After hearing about The Lord Crewe’s recent makeover, there was no doubt about it, I had to see this stunning boutique hotel in all its new and shiny glory.
Following a busy day at Luxe HQ, it was straight into the car and on the road, aiming to arrive before our 7pm reservation in the restaurant.
As myself and my partner exchange pleasantries in the car, discussing our days and laughing about how we’ve already eyed up the menu, we hit a bump in the road.
Someone (and by that, I sheepishly mean me) entered the wrong postcode into the sat-nav and added an hour long detour onto our journey.
A little flustered and panicking about the possibility of arriving late, we pull up 10 minutes before our booking and have a moment to spare to admire the beauty of the sky as the sun begins to set over this stunning location.
LOCATION
When it comes to location, you couldn’t ask for anything better.
Peacefully placed in the heart of Bamburgh, The Lord Crewe is just a stone’s throw from the village’s award-winning beach and has the picture-perfect Bamburgh Castle as its backdrop.
With a variety of bus routes, just 4.4 miles away from the nearest railway station, and easily accessible from the A1 for those travelling by car, this stunning spot by the coast is easily reachable, while having the ability to feel worlds away.
Visiting for the first time, I’m in awe of the beautiful scenery and amazed by its prime, yet quiet location.
FOOD & DRINK
A little shy on parking space at the front of the building, we park our car on the opposite side of the road and head for the entrance.
Greeted with a smile and guided to our table for two, we sit down and reach for the wine menu.
It’s a bottle of Toledana, Gavi di Gavi, Domini Villa Lanata, Italy (£42) that seals the deal for us – a refreshing gooseberry and mineral style dry white with delicate floral hints.
The friendly staff are a delight to chat to here and are always on hand to advise and recommend.
Led by the former Head Chef of The Crab & Lobster Restaurant and Crab Manor Hotel in Asenby, North Yorkshire, The Lord Crewe specialises in luxurious seafood dishes, with a strong focus on high-quality and local produce.
First up, it’s the evening special of crispy squid (£14) served in a delicious tempura batter with a drizzle of sweet chilli sauce and garnished with peppers, spring onions and chillies.
A beautiful dish packed with a variety of textures and flavours.
My partner goes for the grilled queenie scallops (£14) which are deliciously coated in garlic and almond butter, gruyere cheese and fresh bread crumbs. Infused with an abundance of flavour and presented ever so beautifully, they go down a treat.
Our mains are served and for me it’s the 10oz ribeye steak (£31.95) served with a roast plum tomato, flat cap mushroom, peppercorn sauce, watercress and hand-cut chips. Seasoned to perfection, every bite was sensational.
The side of hand cut chunky chips deserve their own special mention – soft and fluffy potato wrapped in a crunchy exterior – a delight to the tastebuds.
My other half goes for the slow cooked lamb shoulder (£25.95) served with creamed potatoes, tenderstem broccoli and tomato and basil jus – and it’s safe to say, he was not disappointed with his choice.
Cooked slowly and delicately, the melt-in-the-mouth flavours paired with the creaminess of the potatoes, ensuring a palate pleasing experience.
With no room left, we politely declined the dessert menu. But after witnessing the table next to us tuck into the most heavenly dishes, we give it some time and finish things off with something sweet.
I can’t resist the sticky toffee pudding (£8.95), coated in a delicious butterscotch sauce and a generous helping of vanilla ice cream.
Looking for something a little more tangy, it’s the lemon posset (£8.95) served with raspberries and sorbet for my dinner date.
LAY YOUR HEAD
The Lord Crewe features seven individually designed bedrooms. Newly-refurbished, these luxurious rooms are designed to maximise relaxation and provide the perfect setting to rest after exploring the beautiful Northumberland coastline.
All rooms are kitted out with Molton Brown toiletries, a smart TV, luxurious bathrobes, Nespresso machine and homemade cookies.
After finishing our evening meal, we retired to our bedroom for the evening. Guided upstairs, we had the pleasure of chatting with a lovely member of staff who gave us the lowdown on the recent refurbishment and a tour around our room.
As soon as we step through the door, the wow factor hits us.
The neutral decor paired with hints of quirky furniture and textured accessories, makes for a beautiful chic interior.
Equipped with a wardrobe and bedside units, there’s ample space for unpacking and making yourself at home.
The huge and comfortable bed with an individually wood panelled headboard is a highlight for me, while the funky patterned sofa takes centre stage in the middle of the room.
The bathroom offers a timeless, classic feel with sage tones and bright white fittings.
The whole place oozes charm and sophistication while remaining cosy enough to make you feel right at home.
Despite being in the centre of the village, the next morning we wake to peace and quiet – and the blackout blinds go down a treat for a long Saturday morning snooze.
With all of the modern amenities for a luxury overnight stay, we have everything we need to get ready for the day ahead before heading down to the restaurant for a hearty, full English breakfast.
DO THIS
Location, location, location.
When it comes to exploring the best Northumberland has to offer, you’ve got the best seat in the house.
Step outside, turn right and you’re at the foot of Bamburgh Castle.
Whether you’re a culture vulture or not, you’ll be thrilled with the hotel’s location in the heart of the village – even if it’s just for the breathtaking views!
Steeped in mediaeval history and packed with heaps to do and plenty to see, it’s a day out for the whole family.
A short stroll across the road from The Lord Crewe, you will stumble upon luscious green lawns with ample space for games and picnics and a park for children to play.
If you continue to walk down this route, you will come to the award-winning Bamburgh beach. The dreamy white sand that floods this beach is like something you’d see in the Caribbean.
The dog-friendly spot offers plenty of space for long, wind-swept walks, beach games and sandcastle creations.
With breathtaking views up to Bamburgh Castle and Inner Farne Islands in the opposite direction, you can see why this idyllic location is one of the North East’s most-loved.
