40 Winks Guesthouse Durham

They didn’t hold back when decorating 40 Winks, a fancy Durham guesthouse that is a place of plush fabrics, patterned wallpaper and chandeliers. It’s a little bit of opulence in a peaceful part of the city and a lovely place to stay if you want to explore historic Durham and its surroundings. Situated on a cobbled street above the River Wear, you can see the cathedral tower from some of the guest bedrooms – and you can walk to it in under 10 minutes.

This Grade II-listed Victorian townhouse offers nine guest bedrooms spread across its first and second floors. All have a theme that lends itself towards opulent decor, whether that’s floral, Gothic or regal. They range from the garden-view Woodland Rooms to The Gala Room, its master suite, which has both a roll-top bath and a super king-size bed, plus tremendous views of the city. For all its modern conveniences (Smart TVs and WiFi included), 40 Winks retains the character of its era through bay windows and dado rails, all set off with elegant upholstery and damask wallpaper. It’s a similar story in the other named rooms. The Woodland Rooms are cosier and share a modern aesthetic, which means more pared-back styling but no less elegance or comfort. Whichever you choose, you’ll have a king-sized bed, an en-suite with Molton Brown toiletries provided, and the usual inclusions of tea, coffee and a TV (the Cathedral Rooms even have decanters for a cheeky nightcap). You’ll also still enjoy the luxuriant decor of the common areas of the guest house.

The grand staircase that leads you from the reception to your bedroom is a striking introduction, with bold bird-print on the walls and tiered chandeliers hanging through the middle. The Snug room is a guest lounge with an honesty bar and playful prints on the cushions and walls. The breakfast room is slightly more serious but no less flamboyant – all reds and golds – and it makes a luxurious backdrop for a highly-rated breakfast that’s the perfect start to a day in the city. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed castle and cathedral are a short walk away, the main university buildings are a couple of miles from here and the river provides a peaceful place for a walk.