Beamish Park Hotel

I couldn’t get through to reception because the phone line was dead, and my mobile had no signal from the time I arrived. I had no sleep at all, with the couple in the next room snorting, snoring and gasping all night through paper-thin walls. Their bed seemed to put their heads right next to mine through the wall. I’d spent two days off work, hoping for a break from a stressful, arduous job, and now feel ill and exhausted. Tomorrow’s special day out in Durham feels ruined. I’ll never stay here again and deeply regret coming. Avoid it if you can. I’d also brought a valuable heirloom I’d only received that morning. When I returned, I found the 70-year-old antique toy broken, though it had been in mint condition. It’ll have to be glued back together. Management denied responsibility and played down the loss, which upset me most. I’d thought this was accessible for Beamish, and it is, but there’s a long, narrow, fast country road outside with no footpath or proper lighting. It feels dangerous for children or women on their own at certain times.

The hotel’s a little tired, but for the price it’s good value, and the staff were all friendly and helpful. We came for the Whitney/Tina night, and the room looked beautiful. The food and service were outstanding. Thanks to everyone, I’d happily recommend it and stay again.

The rooms were warm and comfortable, with a really big bed. Staff were super helpful, and the restaurant menu had good options. We both liked what we ordered, and breakfast rounded things off nicely.

The staff were fab, from Julia at breakfast to Clare at dinner. Breakfast had a great choice, including full English and continental, and the poached eggs were great. Dinner was good too, though vegetarian choices were limited. Our executive room was clean and functional, and the large bed was comfortable. They cleaned it daily during our two-night stay. The hotel was friendly and pleasant, though a wedding was underway when we arrived and the music made it almost impossible to hear the receptionist. It didn’t affect the room, so don’t let that put you off. A few things in the room kept it from being five stars: there was no safe, the toilet seat hinge covers were missing, and the sink was cracked. We’d certainly return. Thanks for a fab stay.