Rockliffe has reopened following a multimillion-pound transformation, unveiling a new era for the North East resort with a renewed focus on luxury, gastronomy and wellbeing.
Set within 375 acres of private grounds, the five-star resort has undergone a meticulous renovation of its Grade II listed estate, with carefully reimagined communal spaces and new suites in the East Wing bringing the total number of rooms and suites to 43.
At the heart of the resort’s new offering is its award-winning 50,000-square-foot spa, complemented by an 18-hole championship golf course, tennis and padel courts, and a state-of-the-art gym. The extensive leisure facilities form a key part of Rockliffe’s holistic resort experience, providing guests with space to relax, restore and stay active within the surrounding countryside.
The transformation also introduces a new gastronomy-led offering, headed by Culinary Director James Close, formerly chef-patron of the two-Michelin-starred Raby Hunt. His newly built 36-cover restaurant, ATLAS James & Maria Close, sits alongside five further dining and bar experiences: Rialto, an all-day Italian-American restaurant; Ro, an intimate cocktail bar with Japanese influence; The Morning Room, a refined setting for Afternoon Tea; Café TERRA, a boutique café; and The Clubhouse, a sports bar concept at the resort’s championship golf course.
Across the resort, a strong sense of place has been woven into the guest experience, from the warm, personality-filled service associated with the North East to interiors inspired by the region’s industrial heritage, considered craftsmanship and surrounding landscape.
“This reopening represents a defining moment for Rockliffe,” says Shauna Robb, Group Chief Operating Officer. “We have reimagined the resort to celebrate our regional heritage while introducing a new standard of English luxury - one defined by craftsmanship, genuine North East warmth and meaningful moments of discovery.”
The transformation has been delivered in collaboration with BSBA Architects, GT3 Architects & Interiors, Identity Consult, BRIMS Construction, Monarch Catering Equipment, DESCO Engineering and BGP Consulting. Identity Consult led the programme as Project Managers, with IC Planning as Planning Consultants, BSBA Architects as Lead Designer and GT3 managing the Interior Design development.
Rooms start from £550 per night, rising to £1,200 per night for suites, on a bed and breakfast basis.
