“Occupying a beautifully restored Victorian building in the heart of Durham, Hotel Indigo celebrates the city's industrial and mining heritage through bespoke interior design. Every detail connects guests to Durham's character, from the Cathedral views to the curated local artwork.”

“A dog-friendly hotel with 12th-century roots, reputed to have been Henry VIII's hunting lodge. Dogs are warmly welcomed in the characterful courtyard rooms and are free to join their owners in the bar and brasserie - one of the most genuinely pet-welcoming hotels in County Durham.”

“A beautiful Grade II listed Georgian manor on the southern edge of Darlington, set in its own grounds with a history stretching back to the 17th century. Blackwell Grange offers classic country house atmosphere within easy reach of the town centre - one of the more quietly distinguished stays in the Darlington area.”

“A genuine 12th-century castle hotel near Darlington, set in parkland grounds with original battlements and towers still intact. Walworth offers that rare thing - a real castle stay without the artifice, where the history is in the walls rather than the decor. One of County Durham's most characterful properties and an easy addition to any heritage itinerary in the region.”

“A beautiful Georgian country house set within Hardwick Country Park near Sedgefield, surrounded by woodland and lakeside walks. The hall's historic origins as an 18th-century pleasure ground estate are reflected in its gracious architecture and peaceful parkland setting.”

“A 16th-century manor house set in open countryside just outside Darlington, with a golf course and leisure facilities in the grounds. Hall Garth has genuine historic bones and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it a solid choice for anyone wanting character and space without the formality of a larger country house hotel.”

“One of England's finest castle hotels, Lumley has stood since 1389. Baronial bedrooms, four-poster beds, a medieval banqueting hall, and ghostly legends combine to create a stay unlike any other - a UNESCO World Heritage county deserves its most spectacular hotel at its heart.”

“A Durham institution since the 19th century, the Royal County sits beside the River Wear in the shadow of the Cathedral. This elegant four-star hotel's storied history as Durham's premier address lends a genuine sense of occasion to every stay in the heart of this ancient city.”

“A handsome Victorian property in the heart of Darlington, the Bannatyne carries the character of the town's prosperous railway era in its architecture and public spaces. Well-placed for exploring both Darlington and the wider County Durham countryside, with the added benefit of Bannatyne's spa and leisure facilities on site.”