
A luxury countryside retreat on the edge of County Durham is earning five-star reviews with visitors praising its stylish rooms, scenic hot tubs and standout customer service.
Runa Farm combines a boutique hotel, country pub and wedding venue in a setting described by owners as offering "boho, honest and earthy" experiences.
The venue, operated by the Apartment Group, underwent a multi-million-pound transformation before opening as a 30-bedroom boutique hotel and has since established itself as a popular destination for weddings, short breaks and special occasions.
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
According to its website, Runa Farm was created to blend rustic countryside charm with "cool Balearic vibes", placing locally sourced food and the farm itself at the heart of the guest experience.
The retreat offers a variety of accommodation options, including luxury hotel rooms, glamping accommodation and the original farmhouse, which is available for private hire.
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
Sleeping up to 14 guests across six bedrooms, the farmhouse comes complete with its own garden, private hot tub, kitchen, spacious lounge and even the option of a private chef.
At the centre of the site is The Smithy Pub, serving British-inspired food and drink, while families can also visit the farm animals.
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
Dogs are welcome too, provided they are kept on a lead.
Guests have been quick to share their experiences online, with one visitor awarding the venue five stars.
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
They said: "From the moment we arrived until the moment we left, I've honestly never felt so well looked after during a hotel stay.
"The hotel itself is absolutely stunning – spotless, welcoming, and beautifully presented throughout.
"Our room was unreal. Stylish, immaculate, and so comfortable, with a bed that guaranteed a perfect night's sleep.
"The cocktail-making kit in the room was such a fantastic touch and made our stay feel even more special.
"The views from the hot tub were simply beautiful – the perfect place to relax and unwind.
"We enjoyed both an evening meal and breakfast, and the food was delicious on both occasions.
"We can't wait to return. Highly, highly recommended."
Check out the pictures below:
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
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As well as attracting holidaymakers, Runa Farm has built a strong reputation as a wedding venue, with couples praising its distinctive styling, countryside surroundings and relaxed atmosphere.
One bride left a five-star review: "We honestly couldn’t recommend Runa Farm enough as a wedding venue.
"It’s such a beautiful, rustic venue with the most relaxed atmosphere, which was exactly what we wanted for our wedding day.
"We stayed in the farmhouse the night before with our bridesmaids, and the team couldn’t have been more accommodating, making the whole experience so special and stress-free from the very beginning."