Headlam Hall shortlisted for prestigious Condé Nast Johansens Best Rural Hotel award
A family-owned County Durham hotel is calling on people across the region to get behind it after being named a finalist in the prestigious Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2027.
Headlam Hall Hotel & Rural Retreat, located near Barnard Castle, has been named a finalist in the Best Rural Hotel category, recognising its combination of historic character, countryside setting and thoughtful guest experiences.
Set within the rolling County Durham landscape, the hotel has become known for its approach to slow escapes, giving guests the opportunity to step away from busy everyday life and enjoy a more considered countryside break.
The 38-bedroom Jacobean country house combines traditional charm with modern rural hospitality, allowing guests to shape their stay at their own pace. From exploring the four acres of walled gardens and kitchen garden to making use of the spa, nine-hole golf course and outdoor activities, the experience is centred around relaxation, wellbeing and reconnecting with the countryside.
Thomas Robinson, Director at Headlam Hall Hotel, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have been shortlisted for the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence.
“To be recognised alongside some fantastic hotels from across the UK and Europe means a great deal to the whole team, particularly because so many of our guests have been coming back to Headlam for years.”
The hotel has continued to evolve its offering while retaining its rural character. Recent investment has included a new terraced spa area and enhanced hydrotherapy pool, creating a year-round space for guests to unwind while taking in views across the surrounding countryside.
Its connection to the landscape also comes through in the food, with seasonal menus featuring produce from the kitchen garden and local suppliers, served across relaxed spaces including the Orangerie, Library Bar and Spa Brasserie.
Thomas added: “Headlam has always been about giving people the space and time to enjoy the countryside, while continuing to evolve what we offer. New additions such as the Paddock Bar and private dining Feed Room give guests different ways to experience the hotel, while keeping the character and sense of place that makes Headlam distinctive.”
That sense of place is closely tied to the hotel’s history. The Robinson family acquired the Jacobean Hall in 1977, originally purchasing the estate land as part of their farming business. Over nearly five decades, they have transformed the once-neglected property into a thriving rural retreat while retaining its independent, family-led character.
The Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence celebrate hotels and hospitality businesses across the organisation’s collection, with up to four properties shortlisted in each award category.
Voting for the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2027 is open until Monday 19th October 2026.
To vote for Headlam Hall, visit: https://www.johansens.com/awards/?property-name=Headlam+Hall
For more information about Headlam Hall, visit www.headlamhall.co.uk
