Crathorne Hall

Crathorne Hall began in December 1903, when James Lionel Dugdale laid the foundation stone for what would become the largest country house built during the reign of King Edward VII. The house was completed in June 1906 and designed by architect Sir Ernest George. He gave the Hall its grand south-facing front overlooking the Leven Valley, along with the main entrance courtyard and its twin bell towers, which still make a strong first impression today. Building the Hall was a huge task for its time. Around one hundred men worked on the site each day. When finished, the house had 115 rooms, including 41 bedrooms, and was run by a large team of live-in staff who looked after every part of daily life. The completion of the Hall was a major moment for the family and marked the beginning of a new chapter at Crathorne.

Originally a private family home, Crathorne Hall soon became a gathering place for notable guests. Over the years, the Dugdale family welcomed politicians, artists, performers, and members of the royal family, including the Queen Mother and Prince Charles. During the First World War, the Hall served as a hospital for injured soldiers, and while it was prepared for the same role in the Second World War, it was never required. In 1977, the family marked their farewell with an Edwardian costume ball, after which the Hall was transformed into a hotel. Today, Crathorne Hall continues its tradition of hospitality and has earned a prestigious AA 4 Red Star rating, along with 2 AA Rosettes, recognizing its outstanding modern British dining.

Crathorne Hall Hotel is a striking example of early 20th-century Edwardian architecture. Its classical south-facing facade overlooks the Leven Valley, while the north entrance features an original courtyard with twin bell towers, blending classical elegance with Edwardian detail. Inside, original features like high ceilings, large sash windows, ornate fireplaces, and intricate woodwork create a grand yet welcoming atmosphere. The hotel’s rooms continue this sense of heritage, with individually styled bedrooms. Many feature views over the grounds or valley, high ceilings, and classic detailing, offering guests a stately, comfortable experience that reflects the Hall’s rich architectural legacy.

The Leven Restaurant

The Leven Restaurant was once the main dining room of the private house and still carries a sense of elegance with its high ceilings and original windows. The menu focuses on modern British cooking with a strong seasonal and local influence. Dishes change regularly, with ingredients sourced from across Yorkshire. Alongside these, guests will find a selection of familiar favorites, including aged ribeye steak and traditional fish and chips. An extensive wine list is available, and the team is always happy to recommend pairings. The atmosphere is relaxed and the service warm.

Opening hours:
Lunch: 12.30 pm – 2.30 pm
Dinner: 6 pm – 9 pm (last table reservation 8.30pm)

The Edwardian Room

The Edwardian Room is one of the most loved spaces at Crathorne Hall, with its beautifully detailed ceiling, large gold chandelier, feature fireplace, and tall windows overlooking the estate. It’s a space to slow down and relax. Guests can read by the fire, enjoy a book, play a board game, or simply stretch out on the sofas and take in the surroundings. The Edwardian Room serves a range of modern British dishes with a focus on seasonal and local ingredients. Guests can enjoy freshly prepared starters, hearty mains such as roasted Yorkshire lamb or pan-seared fish, and indulgent desserts like classic puddings and locally inspired tarts. The menu changes regularly to reflect the best of the season, ensuring every visit offers something new.

Opening hours: From 10 am onwards

The Nancy Tennant Bar

Once the billiards room, The Nancy Tennant Bar now sits at the heart of the house and is a popular place to gather throughout the day. Original features such as wood paneling, arched columns, sash windows, and a feature fireplace give the room a warm and character-filled feel. Guests can stop by for freshly brewed coffee or loose-leaf tea, enjoy a relaxed afternoon tea, or settle in with a light bite. The bar is also a favorite spot for a drink before or after dinner, or for spending a quiet evening with a good book by the fire.

Opening hours: From 10 am onwards

Afternoon Tea

Crathorne Hall offers a perfect setting for afternoon tea, with ceiling-high windows providing far-reaching views of the estate. The afternoon tea features dainty sandwiches, cakes, pastries, and fruit scones, served with a selection of Taylors of Harrogate teas. Prices start at GBP 35.50 (USD 47.95) per adult, with Sparkling Afternoon Tea available for GBP 44.50 (USD 60.10) per person and Champagne Afternoon Tea for GBP 48.59 (USD 65.63) per person. A children’s option is also offered at GBP 17.75 (USD 23.97) per child. The menu changes with the seasons, offering a fresh and varied experience throughout the year.

Opening hours:
Monday – Sunday: 12 pm to 5.30 pm

Sunday Lunch

The Leven Restaurant offers a seasonal three-course Sunday lunch, perfect for family and friends in elegant surroundings. The Leven Restaurant offers a seasonal three-course Sunday lunch, ideal for family and friends in elegant surroundings. The menu blends classic favourites with contemporary touches, featuring starters, mains such as roast meats, fish, chicken, and vegetarian dishes, and a selection of desserts and seasonal options. Prices start at GBP 30 (USD 40.52) for two courses and GBP 35 (USD 47.27) for three courses. Children under 12 have a separate menu at GBP 17.50 (USD 23.64).

