As many readers will attest, I am a fan of the pub. This may therefore be why I've followed the journey of the Inn Collection Group so closely.
The leisure company has rightfully earned its reputation as a North East success story, with multiple awards under its belt and a growing portfolio of venues stretching across the North East, North West, and into the Lake District.
With further expansion plans on the horizon, this group of ‘pubs-with-rooms’ continues to breath fresh life into previously overlooked locations and deliver outstanding experiences to its pint-loving clientele.
Having already enjoyed stays at the Tynemouth Castle Inn and the Ambleside Inn this year, my wife Lisa and I decided to complete our personal ICG “hat trick” with a visit to the charming Seaburn Inn along Sunderland’s seaside.
The hotel occupies an enviable location right on the seaside with sweeping views along the coastline. Guest rooms are havens of comfort and luxury with many offering sea views and balconies.
Arriving in good time, the fresh sea air was calling us, so we ditched the bags and set out on foot.
We took a bracing autumnal walk along the seafront, admiring the views of Roker Pier and the beach stretching out ahead. The area around Seaburn has long been a beloved spot for walkers, and we could see why.
The crisp breeze, combined with the gentle sound of the waves, made for a perfect coastal stroll. Along the way, we stopped at a couple of the adjacent hostelries to sample the local offerings.
The lively atmosphere of nearby pubs and cafés added to the charm of the afternoon, and we returned to the Seaburn Inn refreshed and ready for a leisurely late Sunday lunch.
The menu at The Seaburn Inn is extensive and brimming with hearty pub fayre that’s perfect for warming up after an autumn walk. In keeping with ICG’s reputation for serving up traditional favourites with many modern inflections – we were spoilt for choice.
I kicked off with prawn cocktail, a classic done to perfection, with plump prawns and a tangy sauce that struck just the right balance. Following up, chicken and chorizo skewers arrived tender, flavourful and singing with fresh chilli.
Inspired by our recent travels on the continent, Lisa’s meal took on an Italian flavour with the Tuscan-inspired bruschetta, which was fresh and vibrant, followed by a delicious, pan-fried chicken breast, cooked to juicy perfection.
As we tucked in, we couldn’t help but admire our tastefully-appointed surroundings. The Seaburn Inn, like its sister venues in the ICG collection, has been lovingly furnished with attention to detail in every corner.
From the elegant but comfortable furnishings to the artwork that celebrates the local area, the Inn offers a relaxed yet refined ambiance that invites guests to linger.
And, linger we did! Wrapped up in the Seaburn Inn’s cosy embrace, we decided to make the most of our stay by joining in on the weekly pub quiz. It was the perfect way to stave off the Sunday night blues, and we weren’t the only ones with the idea. The pub soon filled up with local boffins the atmosphere quickly became lively and engaging.
After recovering from a sluggish start to a respectable top-half finish, a stellar night’s sleep was always assured – with surrounding seaside (and super comfy mattress) making for an incredibly peaceful night.
The following morning, we breakfasted regally before taking the coastal route home. The Seaburn Inn is yet another winner from a company that continues to impress.
For more information, visit
www.inncollectiongroup.com/seaburn-inn