Words Suzy Walkers | Photography coolstays.com, Jane coltman

WHY HERE?

The Cookie Jar may sit among the cobbled streets of Alnwick, but the coast is just seven minutes’ drive away – close enough for an early-morning paddle at Alnmouth, and a bracing walk before breakfast.

Tucked into the historic Bailiffgate, moments from Alnwick Castle, this former Convent of Mercy has been transformed into a small, luxurious hotel with 11 rooms and suites, with most named after much-loved places in Northumberland. It makes a civilised base for exploring a coastline of wide beaches, fishing villages and castles.

Inside, The Cookie Jar feels less like a hotel and more like the extremely stylish country house of a friend who understands that coastal adventures require deep baths, soft beds and a reliable supply of biscuits. 

The interior décor is bold and comforting, with rich blue tones that echo the sea, patterned wallpaper, painted wood panelling, bookshelves, oversized lamps and armchairs positioned precisely where you want to collapse after several hours of being enthusiastically sandblasted by the North Sea.

Dogs are welcome in all bedrooms, although not in the Bistro, Residents’ Lounge or garden. Alternatively, there are five comfortable outdoor kennels for canine guests, with water provided.

DOG-FRIENDLY COASTAL TOWN?

Alnwick is an inland market town, but it is within easy reach of some of the Northumberland coast’s loveliest stretches. Alnmouth, Warkworth, Bamburgh, Beadnell, Seahouses, Craster and Embleton are all close enough for glorious days by the sea.

The town itself is also very walkable, with cobbled streets, shops, cafés and, of course, Barter Books – one of the UK’s most beautiful second-hand bookshops. The hotel is located beside the imposing Alnwick Castle, while the riverside pastures below offer a peaceful walk with views back towards its turrets.

DOG-FRIENDLY BEACHES?

Fora proper coastal dog walk, drive to Craster and follow the path for about a mile to Dunstanburgh Castle. The route runs beside the sea, so continue for another 2.5 miles, then stop for a drink at The Ship Inn in Low Newton-by-the-Sea – famous for its beer and dog-friendly welcome. 

For maximum coastal drama, drive to Bamburgh Beach, which delivers a vast expanse of sand overlooked by the castle, famed as a location for TV series The Last Kingdom and the film Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny. On a clear day, you can see the Farne Islands, where puffins nest in spring – and look out for dolphins or even orcas in the surf just off the coast. 

Another lovely option is walking the stretch of the Northumberland Coast Path between Warkworth and Alnmouth. Expect dunes, wide beaches, and plenty of places to stop and seriously contemplate making a permanent move to the coast.

AND FOR THE HUMANS?

The rooms at The Cookie Jar are fresh, restful and full of thoughtful detail: Hypnos beds dressed in fine English linen, Drench showers, fluffy towels, Penhaligon’s toiletries and, naturally, homemade cookies in a jar. For the full experience, book The Chapel, the hotel’s show-stopping suite, where stained glass and carved wooden beams have been retained. There is a large bathtub, underfloor heating and enough theatrical splendour to make an ordinary Tuesday evening feel like a minor royal occasion.

Overlooking a heated terrace, lawn and garden, The Bistro serves locally sourced food in a relaxed setting.The breakfasts will set you up perfectly for a day beside the sea, while the snug is ideal for returning to with cold cheeks, tired legs and the deep satisfaction that comes from a day spent walking along the Northumberland coast.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

Prices vary depending on the room and the season, but doubles with breakfast start from around £195 per night.

HOW DO I BOOK?

To make a booking request, visit coolstays.com/property/the-cookie-jar/20080.