Opening hours: Sundays - 12.30 pm to 2.30 pm

Weddings at Crathorne Hall are designed to be flexible and personal, suiting both elegant celebrations and more relaxed gatherings. Couples can tailor the day to their style, from ceremony spaces and decor to dining options and bar setups. Food and drink can also be paired with creative setups, including gin bars, sweet stations, and handcrafted canapés. For couples looking for something interactive, options like build-your-own-burger stations or freshly cooked pizzas offer a more casual dining experience. Private bar setups, dance floors, and decor customization are available, and with E-There's high-quality streaming technology, friends and family who cannot attend in person can still be part of the celebration.

The Edwardian Room
Venue type and style: This grand space features an original marble fireplace, intricate detailing, and a statement chandelier. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the grounds and surrounding Yorkshire countryside, making it a popular choice for larger ceremonies.
Capacity: Up to 120 guests

The Foyer
Venue type and style: An unexpected but striking ceremony setting, The Foyer features arched ceilings, wood paneled walls, and soft candle lighting. It is available for exclusive use weddings only, with ceremonies from 2 pm onwards.
Capacity: Up to 70 guests

Outdoor Ceremonies
Venue type and style: Two outdoor locations are available, set within the historic grounds and framed by the architecture of the Hall. The Leven Valley provides a natural backdrop, with wildlife sounds adding to the atmosphere. Exclusive use of the Hall is recommended for outdoor services.

Intimate Ceremonies
Venue type and style: The Yorkshire Room and The President's Lounge offer period features and natural light through original sash windows, perfect for smaller weddings. The President's Lounge also includes a Juliet balcony with views over the Leven Valley.
Capacity: Up to 40 guests

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Staying at Crathorne Hall makes it easy to explore some of the most scenic and interesting parts of Yorkshire. Each day can unfold at its own pace, with the coast, countryside, and historic towns all within reach. A short drive leads to the Yorkshire coast, where beaches like Saltburn, Runswick Bay, and Sandsend are perfect for relaxed walks, fresh sea air, and time spent by the water.

Robin Hood’s Bay feels like a step back in time, with narrow streets and old fishing cottages, while Whitby offers a livelier seaside atmosphere. Here, the abbey ruins sit high above the town, watching over the harbour and reminding visitors of the area’s long and dramatic history. Back inland, the landscape shifts to rolling hills, quiet paths, and open views. Walkers can explore sections of the Cleveland Way or take on Roseberry Topping, a small but striking hill that rewards the climb with wide views.

Nearby trails lead to Captain Cook’s Monument, passing through woodland and open countryside. Aysgarth Falls offers a gentler experience, where rivers flow over stone steps and shaded paths invite an easy stroll. Cycling is popular in this part of Yorkshire, with calm country roads for steady rides and steeper hills for those looking for a challenge. For off-road adventures, the Cleveland Hills and Guisborough Forest provide woodland trails suited to both beginners and experienced riders.

Families will find plenty to enjoy as well. Beamish Museum brings everyday history to life, while Flamingo Land and Diggerland offer energetic days out. The Forbidden Corner adds a sense of surprise with its maze-like gardens and hidden features. Historic landmarks sit close by, too. York Minster, Durham Cathedral, Castle Howard, and Hadrian’s Wall each tell their own story, making every outing feel like a journey through time.

This Christmas, Crathorne Hall turns into a cosy winter retreat in the heart of the Yorkshire countryside. Imagine crisp walks through the grounds, returning to the warmth of roaring fires, and enjoying festive meals filled with seasonal decor. From intimate family gatherings to larger celebrations, the hotel sets the scene for memorable moments. For a touch of extra sparkle, guests can choose the Bollinger Christmas Experience, with Champagne Bollinger La Grande Année, Brut 2015 served throughout the stay, and a gift-boxed bottle to take home. Festive dining is a treat, from Christmas Afternoon Tea to Christmas Eve buffets, Christmas Day lunch and dinner, Boxing Day lunch, and private dining options. With every detail taken care of, Crathorne Hall invites guests to relax, celebrate, and create new holiday traditions.

Crathorne Hall is perfect for both corporate events and private celebrations, whether it’s a board meeting, a conference, an anniversary, or a family gathering. The hotel has six meeting rooms, with the Drawing Room able to hold up to 160 people. The spaces are bright, airy, and full of character, and there are also lawns and terraces outside for drinks or meals in the open air.

The grounds offer plenty of room for team-building activities or fun experiences arranged with trusted local partners. Every event is planned to fit your needs, making it personal and special. Contact the team to personalise your event and they’ll help you set up everything to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone.