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Surrounded by ancient stones and quiet countryside, I felt like I had stepped out of time.
Photos courtesy of Antonia Leoni
On a curvy road with soft hills to Matfen Hall, I sat in the back seat of a Tesla car, watching the English landscape unfold wide fields of greenery and quiet farmland. I was reminded of why I love England: for its endlessly beautiful countryside. On my press trip, I was accompanied by other journalists, including FAZ and GG Magazine. As we drove deeper into Northumberland, the clean, fresh air smelled of early autumn, and breathing deeply just felt natural and easy.
Photos courtesy of Antonia Leoni
About twenty-five minutes after leaving Newcastle Airport, we arrived at Matfen Hall — a historic estate nestled in the heart of Northumberland’s parkland. Originally built in the early 19th century, it felt like a place that existed slightly outside of time. Inside, I was welcomed by the soft crackle of a fireplace in the grand hall and handed a cup of steaming English tea. The old stone walls, soaring ceilings, and gentle warmth immediately began to slow me down. The stately home had been carefully restored — honoring its original architecture, a love for detail and design, and thoughtfully curated interiors. Beautiful English wallpaper patterns and textiles brought style and character to every space.
Photo courtesy of Antonia Leoni
Matfen Hall is set within 300 acres of open parkland, with wide green lawns, mature trees, and a 27-hole golf course that stretches across the landscape. Around the main building, colorful flower beds planted in natural shapes add a touch of cottage garden charm, which I love. Benches and seating areas are scattered throughout the grounds — there’s always enough space to find a quiet corner to sit, read, or simply look out over the fields. The scale of the estate creates a sense of calm and privacy almost everywhere you go.
Photos courtesy of Antonia Leoni
Photo courtesy of Antonia Leoni
The country hotel offers 63 thoughtfully designed rooms. I stayed in one of the guest suites set within a small stone building just a short walk from the main hall. It’s part of the former carriage houses, which have been quietly transformed into guest rooms. The setup felt peaceful and slightly removed, yet still close to everything: the spa was only a minute away, and from the courtyard, it was just a few steps to the terrace overlooking the lawn.
Photos courtesy of Antonia Leoni
The room itself was spacious and calm, with soft colors, heavy curtains, and classic English textiles. It looked out onto a quiet courtyard with a calming fountain. I especially loved the direct connection to the outdoors.
Photo courtesy of Antonia Leoni
To bring mind, body, and spirit into even greater balance, I slipped into one of the thick, cozy bathrobes and slippers that were already waiting for me in my bathroom. The spa was just a one-minute walk from my room and offered a high-performance fitness area, swimming pool, jacuzzi, and a poolside thermal suite with an aromatherapy room, steam room, sauna, monsoon shower, ice-cold bucket shower, ice fountain, and treatments tailored by specialist therapists. Swimming is one of my favorite sports, and the large pool was perfect for doing laps. The huge glass roof let in plenty of natural daylight.
Photos courtesy of Antonia Leoni
Back in the beautiful marble-look bathroom, with its large floor-to-ceiling shower and bathtub, I found the perfect place to wrap up my little self-care wellness retreat with a face mask and a hot bubble bath.
Photo courtesy of Antonia Leoni
We settled into a plush armchair in the Drawing Room, enjoying the English Afternoon Tea ritual that I love. The classics that of course can’t be missed at a traditional Afternoon Tea time: we had a steaming pot of fragrant English tea, and an assortment of freshly baked handmade scones, clotted cream, and jam, along with finger sandwiches and delicate pastries. Through the tall windows, we had a peaceful view onto the magnificent gardens, where the soft afternoon light added to the relaxing atmosphere at this cozy place.
Photos courtesy of Antonia Leoni
After tea, there were plenty of ways to explore the stunning surroundings. I took a leisurely walk through the beautiful parkland, wandering along wide garden paths and pausing to watch bees buzzing among the colorful flower beds. For those feeling more active, there’s the option to play a game of cricket or Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the 27-hole Championship golf course, or try their hand at the golf simulator in the indoor simulation room. Whether relaxing or staying active, Matfen Hall offers something for every pace.
Photo courtesy of Antonia Leoni
Matfen Hall offers several stunning spaces to eat and drink, providing memorable culinary experiences. With a variety of unique settings to choose from, guests can enjoy a blend of traditional and contemporary flavors, all crafted with carefully sourced, seasonal, fresh, and natural ingredients that highlight the very best the region has to offer. Food-sensitive options such as gluten-free and alcohol-free choices are also available, ensuring everyone can enjoy a delicious meal. The hotel serves sustainable water from Belu throughout all its venues.
Photos courtesy of Antonia Leoni
If you want to dine surrounded by nature during the day, The relaxed Keeper’s Restaurant with its outdoor terrace and panoramic balcony is ideal. It serves authentic stone-baked pizzas, salads, veggies, and other casual dishes, perfect for a laid-back lunch.
For a cozy dinner, the stylish, contemporary Cloisters Grill Restaurant is the perfect choice. Here, locally sourced produce meets a state-of-the-art kitchen to create dishes that are as comforting as they are refined.
For an exquisite fine dining experience, the Emerald Restaurant offers an award-winning culinary journey. With a focus on the finest, carefully sourced ingredients, its imaginative seasonal menus are designed to delight all the senses.
Photos courtesy of Antonia Leoni
You can also order breakfast to your room and enjoy it leisurely in bed. That’s exactly what I did—I pre-ordered it the evening before. My favorites were the avocado toast, muesli with Greek yogurt, and pancakes with blueberries.
Photos courtesy of Antonia Leoni
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