Malmaison Newcastle

Often, initial impressions rely heavily on location and with an enviable view overlooking the River Tyne on Newcastle’s busy quayside, Malmaison Newcastle is off to a great start. As is the case with many of the hotels in the Malmaison group, the atmosphere is warm, welcoming and romantic. Benefitting from dark décor, low lighting and spacious rooms.

LOCATION Definitely one of its definable attributes is the riverside location. The Millennium Bridge towers just a stone’s throw away, and nearby are the Baltic museum and the Sage concert hall while the River Tyne is literally on the doorstep. Within walking distance is a selection of bars and restaurants as well as being only a 15 minute walk from the city centre. STYLE AND CHARACTER With a private driveway and seven-storey stone frontage, the hotel, which was originally a warehouse serving the shipping industry, offers a proud countenance. The perfect kind of place for business meetings or romantic adventures. Smart interiors, purple velvet coverings, Gatsby-esque chandeliers and light fixtures and a dusky colour scheme that follows you through the brasserie, bar and into the bedrooms. After two decades of being open, the hotel still maintains that crisp youthful feeling that attracts those discerning travellers looking for that something special.

SERVICES AND FACILITIES. Staff are approachable and attentive, be them at the front desk, brasserie or bar. With quickly available suggestions on where to go and what local amenities are available. Facilities include a first-floor brasserie restaurant overlooking the river with adjoining cocktail bar, as well as an underground spa with sauna, massage chairs and various bookable treatments.

ESSENTIALS I found the room to be somewhat broody, dark colours, shades of purples, reds and silvers. I enjoyed the dim lighting and the atmosphere it created but I can imagine that not everyone spends as much time writing in a room as I do. The bed was amazingly comfortable and spacious, the bathroom almost large enough to have a sword duel in (an essential quality in any bathroom) and there were handy charging points for smartphone users. Additionally, everything was very clean. COSTS Double rooms from £99 in low season; rising to £145 in high. Breakfast excluded – priced at £12 per person. Free Wi-Fi.

There are five accessible rooms available.

FOOD AND DRINK Chez Mal Brasserie, set on the first floor overlooking the river, is a tasteful venue serving decent fare. The menu includes a wide selection of French and British classics; among others find mussels, Black Angus steak and lemon meringue cheesecake. FAMILY FRIENDLY Rooms are available with two double beds, but there are no specific family-friendly facilities.

Website: www.malmaison.com