Discover a New Chapter for Rockliffe Hall
This summer marks a defining chapter in the evolution of Rockliffe Hall
Long admired for its sense of scale, serenity and discreet luxury, Rockliffe Hall is now sharpening its vision. At its heart is a desire to create a world-class resort rooted deeply in the North East, while confidently looking outward. It’s shaped by craft, global inspiration and experiences that linger long after checkout.
Following the careful renovation of its Grade II-listed Old Hall and the introduction of an ambitious new culinary offering led by renowned chef James Close, Rockliffe Hall is setting a new benchmark for contemporary hospitality. This is not change for the sake of it; rather, it is an evolution designed to deepen the connection between place, people and palate.
A New Culinary Landmark
Central to Rockliffe Hall’s transformation is the arrival of ATLAS James and Maria Close, a newly built, 36-cover standalone restaurant that will anchor the resort as a destination for serious food lovers. Led by Culinary Director James Close, previously awarded two Michelin stars at The Raby Hunt, and shaped alongside his wife Maria, ATLAS draws on the couple’s extensive global travels, translating flavour memories, emotions and cultural traditions into a deeply personal dining experience.
Set within a striking 584-square-metre pavilion overlooking the estate, the restaurant pairs clean, contemporary architectural lines with expansive countryside views. The journey begins in a dedicated Champagne and aperitif lounge before guests are guided into a dining room arranged around three open kitchen islands, placing craft and creativity firmly centre stage.
Menus unfold in thoughtfully curated sequences. Early dishes offer small, expressive tastes inspired by places James and Maria have loved, before progressing into more refined compositions rooted in specific locations, an oyster recalling a visit to La Rochelle, for example, or spices that speak of distant markets and shared tables. Transparency is key: visible ageing fridges, a citrus fridge, a floor-to-ceiling spice wall and a six-seat chef’s table all reinforce the restaurant’s philosophy of openness, precision and storytelling.
Beyond ATLAS, Rockliffe Hall’s expanded collection of dining and bar spaces ensures that every moment of the day is considered. The former Orangery will reopen as a lively all-day restaurant inspired by Italian-American flavours, shifting effortlessly from relaxed daytime dining to a more polished evening atmosphere. A reimagined cocktail bar, centred around a new fireplace, offers both timeless classics and inventive signatures, while The Clubhouse continues to overlook the championship golf course as a relaxed hub for members and guests.
Afternoon Tea will be elevated in the beautifully restored Morning Room, pairing British classics with an extensive range of English sparkling wines and speciality teas, while Café TERRA continues to develop its reputation as a boutique café with exceptional bakery and nutrient-conscious dishes crafted with meticulous detail.
The Old Hall Reimagined
The thoughtful reimagining of Rockliffe Hall’s historic Old Hall brings renewed depth and character to the guest experience. Enhanced suites and redesigned communal spaces, including the cocktail bar, Morning Room and terrace, celebrate the building’s heritage while introducing a refined contemporary sensibility.
Interiors draw inspiration from the North East’s rich industrial legacy and the region’s global influence. Historic features are carefully preserved and subtly echoed through bespoke finishes to create a seamless dialogue between old and new. In the suites, textures reference the area’s history of wool and linen production, while bathrooms nod to the enduring solidity of sandstone architecture. Creamy neutral palettes are layered with warm tones and burnished brass, complemented by generous bathrooms, oversized showers and indulgent baths that invite guests to slow down and linger.
A Destination for Wellbeing and Outdoor Living
Alongside its culinary and design evolution, Rockliffe Hall continues to affirm its place as one of the UK’s leading destinations for wellbeing, sport and outdoor living. The award-winning 50,000-square-foot spa remains a sanctuary of holistic relaxation, blending hydrotherapy, thermal contrast therapy and expert-led treatments across 11 treatment rooms, indoor and outdoor pools, a comprehensive thermal suite and tranquil Spa Garden.
Guests also have access to a state-of-the-art gym equipped with the latest Technogym ranges, alongside studio classes, personal training, nutritional guidance and sports therapy. Outdoors, the championship 18-hole golf course sits alongside tennis and padel courts, bike hire, landscaped gardens and wildlife-rich nature trails.
During the transformative period Rockliffe Hall’s spa, Café TERRA, golf course, Clubhouse and selected rooms remain open.
The newly refurbished bedrooms are on sale from 1st September 2026 with prices starting from £550 per night and suites from £800 on a bed and breakfast basis.
