Set in the heart of Alnwick and mere steps from the iconic Alnwick Castle-famed for its cinematic ties to Harry Potter- the newly opened Bailiffgate Hotel is already being mooted as one of Northumberland's most exciting launches in recent times.
Housed within the beautifully restored Duchess School, this luxury hotel is a real regal retreat, blending heritage charm with contemporary elegance.
For any fans of Northumberland (and let’s face it, who wouldn’t be?) it offers guests a luxurious base from which to explore all the region has to offer.
I was invited to experience the Bailiffgate by General Manager Bernard Bloodworth, a pillar of the North East hotel scene and fittingly, a former pupil of the very school which is now the Bailiffgate.
His warm welcome set the tone for a stay that was as memorable as it was indulgent.
Arriving on a late-Summer Sunday afternoon, my wife Lisa and I parked with ease in the spacious grounds and were soon struck by the grandeur of the building’s Georgian architecture.
Passing a lively courtyard filled with al fresco diners enjoying brunch and afternoon tea, we entered the reception area-a space at once both stately and inviting. The staff greeted us with genuine warmth, and we were swiftly shown to the super-deluxe, Hulne Park Suite.
The suite was a picture in understated luxury. Plush furnishings, a calming colour palette, and various mod cons created a haven of comfort and serenity.
With 48 individually styled rooms, the Bailiffgate has clearly invested in making each stay feel personal and indulgent. Views of the surrounding countryside added to the sense of escape, while the elegant bathroom offered our own, mini spa-like retreat after a day of exploring.
Alnwick’s town centre, with its cobbled streets and independent shops, is just a short stroll away, and after a gentle wander we returned to prepare for dinner.
A sharpener in the hotel’s ‘Commissioner’s Bar’ was the perfect way to ease into the evening. With its cosy fireplace and curated selection of wines, cocktails, and local spirits, the bar exudes a relaxed charm that invites good times and conversation.
Dinner was served in the Motte and Bailey restaurant, helmed by Executive Chef Paul Blakey. His menu is a celebration of Northumberland’s seasonal bounty, and each dish reflects a commitment to quality and creativity alike.
Lisa kicked off with a deep-fried spring onion and potato cake, paired with wild mushrooms and a Char Siu sauce-a neat fusion of textures and flavours, complemented by a crisp glass of Sicilian white wine.
I opted for the pickled mackerel, served with baby beets, fennel salad, and golden raisins. The dish was vibrant and wellbalanced, and paired nicely with the remainder of a robust gin and tonic from the bar!
For mains, the herb-buttered chicken breast with peppercorn sauce proved a comforting classic for Lisa, while my fillet steak from the grill section was cooked to perfection and accompanied by a velvety glass of Malbec.
Service throughout was attentive yet unobtrusive, and the restaurant buzzed with a palpable energy. The Bailiffgate is clearly making its mark with locals and visitors alike.
After a restful night’s sleep in our sumptuous suite, we enjoyed a hearty Northumbrian breakfast before reluctantly checking out.
The hotel’s breakfast offering is no afterthought: locally sourced ingredients and generous portions ensured we left wellfuelled for the week ahead.
The Bailiffgate Hotel is more than just a place to stay-but a destination venue in its own right. With its blend of history, comfort, and culinary excellence, it offers a compelling reason to return time and again.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a base for exploring Northumberland, or simply a taste of true five-star luxury, the Bailiffgate delivers on all fronts.
For more information, visit bailiffgatehotel.com