Originally built in 1872 as a summer residence for the Duchess of Northumberland, The Grand Hotel very much retains its Victorian splendour. Afternoon tea in The Drawing Room or a quiet pint at The Copperfields Bar are great ways to unwind, however I recommend visiting for an evening meal in The Victoria Restaurant – from the moment we entered the dining room we were treated like royalty.
Shown to our table and promptly offered drinks, we perused the menu in mouthwatering anticipation of what was to come. We began with a delicate dish of poached hen’s egg with fresh English asparagus and prosciutto lifted by a wholegrain mustard dressing, and the melt-in-the-mouth butternut squash ravioli with ratatouille and Parmesan – a tantalising start. From an impressive main-course selection we chose pan-fried barramundi with prawn and saffron risotto, and a divine chicken dish. My oven-roasted chicken breast was wrapped in Parma ham and stuffed with sunblush tomatoes and mozzarella mousse, served with sautéed new potatoes, green beans and a tomato and chorizo sauce – just the kind of cooking that has seen the hotel recommended in the Michelin Guide for several years running. Having shared our starters, we kept our mains well and truly to ourselves, such was their deliciousness.
Luxurious dining and sumptuous accommodation are completed by the stunning views of Tynemouth beach. The Grand Hotel’s situation makes it a popular and wonderful wedding venue, yet guests will feel equally spoilt when visiting on an ordinary day for some rest and respite after a stroll along the beach.
