A NORTH-East hotel has installed a pavilion in its garden to offer privacy for couples seeking romance.

The Bannatyne Hotel, in Darlington, has installed the £25,000 pavilion in its grounds, which was officially opened by owner and Dragon’s Den star Duncan Bannatyne.

The cedar pavilion will be available for guests wanting to enjoy private dining or during weddings.

Mr Bannatyne said: “We commissioned this garden room to further improve our beautiful hotel gardens and give our guests something a little bit different.

“It’s a stunning addition to the hotel, which will undoubtedly enhance the experience of our customers. It will also be great for anyone who’d like to dine al fresco during wetter months or if the British weather lets us down.”