Former Court Inn transformed into boutique hotel

A £2.3 million luxury aparthotel has opened in Durham city centre following the transformation of the former Court Inn building.

Developer Aykley Group has unveiled The Sanctuary Knocker on Court Lane, a boutique aparthotel inspired by Durham Cathedral’s historic sanctuary knocker, the medieval symbol of refuge and protection.

The project included the £815,000 purchase of the former pub and an additional £1.5 million refurbishment programme.

The development has converted the upper floors of the building into four individually designed suites, each themed around the imagined travels of an adventurer named William Holme.

Facilities include high-spec kitchens, spa-style bathrooms, integrated technology and views of Durham Cathedral.

The four suites are the Marrakesh Suite, a Moroccan-inspired two-bedroom apartment; the Peking Suite, featuring chinoiserie-inspired interiors; the Andorra Suite, inspired by the Pyrenees; and the Pioneer Suite, influenced by London, Dubai and New York.

Guests can also book a range of additional services, including chauffeur-driven transfers, celebration packages and in-room food and drink options.

Imad Ali, chief executive of Aykley Group, said: “We’ve taken inspiration from global travel to deliver something completely unique to the city.

“Each suite tells its own story while offering guests high levels of comfort and service.

“This investment reflects our confidence in Durham as a growing destination and our ambition to raise the bar for luxury accommodation across the region.”

The ground floor of the building is also set to become home to The Court, a new bar and restaurant inspired by traditional London venues.

The venue is being launched by the operators behind several North East hospitality businesses, including The Drunken Duck, The Black Rabbit, The Grey Owl and Ye Old Elm Tree.