Jesmond Dene House, one of the most upmarket hotels in Newcastle and the North East has been awarded one of the tourist industry’s most prestigious awards.
The hotel has been given a César award by the Good Hotel Guide 2012.
It is the most recent prize for the luxurious hotel which was opened in 2005 by Michelin Award-winning chef Terry Laybourne and developer Peter Candler. It is located next to one of Newcastle’s largest green spaces.
Joint editor of the Good Hotel Guide, Desmond Balmer said: “In well-maintained gardens in a wooded suburb of the city, Peter Candler has created an exceptional hotel with a country house feel.
“The Arts and Crafts mansion has been beautifully furnished with a contemporary touch yet in keeping with the period.
“The bedrooms are generously equipped and well serviced. In the restaurant, the superb meals are served at a fair price.
“The attentive service by a young staff is particularly praised by our readers.”
Originally designed by famed Tyneside architect John Dobson and built in 1822, the property was first a private residence and then went through many incarnations before it fell into disrepair.
Newcastle firm Rivergreen invested £7m into the Grade II listed building and it was reopened as a boutique hotel which has received recognition for its rooms and restaurant.
Newcastle-born Scott Davidson has recently been appointed as the general manager of the five-star hotel. He has also previously managed Wynyard Hall near Stockton and said: “Eric has done a great job. I’m definitely not changing anything; the quality is here already.
“I just want to lead the hotel forwards to do better.”