Marriott Royal County Hotel
Durham
despite opening its doors in 1815, this centrally located hotel offers contemporary, well-equipped rooms and a grill restaurant and bar
Houndgate Townhouse
Darlington
find chic and luxurious bedrooms upstairs and a seafood restaurant and wine bar on the ground floor at this character, Georgian town house
The Croft Hotel
Croft-on-Tees
close to the River Tees, in a pretty village setting, a traditional hotel - dating from 1835 - combining period features with modern décor
The Lambton Arms
Chester-le-Street
in the heart of town, close to public transport links, spacious rooms above an updated, sociable bar that serves a menu of classic pub food
The Old Well Inn
Barnard Castle
dating from the 17th century, this charming inn offers cosy, traditionally furnished rooms, an informal restaurant, convivial bar and beer garden