A grand house with contemporary style, a leafy setting near the heart of the city. Jesmond Dene House is neither a townhouse nor a country house hotel. It's simply 40 well-designed rooms in a richly historic building offering unstated luxury and rather good food. Overlooking the wooded valley of Jesmond Dene, the privately owned hotel guarantees peace, escapism and a refreshing change. Newcastle's city centre, however is only a five-minute drive. Fresh and light interiors are set against the fine, rich features of this Arts and Crafts house. Big beds, big bathrooms, space to work, space to relax. There are handsome rooms for meeting, dining and celebrating - from the wood-panelled Great Hall to the light-filled garden room. The bedrooms are all individually designed and no two are the same. Some have fireplace, some timbered ceiling, some have private terraces and some cosy window seats. All rooms have a modern sense of comfort: space, handsome looks, sleek furnishings. Muted colours are mixed with bold wallpaper and shots of pink, aubergine or turquoise; fun but not too startling. Furniture is uncluttered and understated with hints of velvet, silk and suede to make you cosseted. Big beds wrap you in Egyptian, cotton pique bed linen. Bathrooms are generously designed with a crisp, clean functionalism. Some have walk-in showers, others have baths with garden views. All have sexy under floor heating. All rooms have flat screen television, digital radio, broadband access, desk space, safe, dvd player, mini-bar, irons and ironing board, and bathrobes and slippers. Food at Jesmond Dene House is as important as the bedroom. The emphasis is on creating fine, flavoursome food with respect and passion for the ingredients. Produce is local and organic where possible. It's food that is about simplicity, craftsmanship and honesty and ultimately, food to please the taste buds. The restaurant has two dining areas; the former music room with its delicate plasterwork and dramatic col.