Blenkinsopp Castle Inn

This was an enjoyable stop on our Hadrian's Wall Walk. It's not close to the Walk, so be prepared to hike a couple miles to get there! But we found it a welcoming place, with cheery retirees (from the adjacent retirement community) happy to chat at the bar. We enjoyed a drink prior to our delicious dinner. Our host Gary clearly enjoys visiting with tourists, and very graciously offered us a drive the next morning back to a convenient location where we could resume our hike.

We stayed overnight at the inn. Don’t! The hotel is adjacent to a retirement trailer park and the hotel car park serves as an overnight stop for motor homes. At 10 degrees outside temperature the heating was not working. The room was airless without any windows. For any ventilation the door to the car park had to stay open. The room stank of cheap cleaning products, stuffy, stale, cold air. The kitsch decor is a matter of taste. Basic comfort though is necessary, especially if the charge per person per night is over $300!!!!. A thin cotton cover was the only bedding provided on the hard bed. To survive the cold I ended up sleeping dressed in 2 jumpers, and woollen leggings, and in desperation used the blanket supplied for dogs sleeping on the bed! The room lights up at night with a large green EXIT sign, which can’t be turned off. Every wall is covered in “don’t do… “ stickers. The bathroom sink missed the drain, the plastic shower cubicle had no handles to actually open the door, and a step in the middle of the bathroom caused me to fall twice during the night. The lady at reception for checkin was as scary as the place itself. The breakfast was good, but we did not sleep a wink. It was a memorable experience, but for all the wrong reasons.

Bloomin marvelous Fantastic food, backed up by great service and good drinks. The steak and ale pie was awesome, as was the teriyaki salmon. A real treat and a great find, you must try it and recommend to all your friends , and make sure Jackie gets commision

The hosts were amazing in their welcome. Room 2 was clean and comfortable. The food was exceptional with great care being taken to ensure my allergies were catered for. We were not rushed for any of our meals. The serving staff were delightful and the wine excellent. Nothing was too much trouble and when we needed to extend our stay they recommended a brilliant hotel. We will be back .

On road home from Newcastle and kids were getting hungry on route home found this sign for food so we stopped in open the door the place just had that homely feel staff were so pleasant even the people in there too it was like everyone knew everyone great atmosphere and the food was well priced good choice slso had kids menu and also good portions sizes too the food was fantastic too and kids loved it well recommend this place if your passing to stop in for something to eat

Lovely ambiance and food served by very accommodating staff. Many thanks.. Slightly strange setting amongst a chalet home estate thingy, but very well appointed building and good beer served. Don’t be put off by the approach. Enjoy the quality cooking