Having just finished my degree at Durham University, a night away celebrating with my partner Josh was just what I needed, and the Radisson Blu hotel in Durham provided the perfect place.
Occupying a scenic location along the River Wear, the Radisson boasts 207 bedrooms, 11 meeting rooms and caters for various business and leisure events. Having recently sampled the hotel’s luxury spa and leisure club facilities, we were delighted to return to the Radisson for dinner, bed & breakfast, following the further easing of lockdown restrictions.
After a warm and welcoming reception, we checked into our room. Being part of the renowned Radisson Blu label, I knew a comfortable stay was assured, which was immediately evident through our modern and contemporary room. With a large double bed, flatscreen TV and complimentary tea & coffee facilities, the room really promoted luxury and relaxation.
Ditching the bags, we decided to burn off some calories before our evening of indulgence with a visit to the venue’s health club. Named ‘Pace’, the hotel’s fitness & leisure suite offers fantastic gym facilities, a 15m pool, steam room, sauna and jacuzzi. After a stressful term at university, most of our time was admittedly spent relaxing in the jacuzzi, although customers can also delight in the gym’s range of cardio and weight-training equipment, as well as the array of luxurious spa treatments and packages available at the club’s adjacent Nuspa.
The afternoon’s relaxation had worked up an appetite, so we quickly got changed and headed to the hotel’s restaurant. ‘Collage’ – the venue’s in-house eatery – offers a plethora of choice, serving a fusion of classic British favourites with unique, innovative touches. The dinner menu is priced at only £20 for 2 courses and £25 for 3 courses, yet quality is always ensured through Collage’s commitment to offering only the freshest and finest local ingredients. The restaurant’s décor meanwhile offers a cosy and intimate ambience, with large windows which showcase the hotel’s idyllic riverside views.
Kicking off proceedings with a glass (or two) of vino, we were delighted by the arrival of our starters. Josh devoured the crispy chicken wings, served with a zingy BBQ glaze and sour cream dip, whilst I opted for something a little different with the toasted sourdough, a scrumptious dish accompanied by crushed peas, broad beans, feta & avocado oil. The starters proved both flavoursome and nutritious, and certainly awoke the palate in anticipation for our mains.
For mains, we were spoilt for choice with a selection of mouth-watering dishes on offer, including the beer-battered fish & chips, the delectable, sundriedtomato lamb rump, and a range of tasty burgers & fries. On this occasion, I enjoyed the pan roasted chicken breast served with sauté potatoes and buttery greens, whist Josh sampled the 10oz sirloin steak. Sourced from Black Angus Beef, the succulent steak was served with all the usual embellishments, including grilled tomato, mushroom, chips and, much to Josh’s delight, a rich and creamy peppercorn sauce.
Whilst I was staring defeat in the face, Josh was keen to try the restaurant’s dessert selection with the sugar-coated chocolate churros, slathered in a luscious chocolate cream dip. Now feeling satisfied and fit to burst, we enjoyed a further drink in the hotel’s adjacent bar, before returning to our room for a long and peaceful night’s sleep. The following morning, we returned to the hotel’s restaurant to enjoy our breakfast. Collage provides an abundance of choice from its breakfast buffet, including delicious cooked items, continental classics and exquisite pastries. Under the current restrictions, our breakfast was plated by members of staff, which demonstrated the impeccable service and attention to care provided at the Radisson.
After a thoroughly enjoyable stay, it is clear that the Radisson Blu is a multi-faceted hotel which has much to offer the region. Although situated within walking distance of Durham’s lively town centre and amenities, the venue manages to maintain a calm and tranquil feel, making it the ideal destination for a romantic getaway or post-lockdown treat. It’s safe to say we will be returning again soon.