ONE of the region’s top restaurants has been expanded as part of a £200,000 overhaul of Rockliffe Hall hotel.

The owners of the luxury five-star hotel, spa and golf course near Darlington have invested in a renovation and expansion of its Old Hall. The triple AA rosette Orangery, headed by double Michelin-starred chef Kenny Atkinson, has been redeveloped with new artwork, décor, furniture and lighting.

The hotel’s managing director, Nick Holmes, said: “The Old Hall is the beating heart of Rockliffe Hall and it’s important that it has something to offer all day, every day. The Orangery will always be our flagship restaurant and people flock from all over the UK to sample Kenny’s food. However, now we have more options and are open longer hours including lunch times.”

“The investment is part of our growth plans as we constantly remain at the forefront of not only the UK’s hotel market, but the world’s. We work really hard to put the region on the map and attract people to the beautiful North East and Yorkshire.”

A walk-in wine cellar has been created and Atkinson’s kitchens have been restructured and extended. Capacity at The Orangery has increased to around 80 covers and the restaurant now offers a lunch menu Monday to Friday for the first time since 2009.