County Durham has been 'snubbed' in the latest round of top hotels, as no venue in the region managed to make the prestigious list of 123.

As the Michelin Guide unveiled its first-ever selection of hotels in Great Britain and Ireland, County Durham lacked representation in the rankings. 

The list is ordered into hotels with 'one key', 'two keys' and 'three keys' depending on how impressive the Michelin Guide adjudges it to be. 

The Michelin Guide, which is seen as the benchmark for restaurants, hotels and other venues across the world, already has lists for hotels in France, Spain, Italy, Japan, the United States, Canada, Mexico and Thailand, it was the turn of the UK to have a hotels list.

Despite venues like Grantley Hall in Ripon getting a nod from anonymous judges, as well as several hotels in Cumbria, County Durham and Teesside were left behind.

According to the Michelin Guide, several anonymous stays or visits took place to look into how good hotels were, and after evaluating the hotels according to five international criteria, the Inspectors awarded 'keys' to 123 hotels from among more than 350 British and Irish establishments recommended in the Michelin Guide's worldwide selection.

Of this total, 91 awarded hotels are located in England, 15 in Scotland, 3 in Wales and 14 in the Republic of Ireland. 

Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide, said: "We are thrilled to present to travellers around the world our first-ever selection of MICHELIN Keys for Great Britain and Ireland.

"Featuring no fewer than 123 remarkable hotels, this selection is an invitation to explore the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland, to visit their historic cities and picturesque countryside, and to enjoy, for a few nights, timeless experiences in centuries-old castles and manors.

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"From iconic boutique hotels or luxury properties in the heart of London to country houses nestled in the Irish hinterland; from magnificent Scottish manors to tranquil Welsh estates: each hotel awarded One, Two or Three MICHELIN Keys is a jewel sculpted by talented professionals.

"Thanks to the digital platforms of the MICHELIN Guide, travellers can now filter their searches and book hotels for what we hope will be unforgettable stays."

Despite the 123 hotels in the UK celebrating, it got us thinking about what hotels in County Durham could have been included in the list. 

Here's what we came up with:

Burnhopeside Hall, Lanchester

Set in 475 acres of Farmland and Estate Woodlands, this place is not far from Durham City and boasts views of open countryside from the venue. 

The House is a Grade II listed building for historical interest, being the home of the steam engine pioneer, William Hedley.

All bedrooms are large with super king-size beds and en-suite bathrooms.

The gardens surrounding the house provide a peaceful setting and the surrounding area is particularly suited to those who enjoy walking and cycling.

As a result of what's been set out above, we believe this place deserves a spot on the 123 list.

Lumley Castle Hotel, Chester Le Street

If you're looking for a historic and picturesque stay, Lumley Castle has stood in the region for over 630 years and provides a beautiful look at the open countryside.

 The hotel boasts 74 luxurious en suite rooms, with guests invited to dine in the Black Knight restaurant, offering varied cuisine and a 3-course table d’hôte menu.

And if you're looking for the unusual, Lumley Castle is the first and only historic site in the UK to have its own Escape room - Lily of Lumley - an immersive and thrilling Escape experience. 

Another venue which we believe should be in the list.

Redworth Hall Hotel

Steeped in history since 1693, the four-star Redworth Hall Hotel offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern luxury, according to the hotel itself. 

This Jacobean-style manor house boasts original features, 143 bedrooms, beauty rooms, and a hair salon.

Nestled within 26 acres of landscaped grounds and woodland, it provides a retreat to guests. 

And what is more, it hosted the England Football Team when they visited the region for a training session - what more do you need? 

If you think another venue in the region should make it into the list, let us know in the comments or on social media.