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UK: Developer Aykley Group has unveiled The Sanctuary Knocker, a £2.3 million luxury boutique aparthotel in Durham.
The property is located on Court Lane and inspired by Durham Cathedral’s historic sanctuary knocker.
The £2.3 million project includes the acquisition of the former Court Inn for £815,000, alongside a £1.5 million refurbishment programme to convert the first and second floors into an aparthotel.
The property has four suites.
- The Marrakesh Suite is a Moroccan-inspired two-bedroom apartment with cathedral views and open-plan living.
- The Peking Suite is a chinoiserie-influenced two-bedroom suite featuring statement design, including luxury round bathtub
- The Andorra Suite is a Pyrenees-inspired one-bedroom retreat with a whirlpool bath and views of the cathedral and castle
- The Pioneer Suite is a one-bedroom space with a view of Durham Cathedral and a large whirlpool bath.
The ground floor of the building will be home to The Court, a separate bar and restaurant, operated by the team behind regional venues including The Drunken Duck, The Black Rabbit, The Grey Owl, and Ye Old Elm Tree.
Available services for guests include optional chauffeured supercar transfers, Champagne and bottle service, fully stocked in-room snack bars, and a range of bespoke celebration packages catering for special occasions.
“The Sanctuary Knocker creates an unforgettable experience, not just a place to stay,” said Imad Ali, CEO of Newcastle-based Aykley Group. “We’ve taken inspiration from global travel to deliver something completely unique to the city. Each suite tells its own story, allowing guests to step into a different world while enjoying the best in comfort and service. This investment reflects our confidence in Durham as a growing destination and our ambition to raise the bar for luxury accommodation across the region.”
Highlights:
- Aykley Group has unveiled The Sanctuary Knocker, a boutique aparthotel in Durham inspired by Durham Cathedral.
- The scheme includes the acquisition and £1.5 million refurbishment of the former Court Inn, converting upper floors into serviced apartments.
- The property features four luxury suites (Marrakesh, Peking, Andorra, Pioneer).
- The ground floor will house The Court bar and restaurant.
- Offerings include chauffeured supercar transfers, bespoke celebration packages, and in-room amenities.
