Matfen Hall Hotel, Golf & Spa

I rarely write Tripadvisor reviews but I felt compelled having looked on here after I had booked the hotel for a recent work trip. I saw the reviews seemed hit and miss but for work purposes, thought it would be fine. Personally, between my husband and I we are globally well travelled and stayed in many 5* hotels. I would happily say, we experienced a 5* venue and 5* service as often you can get a fantastic venue but for me, it is the service which makes it. The icing on the cake, if we had stayed at one of our more local, firm favourite 5* hotels (hour outside of London), I can guarantee the bill would have been double! We stayed in one of the Luxury Rooms. Beautifully appointed with the conveniences I would expect for a 5* - for example, I’m fussy on mirror choices, vanity mirrors and lighting... all boxes ticked. Even the bedside lamp switches were positioned so you could comfortably access them and not hunt for the cable. I saw someone mention the champagne wasn’t in an ice bucket waiting but in the fridge. I’ve experienced both elsewhere and practicality-wise appreciated it being in the fridge as we checked in a little later so I didn’t want the champagne the night we arrived. The glasses were positioned on one of the tables to make you aware along with some lovely chocolates and fruit bowl. We utilised the chauffeur service which was a real bonus for us having flown up and being without a car. We anticipated using Uber but the requirement to do was halved as Alan collected us from the airport, took us to our work meeting and gave us a lift into the city centre. We truly appreciated his time. The food was impeccable as well as the ambience - breakfast and dinner. Service was as I would expect for 5*, for example, my husband went to the bathroom and whilst he was away from the table, his serviette was refolded. It’s the attention to details and service that nail the experience for me and Matfen did just that. I wish I had everyone’s names as there wasn’t a single member of staff who let the team down even when checking out and ensuring we were offered bottle water. I’m particular about the cocktails I like and how they are made - the bar team already had my expectations down to a tee. I’ve not even mentioned how stunning the Christmas decorations were! It was my first visit to Newcastle and I would most certainly return to Matfen in a heartbeat.

Amazing. We had a one night stay to celebrate a birthday and it did not disappoint. So much so I wish I’d have booked two nights. The entrance to the hotel is stunning! Pair that with the Christmas decorations it looked amazing. Our luggage was taken to our room while we had a welcome drink in the bar area which was lovely. The room itself was very nice - the detail, I cannot! Even down the to towels, bathrobes, slippers, all superb not to mention the toiletries! There is no expense spared and it shows - a nice complimentary bottle of champagne chilling in the fridge also. We had food over at The Keepers. Great portions, good quality food with a lovely atmosphere. Someone even came from the restaurant to collect us as it was rainy. Breakfast - exceptional. Plenty of choice, lovely vibe and the staff all super friendly. I will most definitely be returning and would 100% recommend. My only regret - I didn’t book an extra night in order to use the spa facilities and have more time to explore the grounds and local area. Thank you so much Matfen Hall for a lovely birthday treat and all round fantastic stay. 10/10!

Not sure where to begin, I have visited Matfen 3 times and everytime it’s been an incredible experience in terms of everything. The hotel itself and the grounds are stunning, the food and rooms are second to none but for me it was the staff and their service. The staff made the experience, nothing is a problem, Claire on reception, Desmond the porter, Joe and Kara in the restaurant and Hamish. Our requests might have been questionable at times but the staff go above and beyond. I left my coat in the car and it was cold the staff went to collect it for me and delivered it to the room. There is not one request they wouldn’t deliver on. Received an upgrade from Claire when we arrived last week into a stunning garden room. We are maybe not the most easiest guests to please when we stay places but it is our perfect place based on the staff you are all amazing