The Ancient Unicorn

didn't like the price differential between booking direct with the hotel to booking with you.

What an absolute disgrace from start to finish! My three sons had kindly gifted my husband and me a Buyagift voucher for our anniversary, allowing us to select a hotel for a two-night stay. We chose this particular hotel as a treat, intending to explore Durham and enjoy a relaxing break. Unfortunately, our experience was anything but pleasant. After a three-hour drive, we arrived at the hotel, only to discover that we had been allocated a twin room with a shared bathroom. This was completely unacceptable, as we had specifically booked a double room with a private bathroom. The sight of two single beds and the prospect of sharing a bathroom with strangers was appalling. Immediately, I approached the gentleman at reception, who then contacted the owner. To my disbelief, the owner disrespectfully claimed that we had not paid for the booking. I explained that we had used a Buyagift voucher, which had been paid for in February. She then stated that the payment had been made to the previous owner and that she had not received the money. As a result, she insisted that we pay for the two nights ourselves. Furthermore, if we wanted a double room, she said it would incur an additional charge. I outright refused to pay again, given that the stay had already been covered by the voucher. Despite my explanation, she refused to acknowledge the payment, leaving us with no choice but to leave. This meant another exhausting three-hour drive back home, not only wasting our vouchers but also the travel expenses incurred. This experience was nothing short of disgraceful. The level of customer service was appalling, and the lack of professionalism was shocking. We were left out of pocket and utterly disappointed. I strongly urge others to avoid this hotel at all costs. A special occasion was ruined due to their incompetence and unwillingness to honor a legitimate booking.

Stayed here overnight on Sunday, 23rd March. Clean, warm and cosy room. We stayed in room 11 which had the added benefit of a little kitchen. The staff were super friendly. The breakfast was lovely. We will definitely be back. A really lovely place to stay. Thank you!

Excellent staff and well positioned for a stop over.

Overnight Stay in Room 5 The Ancient Unicorn We only were there for 1 night but it was a very comfy and enjoyable one. We had dinner there and it was very good also breakfast next morning was cooked as you ordered and a very good choice of cold items we had room 5 and it was a beautiful room with tea and coffee making facilities

Warm welcome from the bar team and locals on our way across the A66. Great hike cooked beer batter fish and (home cut and cooked) chips. Doggo was made very welcome too! Beer and n tap included Back Sheep and a 0% draft beer too (can’t remember what it was but good if you’re using this as an A67 pit stop