The Rose & Crown, County Durham

Overview

The creeper covered, three-storey Rose & Crown holds a commanding position in the centre of the historic village of Romaldkirk, standing right by the village green and 12th-century church of St Romald. There's a rugged charm to the place, with its narrow passages, beams and stone walls, logs sparkling in the fireplace in the bar, and a touch of refinement in the lounges and oak-panelled restaurant.

The menu is as rooted in the environment as the pub itself, focusing on authentic local flavour. Wooden bench tables and the gravelled terrace out front is the perfect place to perch and plan your day, with a pot of tea or a pint of Black Sheep to hand. Or, on colder dates, head into the comfort of the main lounge with its wood burning stove.

Rooms from

Doubles and twins: £115

Good to know

All major credit cards accepted
Disabled access
Parking available
Private dining
Dogs welcome overnight, and in the bar and lounge areas

Family favourite
The children's menu will satisfy young appetites and the three suites have sofa beds that are perfect for family groups.

Quiet romance
With fabulous bedrooms, a stellar wine list and great menu, enjoy this countyside inn on a quiet weekend for two.

Scenic and serene
Nestled in the charming village of Romaldkirk, with plenty of local walking spots, the Rose & Crown is a great choice for those wanting to switch off.

Dog-friendly
Dogs are welcome overnight in all rooms excepting just one, and for those who do stay over, your canine chums can expect to receive a welcome letter from pub dog Mabel (Director of Canine Relations no less!), as well as a towel, bowl and a pack of local-made 'Welly Bix' dog treats.

Rooms

When it comes to staying the night, it's true to say The Rose & Crown has something for everyone. There's a genuine mix of styles available, but every room is comfortable and tasteful, with bespoke furniture and local artworks on the walls. In the main pub building, the rooms are on the first and second floors. The top floor providing suite-type spaces with the added appeal of views over the village.

Behind the inn is Monk's Cottage, a pretty 17th century building with views over the green and Saxon church, offering flexible room spaces with separate sitting rooms, study areas, boot room and a small galley. There's also the single-storey Courtyard, with its contemporary rooms and private patios.

Restaurant & bar

At The Rose & Crown, virtually everything on the menu is sourced from favoured local suppliers. The well put together menu includes seasonal picks of local trout and game from local estates with fish shipped in from Hartlepool quay. The comforting desserts and an array of local cheeses are firm favourites. Sunday lunches bring in the crowds, arrive early to bag a table.

At the bar, Black Sheep Bitter and Wainwright from Thwaites are the mainstays at the pumps, two of the big guns in this part of the country, with seasonal support from the like of White Boar from the Village Brewer. Wines come from Firth & Co of Northallerton, another local favourite, with a list that has decent global coverage and includes lots of interesting bottles from smaller independent growers, there's always at least nine by the glass. A good range of Scottish malts and some small batch spirits (Durham Gin, for example) all add to the mix.

Things to do

Visit Barnard Castle, an English Heritage property steeped in history. Taking its name from its 12th century founder, the castle passed into the hands of Richard III. Set on a high rock above the River Tees, its fantastic views over the river and surrounding countryside are not to be missed.

History lovers will also enjoy nearby Bowes Castle, the impressive ruins of Henry II's 12th century keep. Situated on the site of a Roman fort, its a great stop for those heading for a day walking on the Pennines.