Address: Castle Garth, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE1 1RQ.
Telephone: 0191 233 1010.
Website: vermont-hotel.com
First impressions: The hotel occupies a fabulous position overlooking the Tyne, next door to the city's medieval castle (or what remains of it). Outside, it resembles a cross between the MI6 building and a 1930s New York apartment block. Inside, it is plush and stylish without being stuffy or ostentatious. Because it is built on the side of a hill, its rear entrance is five floors below its main entrance, which can make initial orientation slightly confusing.
What are the rooms like? We stayed in one of the junior suites, which was bright, comfortable and well-equipped, with beautiful fresh flowers and plenty of explanatory literature on what to do in-and-around Newcastle. We had a sofa, armchair, writing desk, mini-bar and satellite TV, all of which did make the space feel a tad cramped. The appearance was colourful and modern, albeit in that faintly bland, uni-décor style beloved of upmarket hotels.
The bed test: Soft, warm and spacious, although nothing out of the ordinary. Not that it needed to be: given that this is Newcastle, the party capital of Britain, and that by the time we eventually collapsed on it we'd had so much to drink, a slab of reinforced concrete would have felt comfortable.
The best thing: Aside from its excellent location above the Tyne and close proximity to all the city's main tourist attractions, the thing that really elevates this hotel is its wonderful Geordie staff - friendly and professional without being unctuous or excessively formal. Look out for Colin the concierge, with his encyclopaedic knowledge of the local bars and clubs.
The worst thing: It's a minor point, but direct views over the Tyne and its seven bridges are blocked by the adjacent Moot Hall. However, given that the latter, built in 1809, is a key part of the city's civic heritage, it seems churlish to complain about it.
The bathroom: Clean and functional, with all the usual contents - sink, lavatory, bath with shower and lots of complimentary mini-soaps and shampoo bottles.
The restaurant: The slightly unimaginative décor - think Alan Patridge in his Linton Travel Tavern - belies some really superb cuisine (the wild mushroom risotto entrée and duck confit were fabulous). Service is friendly and efficient, the wine list excellent and prices extremely reasonable.
What is there to see within walking distance? Newcastle is a gratifyingly compact city, so basically all the major sights and attractions are within easy striking distance. The revamped Quayside, home to the Millennium Bridge, and Gateshead's Baltic contemporary arts centre and Sage concert hall are just a couple of minutes stroll downhill. Only slightly longer in the opposite direction - uphill - brings you to the town centre, with its numerous restaurants, theatres, shops and galleries. To find a bar or pub, just walk 30 seconds in any direction.
How much a night? Prices range from £130 for a standard single/double room (£120 at weekends), to £550 for the grand suite (junior suites £195). The hotel also does special offers such as the Moonlight in Vermont package: £155 for one night (Friday or Saturday) in a junior suite, with complimentary champagne and canapés. The offer includes dinner and breakfast.
