Beadnell Towers - A Towering Success

Beadnell Towers is a stylish new boutique hotel on the Northumberland coast. The receptionist probably wished she hadn’t asked the couple in front of me if they had experienced a good day so far. The lady had her right arm in a sling. It turned out that she had torn a tendon in her arm that morning and had come straight from the hospital to the hotel. “They say it will be up to 10 weeks to heal and before I’m fully recovered” she offers.

Having broken my right arm myself after slipping on ice during the winter I feel duty bound to tell her that it will be more like 14 weeks before she has full use of her arm. She looks dismayed by my comment, but as I stressed she could be in a far worse place than Beadnell Towers.

Things it seems do not always go to plan for anyone; this was my third attempt at trying to stay at Hotel. The first time the hotel was put into an upper tier last November, then in January another lockdown was imposed, hence third time lucky now.

This Grade 11 listed hotel was built in 1723 and originally served as a granary. Set a few minutes away from the A1 Beadnell Towers is in the coastal village of Beadnell.

Each of the 18 rooms is individually styled with its own name which comes from Northumberland sayings. Out of the window from the Cooth room (Northumberland for comfortable) I stayed in, I could see the white horses in the distance on the North Sea, beyond that a sea fret threatens to invade the idyllic view, which was a delight to wake up to in the morning.

I’m not sure why boutique hotels have a thing about hanging a round mirror in the rooms - I had at least seven to look into of various sizes should I wish. Hanging above the old fireplace that has been kept in the room as a feature, the mirrors were in tandem with the exposed beams on the vaulted ceiling with a huge hanging glass chandelier above the Super King Bed. The dramatic exposed stone wall behind gave an idea of the building’s original structure.

The bathroom came with a drench shower along with a cast iron free standing Victorian bath, which I might add is not easy to get out of if you are recovering from a broken arm. Still I could always console myself with the view if I opened the window.

Hidden in the ample sized wardrobe were tea and coffee making facilities along with some very tasty shortbread biscuits. They had even found space inside the wardrobe for an iron and ironing board.

The free Wi-Fi was fast though you might find in these older properties it can be a problem in knowing where to situate the flat screen television - with all the wiring problems that it brings.

Rather than go for a high-fluting menu they have wisely kept to the basics - and all the better for it. Favourites such as Beer Battered Haddock, Northumbrian Fish Pie and homemade and stonebaked pizza, along with locally caught seafood vie for your attention.

The dog friendly restaurant is styled in trendy fisherman chic. A buzzing atmosphere prevailed as north eastern accents mingled in with those from further afield. Finding it hard to believe that you were in a north east coastal village the vibe seemed to be more like a busy city centre restaurant.

My 35 day aged 10oz Tweed Valley Ribeye steak was excellent, served with perfectly cooked chips. Cheese fans will be impressed with the Northumbrian Cheese Board that comes with a sharp Darling Blue, a ripe Smoked Cuddy’s Cave, Northumberland Nettle and a Charcoal underpinned with a nutty taste.

After all this indulgence a short walk across the fields to Beadnell Bay could be in order. The sands look as though they have been swept in from Cornwall. Apparently the current TV advert for a bank which features a black horse galloping across the sands, was filmed here.

As the sun twinkles on the North Sea and the fishing boats bob up and down in the harbour you could almost be on a Greek island, only the stiff breeze blowing in from the north sea let’s you know otherwise!

A hearty Northumberland cooked breakfast is served in the morning, which will set you up for the day ahead. A favourite is the Seahouses fresh local kippers.

As I was checking out another couple I met were handing in their keys “we will be back again in October” the lady offers. It might have been third time lucky for myself but I know I will be return back to this gem of a hotel.

http://www.beadnelltowers.co.uk/

Bamburgh Castle
When in the area it would be a missed opportunity not to visit Bamburgh Castle which is less than 10 minutes away from Beadnell Towers.

As you drive north from the hotel the imposing castle comes into view. Built 150 feet high on a volcanic rock the views from the castle battlements are superb. Included in the entry ticket are access to the Great Kitchen, The Kings Hall, Library along with The Keep, Armoury and Court Room.

The Armstrong family have lived in the castle for generations and continue to do so.

Daily admission numbers are limited so it is best to book a visit in advance. The castle is also a favourite location for film sets - the castle will be featured in the new Indiana Jones film. No doubt the producers were bowled over with Bamburgh - I am sure you will be too.

www.bamburghcastle.com