A POPULAR County Durham hotel has unveiled its new look following a £500,000 refurbishment.

Hardwick Hall Hotel, near Sedgefield, has been given a facelift which includes a revamped bar and lounge area.

Part of Ramside Estates, the hotel has also had a new carpet, curtains and interior overhaul of its 120-capacity Boyne Suite.

Owner John Adamson said: “We’ve created a stylish and welcoming bar and lounge area, but still very much keeping the hotel’s traditional feel.

“It’s already being well used for everything from afternoon teas to casual dining and we are very pleased with the results and how much great feedback we are getting from our guests.”

The four-star hotel, set in Hardwick County Park, has 50 bedrooms and offers a range of dining options including its acclaimed Rib Room Steakhouse and Grill.

It also has a number of suites and meeting rooms and puts up large marquees at various points throughout the year, which can hold up to 1,500 people.

The hotel plays host to some of the biggest events on the North-East calendar, including the annual Lobster Ball, the Oyster Festival and Hardwick Live – a newly extended two day musical festival which attracts thousands of attendees.

It is part of a family-owned leisure group including Ramside Hall Hotel, Durham.