The Cookie Jar

The Cookie Jar

, 12 Bailiffgate, Alnwick, Northumberland.

It would be hard to find a more perfectly positioned boutique hotel. The Cookie Jar is just 100m from the main gate of Alnwick Castle, the seat of the Dukes of Northumberland. Located in a quiet row of townhouses, there is parking directly outside and it's only a short stroll past the castle to the historic town centre.

Everything about the furnishings and decor in The Cookie Jar seems to be just about perfect. It has clearly been designed by someone with a great eye for colour and detail. The reception area blends smoothly through into the lounge area with it's big comfy chairs and sofas and the amply stocked bookcase. Drinks are served in the lounge.

The same immaculate design shines through in the dining room, where breakfast lunch, afternoon tea and dinner are served. At present, dinner is only available on a couple of nights per week, but the staff are always ready with recommendations for a variety of restaurants in the town or a short drive away. The food is excellent.

The dining room windows look out into the garden where there is a large terrace with patio heaters, tables, chairs and all-weather sofas. The special accommodation for pets is also here.

More luxury shines through in the guest bedrooms, with big beds, lots of space, tasteful colours and lovely plump duvets.

A visit to Alnwick Castle is a must, both for the castle itself and also for the gardens and huge parkland that surround it. The whole town of Alnwick is attractive with lots of stone architecture, pubs, restaurants, an amazing bookshop and a large arch (with a small opening!) through which all traffic has to pass. This location also provides access to Kielder Forest, Lindisfarne, Bamburgh Castle, the Northumberland coast and pretty little Alnmouth. A few days here will undoubtedly be time well spent.