More choice for 'foodies' staying in self-catering cottages

Alnwick and the surrounding countryside is recognised as having many things going for it as a cottage holiday destination but, it has to said that until recentl years, fine dining was not high on that list. That has changed recently with launch of several splendid new restaurants, most of which have received glowing reviews in various regional publications.  Indeed, according to Sunday Times food critic, AA Gill, in one his rare reviews of an eating place outside of the South-east (Feb 2010), "Northumberland is England's finest county".

Below: The dining room at the Red Lion in Alnmouth

Late in 2007 saw the opening of Blackmores in Alnwick, after a major refurbishment of and presumably considerable investment in, a fine stone building located in Bondagte Without. Much of the orginal character of the building has been retained and enhanced but it has it now has a contemporary 'feel' to suit its modern British menu. See www.blackmoresofalnwick.com

Below: Blackmores of Alnwick

There is a large a la carte dining room on the first floor, as well as less formal menu and atmosphere on the ground level. Blackmores has received much praise in the local press and anecdotal feedback from locals has all been positive. The fact that booking has become essential on busy evenings is testimony to its success. As a result we have not yet been able to sample the evening menu, as we have not been able to get a table, although we did enjoy a very good lunch there one day after dropping in on spec.

The Alnwick Garden Treehouse closed for while over the winter to allow the refitting of its kitchen, reopening on Valentines Day this year. They host jazz and live music on Thursday and Fridays, with the cost of that entertainment being included with your meal. We recently enjoyed one of the best evenings we have had in along time at the Treehouse. The service, wine and menu were all exceptional and although at the upper-end of the price scale, it fealt like good value for money afterwards. Again booking is recommended - see http://www.alnwickgarden.com/eat/eat-in-the-treehouse

The Santuary at Alnwick Castle is another new restaurant within Alnwick Castle itself which opened early in 2007 and offers contemporary dining in a an ancient setting. Head Chef David Hall’s cosmopolitan menus reflect his passion for and interest in local food and ingredients. Quality produce is used to create and present exquisite dishes at a reasonable price. The Sanctuary recently announced a 'early bird' menu between Mondays and Thursdays
4.30pm - 7pm. and offers two courses for £10 and three courses for £15. See www.thesanctuaryatthecastle.com

Louis Steakhouse at The Grapevine in Alnwick Market Square was another new addition during 2007. Don't be put off the name or cafe/bistro 'look' of the ground floor, as a smart a la carte dining room lurks above. Again local reports are all positive, born out by the fact that we've not yet been able to get a table when attempting last minute visit. See http://www.northumberlandgazette.co.uk/eating-out/Louis-Steakhouse-Upstairs-at-the.3257295.jp

Having made passing reference to pub bar food, I should also point of that the Red Lion in Alnmouth was recently awarded the accolade of Best Pub Food in The Northumberland Gazette's annual competition. A favorite of both locals and visitors The Red Lion's menu is a match for many restaurants and represents great value. Our five course New Years Eve dinner was quite special and the best thing we've been served on such a, usually over-hyped and over-priced, date in living memory. See www.redlionalnmouth.com/

The Beaches restaurant in Alnmouth is popular with both locals and visitors.  This tiny family-run bistro serves great Northumberland produce, including the best locally caught seafood when available. It's quirky setting and unpretentious decor give it bucket loads of atmosphere.  The restaurant is not licensed to sell alcohol but they are more than happy to serve you with your own, for a small corkage charge. Contact The Beaches restaurant in Almouth tel. 01665 830006

The Ship at Newton By The Sea is a picture-postcard Northumberland seaside pub which seves great quality local rustic food. Locally caught fresh crab sandwiches in a Northumbertland stottie and homemade chips - delicious! It even has its own micro-brewery and a range of guest ales.  A favoriate of dog walkers and families it is often still much of the day whatever the season.  Special events and live music also feature.

The Sportman at Embleton has the most amazing view over the bay and Dunstanburgh Castle.  It's more restaurant than pub, although there is bar serving real ales and they do occassiobally have live music on there. Food is up-market bistro style with great Sunday lunches.  Ask for a table in the window, or if warm enough sit outside, so you can drink-in that view!

Below: The Sportsman seen from Embleton Bay