Matfen Hall really does offer fun for all the family.
In addition to its deluxe accommodation, 27-hole golf course and spa, the hotel boasts a very fine Library restaurant. My daughter Holly visited recently for Afternoon Tea and was so impressed that she advised us to return to sample Sunday Lunch. Unluckily (for her), Holly now resides in Bordeaux as part of her university programme so my wife Lisa and I drafted in my son Jack as a worthy replacement.
From contemporary modern British cuisine to Sunday Roasts, Matfens adroit chefs create fine dining whatever the occasion. The Library restaurant boats two AA rosettes and serves highquality fare to a backdrop of magnificent, stately surroundings. This sounded so exciting I even managed to peel myself away from the sofa after watching all four quarter finals on a weekend in the grip of Rugby World Cup fever.
On arrival, we were warmly welcomed and invited to take a seat in the comfortable lounge area. This is a lovely, cosy space perfect for afternoon tea or for unwinding with a glass or two over the Sunday papers. We were also offered an extensive wine list which showcases the best from Europe and the Rest of the World, and chose a silky and seductive Bordeaux rouge in tribute to our new wine correspondent!
When we sat down, Sunday Lunch was very much in full swing. We were seated far from the madding crowd in a sumptuous corner table overlooking the hotels original 18th hole. Or in my case, the scene of many a wayward drive or misplaced chip! Far less erratic was Matfens Sunday Lunch menu, a lovely, succinct offering with two courses available for £17.95 and three for £24.95. Cracking value we all agreed given the opulence of the setting.
First up for me was a spin on the classic prawn cocktail with a spicier piquant sauce providing much interest. Lisa chose the plum tomato, olive and mozzarella bruschetta stylish presented with a light shower of balsamic glaze. Jack meanwhile opted for the deep and aromatic tomato velouté, enhanced further by a pool of basil oil and a sprinkle of garlic chips.
Jack followed up with the traditional roast beef cooked to the perfect pink with just-enough fat left round the edges to create that depth of taste. This was presented with roast potatoes, a grand Yorkshire pudding and a red wine jus.
Swayed somewhat by the accompanying sage & onion stuffing, Lisa and I both chose the roast chicken supreme also served with Yorkshire pudding and roast potatoes. Supplementing this, was a huge tureen of seasonal vegetables and some boiled potatoes perfectly-seasoned with a crackle of black pepper.
Never being ones to swerve three courses in favour of two, we rounded off with a selection of our favourite puds; Sticky Toffee pudding, dark chocolate and raspberry torte and the cheeseboard (guess who?). From this visit, it appears that the Library restaurant at Matfen Hall remains on fine form.
Whether staying as a resident or not, the hotel is easily accessible just 20 minutes from the centre of Newcastle and was a perfect spot for our end-ofweek debrief.
www.matfenhall.com