Rockliffe Hall has broken ground on the resort hotel’s significant renovation as it aims to become a world-class, gastronomy-focused destination.
The renovation project includes a new 36-cover standalone restaurant, led by culinary director James Close being built in the grounds, and the restoration of the hotel’s Grade-II listed Old Hall.
The new restaurant has been designed as a contemporary addition to Rockliffe Hall’s historic estate. The 584sqm pavilion will offer a sophisticated, modern space with the external design drawing inspiration from colonnaded architecture and materials that complement the Old Hall. The restaurant space will be framed by large glass windows, offering views of the expansive grounds on one side and a landscaped area on the other.
The Old Hall project sees enhancements to upper-floor guest rooms, the transformation of The Orangery and its kitchen to become the main resort restaurant, and opening sections between the cocktail bar, drawing room and terrace.
“After the Raby Hunt, it’s great to be stepping back into the process of creating a restaurant at this level, and we’re focusing on really enhancing the guests’ experience both in the restaurant and across the resort,” said James. “I’m particularly proud to be doing it again in the North East, which is where I’m from, and putting the resort on the global culinary map.”
Shauna Robb, general manager of Rockliffe Hall, said: “After a huge amount of work from many people both at the resort and those from external businesses and contractors, it’s satisfying to see the diggers on site and the renovation really beginning. The new restaurant, the renovation of the Old Hall, and all the work that is going on behind the scenes from the team is all focused on positioning Rockliffe Hall as the leading resort in the region with international appeal.”
While the restaurant is being built, James’ role as culinary director involves overseeing Rockliffe Hall’s additional dining options. This includes the development of the concept and menus for the renovation of the dining space in the Old Hall – formerly The Orangery. A new cocktail bar in the Old Hall will focus on expert mixology. Additionally, during this period James will be creating a series of food-focused pop-ups around the resort, and there will be new events and experiences launched this summer. He’ll also be continuing to oversee the direction of The Clubhouse at the resort’s golf course, where the focus is on the best prime-cut steaks from around the world, and Café TERRA, which will serve high-quality breakfast, patisserie, and lunch offerings.
During this period, the New Hall accommodation, golf course, The Clubhouse, spa, and Café TERRA will all remain operational. Completion of the renovation and restaurant is due for the second quarter of 2026.
