Fit for Royalty (Durham Marriott Hotel Royal County (Durham))

Member Name: Zmugzy

Product:	Durham Marriott Hotel Royal County (Durham)
Date:	03/07/07 (210 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Convenient location

Disadvantages: Parking difficulties

I stayed at the Marriott Royal County recently whilst visiting relatives on a short break in Durham. The hotel is very easy to find as it is situated right in the heart of Durham city centre and set right next to the tranquil river Weir that runs through the city. Local shops are only a five minute walk away as are local pubs and restaurants. This hotel also makes a good choice if you're visiting anyone who is resident at the university as the colleges are well within walking distance. This is truly an ideal location from which to explore the cobbled streets of Durham.

The Marriott Hotel in Durham is quite a luxurious place. The building itself dates back to the 17th century, but despite this it possesses all the facilities that you might expect from a modern hotel. Inside you will find some luxurious historic features such as he magnificent Black Oak stair case, the wonderful Organ Clock and throughout the hotel on many of its walls there are fascinating original prints depicting various locations in Durham throughout the centuries.

The double bedroom that I stayed in was most elegantly furnished. There were fresh flowers in the room, the carpets were spotless. The adjoining bathroom, like the room, was also immaculate. The bed was very comfortable and the room smelt fresh. There was also a nice comfortable sofa in the room and two bedside tables with elegant reading lamps. The rooms also seemed well insulated as of an evening there was no problem with noise levels from the other rooms. There were plenty of facilities including a TV with satellite connection and also a socket for high-speed internet, although I didn't get to use it as I was without my laptop. What I liked most of all about the room though, was the wonderful view. From my room I could see the magnificent setting of Durham Castle.

The hotel has a large main dining area called the County Restaurant. Here breakfast is served as well as the main evening meals. There is plenty of variety on the menus but I did find a rather limited choice for vegetarians (as is often the case). The dining areas is spacious and there are plenty of tables. I usually took my breakfast at about 9.00 am and there were always at least two tables available. Breakfast is self service. Of an evening, as an alternative to the main dining area, you can relax and have something to eat in the smaller and less formal Cruz Brasserie. You can also hang out at the Durham bar which serves a range of exquisite cocktails as well as some of the finest selected beers from the region. The bar is immaculately clean and well run by friendly staff.

The hotel has a luxuriant lounge area and also a conservatory were you can relax and take afternoon tea. If you feel up to it, you can take advantage of the Leisure Club which comprises a gym, sauna and Jacuzzi. There is also an indoor heated pool which is absolutely beautiful with soothing lighting and plenty of greenery. If you get there early in the morning you might get the pool to yourself as I did on one occasion.

The service in the hotel was first class. There was a warm welcome upon arrival and I was made to feel at home as soon as I arrived. Everyone at the 24 hour reception was friendly and very helpful with any questions I had. When it came to checking in and out, the service was excellent and efficient. My bill was settled and we I was ready to leave within about 10 minutes of arriving at the reception desk. I only wish I could have stayed longer and I'm sure I shall certainly be staying there again in the near future.

One problem you might find is trying to find a parking space. There is a car park on site at the hotel but there are only a few spaces and trying to find a parking space nearby in the city centre is almost impossible. You might find yourself having to park a few miles from the city centre. However, personally I dont regard this as a negative factor because I think car use should be discouraged in such beautiful historic places like Durham.

All the details of prices and directions etc can be found at the hotels excllent website:
http://www.marriott.co.uk/Channels/hotels-uk/
hotels/travel/
xvudm-durham-marriott-hotel-royal-county/

Summary: Quality hotel suitably located