Romaldkirk is one of those lovely villages where little has changed in 200 years. It sits peacefully in the north Pennines, lost to the world and without great need of it. As for the Rose & Crown, it dates to 1733 and stands on the village green next to a Saxon church. Roses ramble across stone walls at the front, so grab a pint of local ale, then sit in the sun and watch life pass by. Inside, you can roast away in front of a fire in the wonderfully old-school bar while reading the Teesdale Mercury. There’s a peaceful sitting room for afternoon tea, then a panelled restaurant for excellent food, perhaps honey-glazed goats cheese with apple and hazelnut, shoulder of pork wrapped in Parma ham, banana Bakewell tart. Thomas and Cheryl bought the place in 2012 and have been spending money on it ever since: it has never looked better. Stylish rooms – some in the main house, others out back, a couple in a cottage next door – have warm colours, comfy beds, Bose sound systems and super bathrooms. Don’t miss High Force waterfall, the magnificent Bowes Museum or the sausage sandwich at lunch. Dogs are very welcome.
Have stayed here on several occasions with my sister Daisy and my mum & dad, it is the most dog friendly hotel we have ever stayed in. We are allowed in the very comfortable bar where we sit under the table and eat the excellent treats provided by the owner, oh by the way my name is Gilbert and I am a nine year old westie. My dad, Kevin particularly likes the relaxed friendly atmosphere in the bar at lunch time. In the evening my mum, Marilyn likes nothing better than putting on a posh dress for fine dining in the romantic oak panelled dining room. We all love the R&C to bits.