executive and owner of The Doxford Group, said: “Our ethos, from inception, has been to create a stand-out destination that people naturally gravitate towards, whether for quality time-out together with a boutique feel, a meal or special celebration with family or friends, or as a compelling reason to visit the region.

“To be named Small Hotel of the Year on the national stage is a huge win on two levels.

“It’s a win for The Tempus and the team behind the warm welcome and memorable guest experiences. 

“And it’s a win for Northumberland, helping redefine perceptions and shine a light on just how forward-thinking and innovative the region’s hospitality scene really is.”

To find out more, and to book at The Tempus, click here.

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