Review: A luxury stay at Rockcliffe Hall
Rockliffe Hall is an AA-rated 5* Spa Hotel and much loved treasure of Darlington, County Durham. Set in 375 acres featuring a 50,000 sqft award winning spa and exclusive spa garden, an 18 hole golf course and incredible suites with stunning bedding and facilities.
But beyond the facilities, Rockliffe Hall is undergoing an exciting multi million pound project to elevate its reputation to a world-class gastronomy focused destination. Having appointed Culinary Director James Close, former chef-patron of the two-Michelin-starred Raby Hunt. James is already transforming every aspect of the dining experience at Rockliffe, taking teams of staff to Glencoe for training and preparing for the finalisation of his brand new custom built restaurant in early/mid 2026.
Until then guests can enjoy culinary adventures in the pop-up dining experience Terra, which is serving menus and tasting experiences that change every 6-7 weeks, currently El Camino James Cross' journey across Latin America. You can also feel the impact in the Clubhouse with exquisite dishes such as Lemon Sole brown butter, capers and lemon, combined with expert sommelier advice course to course from Alessio making it unforgettable.
It's the little touches that give this hotel it's status. The free bikes to cycle around the estate or pop into the walled kitchen garden, the turn down chocolates made with honey from their own bee hives and the patisserie selection created by Pastry Chef Maria - James Close's wife. Add on top of that brand new padel courts and a big screen on the lawn showing everything from ‘A night at the proms’ to golf highlights and classic movies - Rockliffe really are turning up the heat this summer.
We enjoyed the Tacos & Tranquilo package which was the perfect summer escape. Midweek bed and breakfast, extended spa access and tacos and margaritas in Terra. The watermelon and mint margarita was delicious after a lounge in the saunas and outdoor jacuzzi. Mint freshly picked from the walled garden and seriously delicious tacos including my favourite the red prawn, as well as a lamb belly barbacoa and tinga tostada.