Walworth Castle Hotel

Walworth Castle is a Grade I listed building of 12th-century origins near Darlington in County Durham. The present house was completed around 1600, probably by Thomas Holt for Thomas Jenison, on the site of an earlier manor house or castle built by the Hansard family. It later served as a prisoner-of-war camp in the Second World War. Now it operates as a hotel and describes itself as Darlington’s only castle.

The rooms

The castle offers a range of rooms, with options both inside the castle and elsewhere on the grounds. The castle rooms have twin or double beds and are in the main building. The largest are the four-poster suites, which are extra large, and some of these are in the castle’s towers. The best-known is the King James Suite: King James VI of Scotland is recorded as having stayed in what is now the suite on 14 April 1603. A programme of bedroom renovation is under way, so some rooms have a fresh look while keeping their individual character.

Eating and drinking

The Castle Tavern and Beer Garden serves seasonal dishes, from hearty grills to lighter bites. Traditional afternoon tea is available, there is a garden terrace, and the castle rooms are also used for private dining and special occasions.

The grounds and the area

The castle is set within 18 acres of lawns and woodlands. It offers easy access to Darlington and the wider County Durham area, so it works as a base for visiting local landmarks as well as for a quiet stay.

If you want the history, ask for the King James Suite when you book.