Dakota Newcastle, the sixth property in the Dakota Hotels portfolio, is poised to open on 29 March following a £36.5 million investment, bringing a touch of refined elegance to the North East.
Located on St. Ann’s Wharf, the boutique hotel promises riverside luxury with its 118 guest rooms and suites, including the Grand Deluxe, a two-bedroom suite billed as the largest in Newcastle and featuring lavish touches such as a fireplace, roll-top bath, steam shower, and a dressing room.
The hotel boasts a variety of eight room types, with select Classic King Rooms offering striking archway views of the River Tyne. All accommodations include ensuite bathrooms equipped with rainfall showers and Molton Brown amenities, Apple TV with streaming apps and Sky Sports, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, and other high-end conveniences.
Designed with an emphasis on masculine sophistication, the interiors exude cosiness through carefully curated low-lighting and bespoke scents. Speaking at a pre-opening briefing, General Manager Mark Spanton noted the significance of Newcastle’s vibrant transformation, referencing major developments like Pilgrim Street and the Saudi-backed Newcastle FC. He commented: “Newcastle feels like a very vibrant, exciting place to be. We’re confident that Dakota Newcastle will drive growth and elevate the hospitality offering here.”
Matt Townley, group operations director, underlined Dakota’s vision of aligning great cities with great hotels. Having created 120 new jobs, including promotions within the group, Townley also praised Newcastle City Council’s rapid 12-week planning approval as a sign that the city is “open for business.”
Unlike its sister properties, Dakota Newcastle is making a decisive foray into the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) market. Facilities include a 60-person meeting room, private dining spaces, a boardroom, and a library — all serviced by a dedicated events kitchen to ensure seamless operations. The hotel balances business with leisure, carving out an “events wing” that isolates function spaces from the buzz of its restaurant and bar.
Adding further distinction, Dakota Newcastle will debut the city’s first Cigar Terrace later this year, reflecting the resurgence of traditional luxury pursuits. Townley added: “There’s a massive gap in the Newcastle market for a slice of luxury – we’re hoping to add a bit of New York to Newcastle.”