The Manor House Hotel

What are we about...

Nestled in the historic county of Durham, our hotel, once a hunting lodge for Henry VIII and home to the Eden family, offers guests a unique experience steeped in history. Upon arrival, you’ll be captivated by the original wooden beams, charming sloped roofs, and the delightful creaks of our floorboards. Explore the nooks and crannies that reflect the building’s rich heritage throughout the corridors and bedrooms.

At our hotel, we are committed to sustainability, focusing on reducing waste and energy consumption while collaborating with partners to address environmental concerns. SUSTAINABILITY POLICY

What we offer

32 well-appointed, comfortable bedrooms
A cozy lounge featuring an original beehive fireplace, exposed wooden beams, and complimentary Wi-Fi
A contemporary restaurant welcoming both residents and non-residents
A relaxing spa and health club
Comprehensive facilities for weddings, events, and conferences
A warm and friendly welcome for every guest

Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, our historic 12th-century hotel in the former mining village of West Auckland promises a relaxing and comfortable stay.

Manor House Hotel and Spa – Accessibility Guide

History

Dating back to the 15th Century

Formerly known as West Auckland Hall, and later a brewery, The Manor House Hotel is a Grade 1 listed building, built in the late 15th Century on foundations that date back to the early 14th Century. The building that stands here today was built using rubble with ashlar dressings and plinth, with a roof made of stone slates with stone chimneys.

Designed in a H-plan with the main square stair tower between the rear arms, the Manor House is a two-story building with a symmetrical front. The door at the very front of the building is circa 18th century, whilst many of the original window’s date back to the early 16th Century.

A Part of History

When you stay at The Manor House, it’s important to remember that the building is a part of history, and that by choosing to stay with us, you are only adding to the six centuries of history, stories, adventures and celebrations that have taken place here.

Beehive Bread Oven

In the lounge you will find a brick beehive bread oven on a high square plinth, and it is suggested that additions may have been made in the 16 th century to add external walls to the existing building, further increasing the building’s footprints.

Some of the rooms – especially those on the Ground Floor- have much panelling of early 18 th Century character, some of which is said to be in the Bowes Museum.

Reputed to have been King Henry VIII’s former hunting lodge, Coyners Surtees shows that the Manor House was the principle home of the Eden Family, from the 16 th Century, until they moved to Windlestone.

Things to do...

Auckland Project

We are delighted to partner the fabulous Auckland Project as and accommodation provider.

The Auckland project is a unique collection of heritage attractions, galleries, gardens and parkland in Bishop Auckland, County Durham.

Together our attractions tell the remarkable story of Bishop Auckland. The story is one of faith, art and power, from the Prince Bishops of Durham to Bishop Auckland’s surprising connection with the Golden Age of Spanish art. Please find opening times by following this link.

We are delighted to offer the following discounts due to our partnership with the Auckland Project when you book an overnight visit, speak to the team on booking:

The Way of Life

Northern Saints Trails

The Manor House Hotel is ideally located on The Way of Life Northern Saints Trail. Based on ancient pilgrim routes, the trails position the North East as the ‘Christian Crossroads of the British Isles’, and bring the fascinating stories of the region’s Saints to life.

The Way of Life is one wondrous route: healing waters, one of England ’s oldest churches and a palatial castle where Prince Bishops once resided, plus places where St Cuthbert made miracles occur.

Starting from historic Gainford, the trail runs all the way to Durham Cathedral and Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stopping off at unique destinations including Escomb Saxon Church and Auckland Castle.

To learn more about the Northern Saints Trails visit the website and download the Way of Life brochure, route description & The Weardale Campaign.

As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy/ies

Gallery

The Manor House Hotel