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A LOCAL hotel has been transformed, following an ambitious refurbishment programme led by Lady Barnard.

The High Force Hotel, in Upper Teesdale, which is owned by Raby Estates, has been returned to its former glory in a six-month refurbishment designed to enhance its country inn heritage.

Work on the ground-floor bar, dining, and reception areas was completed during the autumn, with the final phase of the programme completed earlier this spring, transforming the hotel’s six boutique en suite guest bedrooms.

“The hotel is in such a breath-taking location opposite England’s highest waterfall and within the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and our ambition has been to create a restful and stylish rural retreat in this very special place,” says Claire Jones, Head of Leisure and Tourism for Raby. “We were keen to retain the heritage features of the building, whilst adding modern touches to bathrooms and guest bedrooms, creating a cosy but traditional feel.”

The new managers of the hotel are Andrew Lindsay and George Dunn, who have been heavily involved in the refurbishment and developing new menus. “The new-look bar, restaurant and reception areas have gone down really well with customers, and we have established quite a reputation as a Sunday lunch destination, with visitors enjoying a stroll across to the waterfall either before or afterwards,” says Andrew.

“Lady Barnard has been involved with the works from the beginning. She has a real eye for detail and most of the décor and furnishings have been selected by her. The way the original features and characteristics have been brought to life in the public rooms is perfect. I especially like the new open fires which have been put in to the lounge – they create such a welcoming ambience.”

Both Andrew and George have a wealth of experience in the hospitality business and have worked at some prestigious venues; Andrew at Gisborough Hall, George at Grinkle Park, Dunsley Hall and the Ellerby Hotel near Whitby, and they both worked on the Swinton Estate, near Masham. Of the move to High Force, Andrew said, “When the opportunity arose, we could see such great potential. We both knew it could be a very special place.”

Their maxim for a successful country pub is simple: excellent hospitality coupled with good customer service. “Get this right, and everything else will hopefully fall into place,” says Andrew.

Dogs – and the muddy boots that accompany walkers – are welcome in the bar. “We are fully dog-friendly throughout,” assures Andrew. “All of our floors downstairs are restored wooden boards, so are very accommodating for muddy feet - whether you have two or four.”

The High Force Waterfall woodland walkway is open all year round from 10am. Tickets are available from the kiosk throughout the summer, and from the hotel in winter.

www.raby.co.uk

The High Force Hotel, Alston Road, Middleton-in-Teesdale, Forest-in-Teesdale, DL12 0XH

Telephone: 01833 622336