Radisson Blu Durham is entering an exciting new chapter as it completes the latest stage of its £5 million refurbishment and the results are already speaking for themselves.
Demand is growing across both leisure and business travel, alongside a sharp rise in meetings and events bookings, as the riverside hotel cements its reputation as one of the North East’s most desirable destinations.
Premium bedrooms driving demand
The latest phase focused on upgrading its bedrooms, starting with the fourthfloor Executive Collection, now featuring premium cosy beds, floor-to-ceiling mirrors, mini fridges, Chromecast TVs and high-spec bathrooms.
The second of the two floors completed so far followed with a full décor refresh with further work planned for the two remaining floors. The project has also seen the introduction of refillable water stations on each floor, supporting the hotel’s sustainability goals.
Uptake for the premium room upgrade has surged, with guests choosing these rooms for the enhanced comfort, style and thoughtful design.
“It’s about elevating the guest experience without losing our Durham soul,” says General Manager Stuart Lloyd. “The response to the new bedrooms, in particular the premium riverside rooms, has been fantastic. They’ve helped us attract more bookings and deliver even greater comfort.”
Jozef ‘s: A five star destination in its own right
Alongside the refurbished bedrooms, Jozef’s Bar and Restaurant, launched in the first phase of the investment, featuring outdoor space on the riverside and views towards the castle and Durham Cathedral,continues to impress.
Named after a lesser-known figure from Durham’s past, Jozef’s combines heritage with a contemporary twist, earning consistent five-star TripAdvisor reviews and a loyal following from hotel guests and local diners alike.
Offering panoramic views of the River Wear and Durham Cathedral, Jozef’s serves locally inspired dishes featuring Durham Gin, KAFFEEHAUS coffee and even a nod to the city’s mustard-making heritage.
Enhanced meeting, conference and event facilities
The hotel has also invested heavily in its main event space. The function suite has been transformed into a versatile setting, complete with a large private function bar, Tempus Hub, which can be hired for weddings, birthdays, christenings, anniversaries and corporate events.
An enhanced tech infrastructure including InstaShow wireless presentation tech means organisers and delegates no longer need to plug in laptops, streamlining setup and improving event flow.
Combined with capacity for up to 400, free on-site parking and breathtaking views of the River Wear and majestic cathedral this makes every event seamless, scenic and spectacular.
A vision for the future
The transformation is part of a long-term investment programme running into 2026, continuing investment in improved facilities including bedrooms.
“Our ambition is to offer a lifestyle-led experience that resonates with both regional guests and national conference delegates,” adds Lloyd.
“We’ve modernised our spaces, but the people and place that make Radisson Blu Durham special will never change.”
Book now:
radissonbludurham.com
0191 372 7200
info.durham@radissonblu.com