Overlooking the wooded valley of Jesmond Dene, this beautiful hotel guarantees peace and escapism and a refreshing change. Fresh and light interiors, are set against the fine rich features of this historical house. Big beds, big bathrooms, space to work and space to relax. There are handsome rooms for meeting, dining and celebrating, from the wood panelled Great Hall to the light filled garden room. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly but with a passionate attention to detail. No gimmicks, no fuss, just a genuinely warm welcome and an invitation to indulge. The restaurant has two dining areas, the former music room with its delicate plasterwork and dramatic colours, and the oak floored light and leafy garden room. Polished oak floors, huge windows, lashings of space - the ground floor is a sweep of grand but comfortably modern rooms buzzing with gentle activity. Sip cocktails or coffees in the lounge, a bright, light room on the garden side, and once the Nobles' dining room. Plump sofas, Italian leather chairs, colourful fabrics and a granite topped bar create a handsome contrast with the oak panelling and Arts and Crafts tiled inglenook fireplace. Double doors lead into the restaurant. Alternatively, the Billiard Room has a carpeted, clubby atmosphere, newspapers and magazines, another grand fireplace and a fine, glazed roof (but, regrettably or thankfully, no billiards). A good place to curl up with a book, meet friends or laze over afternoon tea.