UK Luxury Tourism Gets A Boost As Rockliffe Reveals Its Grand Golf Resort Transformation

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A new chapter of luxury tourism in the UK has begun with the completion of the extraordinary multi-million pound transformation of Rockliffe. The North East’s first and only five-star resort is set to redefine the luxury resort experience. Rockliffe is proud to be the ultimate destination for golf, leisure, fine-dining and spa experiences in the UK.

The extensive investment strengthens Rockliffe’s position as a leading luxury golf retreat by combining championship golf, exceptional dining, elevated accommodation and unique leisure experiences. The transformation reflects a renewed vision to create a destination where guests can enjoy world-class hospitality alongside one of Britain’s most distinctive golf experiences.

A key part of the redevelopment has been the restoration and enhancement of the historic Grade II-listed estate, including the complete reimagining of the East Wing and the introduction of ATLAS James & Maria Close, a new 36-cover restaurant led by Culinary Director James Close, previously chef-patron of the two-Michelin-starred Raby Hunt.

The reopening also brings five additional food and beverage concepts, creating a diverse culinary landscape designed to place Rockliffe among the UK’s most prestigious luxury resorts.

Set across 375 acres of private parkland, the resort continues to centre its identity around its championship golf course. New investment across the property enhances the complete guest experience, combining elite golf facilities with luxury accommodation, wellness, gastronomy and outdoor activities.

Rockliffe now offers 43 individually designed rooms and suites, a 50,000-square-foot spa, tennis and padel facilities, an advanced fitness centre and a range of tailored countryside experiences.

A New Chapter For Championship Golf In Britain

The transformation goes beyond a traditional resort renovation. Rockliffe is strengthening its reputation as a premier golf destination where world-class course design meets luxury hospitality.

The championship course has received significant improvements, including a major bunker renovation programme scheduled for completion in 2026. Additional investment in modern equipment and the greenkeeping team is helping maintain outstanding playing conditions throughout the year.

Designed by renowned golf architects Hawtree, the 18-hole championship course extends to 7,879 yards from the back tees, making it one of the longest golf courses in the UK. The layout provides a demanding challenge for experienced players while offering flexibility for golfers of different abilities.

Advanced drainage systems and year-round maintenance programmes allow the course to deliver consistent conditions across all seasons. The USGA-specification creeping bent grass greens provide high-quality putting surfaces, while five tee positions on every hole allow players to personalise their experience.

The upgraded Clubhouse adds another dimension to the resort’s golf offering, providing refined dining, relaxed social spaces and panoramic views over the course. Together, the improvements create a seamless journey from the opening tee shot to evening relaxation.

Rockliffe Creates A New Culinary Destination

At the centre of the resort’s transformation is ATLAS James & Maria Close, an immersive dining experience designed to establish Rockliffe as a major name in Britain’s luxury gastronomy scene.

The 36-cover restaurant begins with a dedicated Champagne and aperitif lounge before guests enter a dining space built around three open kitchen islands. The design brings guests closer to the culinary process, highlighting creativity, craftsmanship and attention to detail.

The menu draws inspiration from James and Maria Close’s global travels, personal memories and culinary influences. Each course is carefully designed to create a journey of discovery, combining innovation with refined technique.

A chef’s table for six guests, visible ageing fridges and a distinctive spice wall further showcase the restaurant’s focus on authenticity and craftsmanship.

The ATLAS team includes Executive Chef Adam Molloy, Head Chef Shaun Hurrell, Restaurant Director Jack Adams and Head of Wine Manuel Ghezzi, bringing together expertise across food, hospitality and wine.

The wider dining portfolio introduces several new concepts across the resort. Rialto offers an all-day Italian-American dining experience that moves from breakfast and daytime dining to evening family-style meals. Ro provides an intimate cocktail environment inspired by Japanese craftsmanship and industrial design. The Morning Room delivers a sophisticated afternoon tea experience, while Café TERRA combines boutique bakery offerings with relaxed café culture. The Clubhouse provides a premium sports bar setting overlooking the golf course with live sports, classic favourites and globally inspired dishes.

Historic Estate Restored With Modern Luxury

The redevelopment has also transformed Rockliffe’s historic East Wing, blending heritage architecture with contemporary luxury design.

The former Old Hall has been redesigned into a collection of suites and public spaces that celebrate the estate’s history while introducing modern comfort and sophistication.

The interiors reflect the industrial heritage of North East England through bespoke craftsmanship, natural materials and carefully selected textures. Design elements inspired by regional wool and linen traditions create a strong connection with the local landscape.

Bathrooms feature influences from North East sandstone architecture, with spacious layouts, oversized showers, deep baths and premium finishes.

Throughout the estate, specially commissioned artwork celebrates the surrounding countryside and industrial history, reinforcing Rockliffe’s connection to its location.

Luxury Wellness And Outdoor Experiences Beyond Golf

Rockliffe’s transformation expands its appeal beyond golf, positioning the resort as a complete luxury escape for leisure travellers, wellness seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The award-winning spa and Spa Garden provide a comprehensive wellness experience featuring hydrotherapy areas, thermal facilities, 11 treatment rooms, a 20-metre indoor swimming pool and outdoor relaxation spaces designed for recovery and wellbeing.

Guests can also enjoy tennis, padel courts, landscaped gardens and scenic nature trails along the River Tees, creating opportunities for relaxation and adventure throughout the estate.

With championship golf, luxury accommodation, exceptional dining, world-class wellness facilities and immersive countryside experiences, Rockliffe has created a renewed luxury resort offering that aims to become one of Britain’s most complete golf and lifestyle destinations.

“This reopening represents a defining moment for Rockliffe” said Shauna Robb, Group Chief Operating Officer. “We have reimagined the resort to celebrate our regional heritage while introducing a new standard of English luxury. Our ambition is to create a destination where championship golf, exceptional gastronomy and genuine North East hospitality come together to deliver one of the finest resort experiences in the UK.”

Accommodation rates begin at £550 per night for rooms, while suites are available from £1,200 per night, including a bed and breakfast package.