Rockliffe has begun a new chapter as one of the UK’s most ambitious luxury golf destinations following a multi-million-pound transformation.
The extensive investment marks a renewed commitment to being one of the country’s leading luxury golf resorts, combining championship golf with world-class gastronomy, refined hospitality and a collection of bespoke experiences.
At the heart of the transformation is the restoration of the Grade II-listed estate, including the reimagining of the East Wing and the launch of ATLAS James & Maria Close – a new 36-cover restaurant led by culinary director James Close, formerly chef-patron of the two-Michelin-starred Raby Hunt.
The reopening also introduces five additional dining and bar concepts. Set within 375 acres of private parkland, Rockliffe’s golf course remains central to the resort’s future vision.
The resort now features 43 individually designed rooms and suites – alongside a 50,000sqft spa, tennis and padel courts, a state-of-the-art gym, and a range of outdoor experiences.
For golfers, the transformation represents far more than a hotel refurbishment.
A major bunker renovation project, which is set for completion later in 2026, has refreshed the course’s strategic character and playing experience, while new machinery and continued investment in the greenkeeping team are ensuring exceptional course conditioning throughout the year.
The newly enhanced Clubhouse forms an integral part of the experience, offering elevated dining and relaxed hospitality overlooking the course.
At the centre of the reopening is ATLAS James & Maria Close, a 36-cover pavilion restaurant with a Champagne and aperitif lounge, and a dining room centred around three open kitchen islands. The menu reflects the global travels, memories and influences of James and Maria, while a six-seat chef’s table, visible ageing fridges and a striking spice wall adding to the experience.
The wider dining collection includes Rialto, an all-day Italian-American restaurant that evolves from breakfast through aperitivo-led afternoons to family-style evenings; Ro, an intimate cocktail bar inspired by Japanese precision and industrial heritage; The Morning Room, a refined afternoon tea destination; Café TERRA, a boutique café and bakery; and The Clubhouse, which offers an elevated sports bar concept with relaxed classics, globally influenced dishes and live sport.
The Old Hall at Rockliffe has been transformed into a collection of suites and public spaces that blend historic architectural character with contemporary luxury. The award-winning spa and Spa Garden offer hydrotherapy, thermal experiences, 11 treatment rooms, a 20-metre indoor pool, and outdoor wellbeing facilities.
“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.”
