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If you're seeking a luxury hotel stay with top class dining and quick access to stunning countryside walks then the good news is you really don't have to travel far.
Teesside Live was invited to visit The Wainstones Hotel in Great Broughton which has undergone a top-to-toe makeover, reopening just in time to welcome summertime walkers. As first-time guests we were unable to compare the old with the new but it's safe to say the historic hotel retains much of its traditional, rustic charm.
Just a stone's throw from the Cleveland Hills, the hotel has long attracted visitors from all over the world, many of whom stop off as part of long walking trips. All the guests I spoke to shared nothing but applause for the Wainstone's hospitality, charm and exceptional food - but more to come on that later.
Stepping into reception we were greeted with the warmest of welcomes from staff who were keen to hear about our plans and offer advice on how to make the most of our stay. We were then taken to our room along corridors decorated in colourful wallpaper with the smell of fresh paint still lingering in the air.
All 20 bedrooms are named after dogs belonging to staff members. Our room - Rio - was decorated in a flamboyant and playful yet tasteful and inviting style. Rooms are individually designed and include doubles, twins and family rooms and there are dog-friendly options featuring dog beds, pamper packs and even a toy for four-legged guests to take home.
After dropping in our bags, we headed out for a quick stroll around the picture postcard village, which boasts two other popular country inns - the Bay Horse and The Jet Miners. Arriving back for dinner it quickly became apparent that the cuisine at Wainstone's has gained a strong reputation with almost every table filled.
Browsing the modern and seasonal menu I would have only one complaint - each and every choice sounded so good I struggled to reach a decision. After much deliberation I selected the popcorn monkfish starter and minted lamb shoulder pie with a red wine jus and creamed potatoes and veg.
Husband was told his choice - the seared swordfish starter wasn't available however the staff member asked if he would like the lobster replacement dish. He didn't need to be asked twice!
Hotel staff make a venue and the team at Wainstones are friendliness personified - they seem genuinely happy to be there and are proud of the makeover which has taken the hotel to another level. Despite all the dining areas being very busy while we were there, the lovely team members were always keen to stop and chat.
While waiting for our meal we enjoyed a Spinyback Sauvignon Blanc - a delightful New Zealand wine with tropical citrussy flavours and a crisp palate. There is also a very tempting cocktail list at the well-stocked bar, but facing a seven-mile hike first thing in the morning, we thought better of it.
The monkfish was perfectly cooked in a light, crispy batter and perfectly complemented with a smoked mango foam, pickled red chilli and tangy lime crisps. The lobster dish was also a delight to both the eyes and tastebuds, cooked perfectly and served with a mouth-watering fusion of piri-piri butter, charred Mediterranean vegetables, feta and edible flowers.
On to the mains - my pie was nop-notch. Think tender pieces of lamp in an amazing rich gravy wrapped in a light and flaky shortcrust pastry case partnered with the most delicious melt-in-the mouth creamed potatoes and perfectly cooked vegetables
The goats cheese and roasted pepper ravioli came with squash fondant and lovage pesto and was again delightfully presented and packed full of flavour. My mistake was choosing two heavy dishes and while waiting for my dessert of summer fruits brule, promptly realised I'd left barely enough room left for an After Eight mint.
It tasted amazing and it was galling having to leave some but the truth is it almost finished me off. What a way to go though.
Barely able to move we rolled on back to our room and collapsed on to the comfy queen bed where we enjoyed a peaceful night's sleep. The room has lots of nice additions such as a coffee machine and tea-making facilities and for those craving a soak after a long walk our room featured an inviting bathtub and deliciously-scented toiletries.
For breakfast I opted for Doreen's black pudding topped with a delicious sweet marmalade and golden, runny fried eggs. Husband chose smashed avocado which came on a slice of sourdough toast and topped with two poached eggs, and a sweet tomato salsa.
Both dishes were hearty and delicious and set us up perfectly for our early morning hike. Along with the quintessential full English options there are also lots of lighter choices including fresh fruit, cereals, pastries and juices.
Perfectly nourished we headed off to the Wainstones walk, kindly declining a offer from the reception staff for the hotel's minibus driver to drop us off at the base of the hills. Along with the food and hospitality, this walk was anther stand-out highlight of our trip away.
After making our way through a bee and butterfly-sprinkled forest, we then started the challenging ascent which took us along craggy paths between vibrant blooms of heather. The uphill scramble is well worth it as the views at the top are thrilling, with a panoramic vista stretching over the valley across to the peak of Roseberry Topping.
We returned to the hotel hungry and headed for a fantastic lunch at The Stones Cafe, a new addition to the hotel. Again packed with visitors, the bright, airy venue offers breakfast, lunch and dinner along with smoothies and tempting cakes which are displayed in the appropriately named Treats TV stand.
There is also a little shop and we took home some Doreen's black pudding and some honey as mementoes of this standout weekend. We came away refreshed, invigorated and excited about planning a return trip in the future.
Rooms start from £120 per night, based on two guests sharing. Contact the hotel on 01642 712268 or email [email protected]
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