Newcastle continues its mission to modernise with its sexiest hotel to date. Historic charm and art-deco glamour blend effortlessly with flourishes of modern luxury at Hotel Gotham, creating by far the city’s most impressive 5-star residence.
Alongside 57 opulent rooms, there’s also fine dining in a dark and moody restaurant and a fancy cocktail bar to boot. What’s not to love about this unashamedly glitzy new hotel?
The location is excellent too. All the best bars and shops are just minutes away on foot, although you’d be forgiven for not wanting to leave Gotham for the duration of your stay. Housed in the old Fire Station on Pilgrim Street, the hotel’s design team has gone to great lengths to honour the history of the Grade II listed building tastefully.
Flourishes of fire engine red are peppered throughout the venue, whilst the Siren Restaurant and Fire Bar can be forgiven for being a little too on the nose with the references, given how stunning they both are.
Upon arrival, we received the warmest of welcomes from a reception team who, from start to finish, could not be faulted. From offering to take our luggage to the room, to the handy WhatsApp messages from reception and turn-down service, everything runs like clockwork.
Now, let’s talk about the rooms. Our Director’s Suite was nothing short of lavish, with its oversized bed decked out in vibrant peacock pillows and a faux fur throw. It was also one of the comfiest beds I’ve ever slept in. The bathroom housed a shower large enough for three people (if that’s your style) and the deluxe ARgENTUM toiletries smell out of this world.
The mini-bar is somewhat dangerous, with numerous tempting snacks, wines, liquors and gadgets, and the room is full of charming touches that elevate the space from the average 5-star. The vintage telephone is a charming throwback, despite the fact that many guests would have no idea how to use it. You won’t want to leave this room.
Dinner at Siren Restaurant also comes highly recommended. Small, intimate and bathed in warm lighting, it’s an ideal date night spot. Showcasing the best local produce from North Shields to Northumberland, the menu is sure to whet your whistle with plenty of enticing options.
The Hand Dived Scallop with foie gras, cauliflower and Lindisfarne mead was exceptional, with the plump and subtly sweet scallop cooked to perfection. The mains too were equally memorable. The Spiced Monkfish with coastal mussels and seaweed velouté was delicate and delicious, whilst the Northumbrian Lamb with fermented garlic, shallot and thyme is a real showstopper.
We skipped dessert in favour of cocktails in the Fire Bar, and what a great decision that turned out to be. In fact, the drinks in here were so good, we cancelled our pre-planned bar crawl to work our way through their menu.
Not only did they mix up a mean Old Fashioned, but they also introduced us to the brilliantly boozy Sorry Mez Jackson. Featuring a generous splash of tequila, mezcal, and coconut rum, as well as black walnut and chilli, this fiery winter warmer sets your taste buds alight in the best possible way.
Final verdict
Hotel Gotham Newcastle is by far the best boutique hotel I’ve stayed at in some time. Its winning combination of decadent suites, top-notch cuisine, inventive cocktails and impeccable service is hard to beat, and its location means you’re right in the heart of the city’s best shops and bars.
It’s by no means cheap, but the effort put into each element of the hotel will leave you with very little to grumble about. Take someone you love for a special occasion and a good time is guaranteed.
Hotel Gotham, Pilgrim Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 6SE.
Reviewed by Fletch.