Bannatyne Hotel Durham

Bannatyne Hotel Durham is a modern, value-focused hotel located in the Belmont area on the eastern edge of Durham City. Known for its comfortable rooms, free parking and access to the adjacent Bannatyne Health Club & Spa, it offers a convenient base for visitors who prefer easy road access and spacious, wellness-oriented facilities rather than the compact streets of the historic city centre.

The hotel is particularly popular with families, business travellers and guests arriving by car, offering a blend of comfort, practicality and additional leisure facilities that many central hotels cannot match.

Accommodation & Amenities

Rooms at Bannatyne Hotel Durham are simple, well-kept and designed for comfort. Typical in-room amenities include:

• En-suite bathroom

• Free WiFi

• Large flat-screen TV

• Tea and coffee facilities

• Charging points and workspace

• Family rooms and accessible rooms are available

The rooms are modern and functional, providing good space for guests staying multiple nights.

One of the hotel’s strongest advantages is free on-site parking, a sought-after feature in Durham where central parking can be limited or expensive.

Access to the Bannatyne Health Club & Spa

A major highlight for guests is the option of using the health club facilities located next door. Depending on the room type and booking method, guests may enjoy access to:

• Indoor swimming pool

• Sauna, steam room and spa areas

• Large, fully equipped gym

• Spa treatments (bookable separately)

This makes the hotel appealing to travellers who want a relaxing stay with wellness facilities included.

Dining & Leisure

The hotel has a café bar serving light meals, snacks and drinks throughout the day. While it does not operate a full restaurant, it provides convenient options for casual dining or evening refreshments.

For a wider choice of restaurants, bars and cafés, guests can travel into Durham city centre, which offers everything from riverside dining to independent bistros and fine-dining options.

Location & Getting Around

Bannatyne Hotel Durham sits in a suburban area just off key travel routes, making it ideal for guests arriving by car or travelling around County Durham.

• Approximately 10 minutes by taxi to Durham Cathedral and Castle

• Quick access to the A690 and A1(M)

• Local bus links nearby

• Retail parks, supermarkets and local amenities within a short drive

Its location is especially convenient for travellers planning day trips across County Durham, the Durham Dales, Bishop Auckland, Beamish or the North East coast.

Who the Hotel Suits Best

Bannatyne Hotel Durham is a strong fit for:

• Families, with spacious rooms and children’s pool times

• Spa and wellness travellers, thanks to the gym and pool

• Business guests, who benefit from parking and transport links

• Visitors arriving by car, avoiding central congestion

• Sightseers, looking for a comfortable base slightly outside the busy centre

It is less suited to travellers who want immediate, walkable access to the cathedral or castle, though taxis and buses make the short journey easy.

Practical Tips

• Check whether health club access is included in your room type

• Request a room facing away from the main roads for quieter nights

• Allow travel time to reach the historic centre if walking is not preferred

• Use onsite parking, especially at peak times, as spaces can fill during busy periods

• Book spa treatments in advance if staying over the weekends

Final Thoughts

Bannatyne Hotel Durham offers a reliable, comfortable stay with the added advantage of spa and wellness facilities. It excels in value, convenience and practicality, making it an excellent choice for families, drivers, business travellers and anyone who prefers a hotel on the outskirts with strong amenities. With easy road links and modern facilities, it provides a relaxed, enjoyable base for exploring Durham and the wider region.