The first drawings of how a historic and luxury hall near Darlington could look have been revealed after two planning applications were submitted as part of a multi-million pound renovation project.

Rockliffe Hall, the award-winning five-star resort hotel, has submitted proposals to the council to significantly transform the site's grounds and buildings.

Rockliffe Hall near Darlington reveals renovation plans:

The first planning application seeks approval for a purpose-built pavilion that will house a
flagship restaurant. while the second application focuses on restoring the hotel’s Grade II-listed Old Hall.

The Rockliffe Hall groundsThe Rockliffe Hall grounds (Image: ROCKLIFFE HALL) These applications come after the Hall appointed James Close, former chef-patron of the two-Michelin-starred Raby Hunt, as its culinary director in February 2024.

The proposed 584-square-metre pavilion will offer a modern space with the external design drawing inspiration from collonaded architecture and materials that complement the Old Hall.

Inside, the venue will feature a bespoke dining area with an open kitchen, offering an immersive experience to diners.

Drawings of the Rockliffe Hall renovationsDrawings of the Rockliffe Hall renovations (Image: ROCKLIFFE HALL) The Old Hall project will include the transformation of The Orangery and its kitchen into the main resort restaurant.

Plans to revitalise the historic Old Hall feature internal alterations.

Key upgrades include enhancements to upper-floor guest rooms, a proposed new staircase, and opening sections between the cocktail bar, drawing room, and terrace.

Rockliffe Old HallRockliffe Old Hall (Image: ROCKLIFFE HALL) Landscape improvements will also enhance the Old Hall’s north façade frontage, although the plans won't alter the external appearance of the Old Hall.

"The proposed improvements underscore our commitment to positioning Rockliffe Hall as a
leading luxury destination, placing the North East of England firmly on the international
hospitality map while enhancing its value as a regional asset," said Shauna Robb, general
manager at Rockliffe Hall.

"We are dedicated to preserving the estate’s rich heritage while investing in its future, ensuring
we continue to deliver exceptional guest experiences and contribute to the local economy.
Importantly, these developments will create opportunities for local residents to work in high-level food and beverage roles.

An aerial look at how Rockliffe Hall could look once renovated An aerial look at how Rockliffe Hall could look once renovated (Image: ROCKLIFFE HALL) "Once completed, they will further secure Rockliffe Hall’s standing as a premier five-star resort hotel, attracting travellers from around the globe."

Pending approval, renovations are set to begin in February 2025, when the Old Hall will close
for work.

However, the New Hall accommodation, golf course, Clubhouse, spa, and TERRA
restaurant will all remain operational.

James Close, culinary director at Rockliffe HallJames Close, culinary director at Rockliffe Hall (Image: BEN BENOLIEL)

TERRA began as a summer residency for James Close and has been extended until December 21.

From January 2025, TERRA will become the main resort restaurant with a team of experienced chefs that Close has appointed to lead the kitchen while he continues to develop the culinary direction across the resort.

The Old Hall restoration is due to be completed in October 2025 and the new flagship restaurant
build, in December 2025.

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James Close, culinary director at Rockliffe Hall, added: “This project is focused on creating a
world-class dining destination and is the perfect progression of everything we developed and
achieved before joining Rockliffe Hall.

Using our experience, our global travel influences, and the opportunity that the new build offers us, we are looking to create something really special for the North East that will be recognised and enjoyed locally and internationally.”

As part of the proposals, drawings have been revealed of how the two spaces will look once complete.