The Bailiffgate Hotel is set to welcome its first guests at the end of May.

Nestled beside Alnwick Castle, the Bailiffgate Hotel occupies the former Commissioner’s House - a building that later became the Duchess’s School in 1888, originally founded by Duchess Julia 80 years prior.

Now, after years of renovation work, the historic site is set to open its doors.

The hotel features 48 individually designed rooms, including 14 suites (Image: Supplied) Bernard Bloodworth, general manager, and a former pupil of the Duchess’s School, said: "We’re delighted to be taking bookings as work nears completion and are looking forward to welcoming our first guests to experience Bailiffgate Hotel in May.

"As someone who once walked these halls as a student, it’s incredibly special to now lead a team bringing this building back to life in such a meaningful way."

The hotel features 48 individually designed rooms, including 14 suites spread across the original Georgian structure and a modern five-storey extension.

Rooms are spread across the original Georgian structure, and a modern five-storey extension (Image: Supplied) Guests can take in sweeping views of Alnwick Castle, The Pastures, or the courtyard gardens.

Accommodations include the Castle View Double, the Terrace Suite with its private outdoor area, and the Grand Commissioner Suite – a nod to the building’s heritage.

The dining room at Bailiffgate is set to become a destination in its own right.

The Motte & Bailey restaurant, led by Paul Blakey, executive head chef, serves modern British cuisine inspired by ingredients from the area.

The Bailiffgate Hotel will offer traditional afternoon tea (Image: Supplied) Guests and visitors can have brunch, traditional afternoon tea in the Garden Room, or alfresco dining in the Courtyard Garden.

The Commissioner’s Bar, set in the original house, offers a fireside setting for cocktails and spirits.

Private dining experiences are also available in the exclusive Mrs Bowmaker’s Room – named after the school’s first headmistress.

With its location just steps from Alnwick Castle and a short drive from the Northumberland coast, the Bailiffgate Hotel is well-positioned for guests looking to explore the region.

The Bailiffgate aims to play a significant role in supporting and enhancing the area's tourism economy, attracting both domestic and international visitors.

By creating permanent jobs, sourcing produce from the area, and collaborating with nearby attractions and businesses, the hotel is hoping to become an integral part of Alnwick’s visitor economy - encouraging longer stays and increased footfall.

The hotel has already created 70 permanent jobs, with recruitment ongoing for a range of positions.

During construction, more than 250 workers from the area, and more than 200 weeks of apprenticeships contributed to bringing the project to life.

Bookings for overnight stays and restaurant reservations are now open via the hotel’s website.