A hotel has become the first in Northumberland to receive a five-star rating from the AA.

The Grade II-listed Matfen Hall passed an inspection to gain the status.

The venue recently underwent a multi-million-pound refurbishment, which included renovations to the Great Hall, dining areas, bars, and bedrooms.

The Great Hall was restored, and a new bar with a mezzanine was created, alongside investment in The Cloisters Restaurant and Bar, and new kitchens.

The estate's 27-hole Championship golf course, as well as its spa and fitness suite, are set for further investment and development over the coming months as part of plans by owner Walwick Estate Group.

The AA inspectors said: "Matfen Hall is a luxurious and elegant stately home set in 300 acres of beautiful Northumbrian countryside."

James O’Donnell, head of commercial development at Matfen Hall, said: "We’re delighted to receive such a prestigious accolade which is testament to all of the hard work by the whole team at Matfen Hall.

"This is also a great acknowledgement of the vision and investment by Walwick Estate Group, and its dedicated focus on achieving the very highest level of quality, setting us apart as a leading luxury venue.

"The AA five-star rating is regarded universally as a key benchmark of quality and we look forward to ensuring we exceed expectations as part of a programme of continuous improvement that will see further significant investment, including the golf and spa offer."

Matfen Hall joins its sister property, Chester Stables, as an AA five-star venue.

The collection of self-catering stable suites, in Hexham, was awarded a five-star rating in the Self Catering Accommodation category earlier this year.

AA Five-Star ratings are awarded only to hotels which provide luxurious accommodation and public areas, where guests are greeted at the hotel entrance.

Along with high standards of food and drink, hotels must also demonstrate a host of extra facilities and a multilingual service.