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Our stunning collection of new homes at Middleton St George are situated amongst fabulous surroundings. Plenty of places are nearby for your relaxation and entertainment. Decadent restaurants and wonderful golf and spa resorts are a few of the luxurious locations you could visit to unwind. 

One of the most highly recommended local restaurants is The Raby Hunt Inn and Restaurant. This sought after venue is the North East’s first and only two Michelin star restaurant. Led by ex-Masterchef contestant Chef Patron James Close, this fine dining experience is guaranteed to be one of the most unique culinary adventures you embark on. 

Located in the small, charismatic hamlet of Summerhouse and little over 10 miles from our new homes at Middleton St George, The Raby Hunt exudes a welcoming and homely atmosphere. This restaurant is one of only 20 two Michelin star restaurants in the entirety of the UK; if you are intrigued by luxury culinary experiences, The Raby Hunt is not to be missed. 

Owned and run by one of Britain’s most innovative and interesting young chefs, James Close is known for his true originality. Simplistic yet visually stunning, the food he creates is second to none. Seasonality and presentation are some of The Raby Hunt’s most valued priorities. Using only the best ingredients and flavour pairings, you are in for an unforgettable tasting experience. 

Offering a tasting menu of 14 or more courses available from Wednesday to Saturday evenings and also Friday and Saturday lunchtimes, enjoy the exciting flavours of The Raby Hunt with friends or family.

Alternatively, you could book a seat at The Raby Hunt Kitchen Table. Experience the carefully put together tasting menu with a view overlooking the two Michelin star kitchen at work. If you decide to upgrade to the Kitchen Table, you are greeted with a complimentary glass of champagne upon arrival. The Kitchen Table was launched in 2017, where up to six diners per sitting are able to take a front row seat in the kitchen and be personally attended by Chef James Close and his team. This lavish experience is perfect for food lovers who enjoy tasting deliciously unique combinations. 

An extensive wine list is on offer, with the Chefs personally selected favourites from his travels around the wine regions. The restaurant's sommelier will provide information about the wine’s origins and recommend the best pairings to go alongside the tasting menu.

English chef and television presenter, James Martin, ventured out to The Raby Hunt during the Northumberland episode of his new TV series, ‘James Martin’s Islands to Highlands’ and declared it the best food he’d ever tasted and urged people to go and experience The Raby Hunt. Praise from the highly acclaimed chef James Martin shows how fabulous the flavours truly are and how lucky residents of the North East are to have one of the best restaurants in the country right on their doorstep. Find out more about what James Martin had to say here or catch the episode of Islands to Highlands on the ITV hub. 

Foodies from all over the country travel to the North East just to try the exquisite flavours of The Raby Hunt. These visitors tend to stay overnight in the restaurant’s accommodation or in Headlam Hall, a beautiful hotel and spa nearby. Living in this region, you can enjoy these perfect restaurants and spa resorts without all of the extra travel and with the ability to go back to the comfort of your own home the same day.

If you are wanting to book a table at this unique restaurant, you must book via their website or if you are a party of five or six, you are required to book through a phone call or email. The Raby Hunt unfortunately doesn’t admit children under the age of 12 and not all dietary requirements can be met, as the menu is fixed, therefore is not suitable for vegans, vegetarians or pescetarians.

Residents of this local area have many choices for places to dine out and there is definitely something for all members of the family. If you think that The Raby Hunt isn’t suitable for you, there are countless other local restaurants which are family friendly and can cater to your dietary needs. Some examples of these beautiful locations include The County in Aycliffe Village, The Devonport (which is just a short walk away from our Middleton Waters homes), The Old Farmhouse near Darlington, and Cena in Yarm, an Italian inspired restaurant with a stunning atmosphere. 

With our fantastic new homes at Middleton St George perfectly located for a short drive to The Raby Hunt - and all of these wonderful locations! - you really will be spoiled for choice.

And if you are unfamiliar with the North East or would simply like to read more before buying a new home here, take a look at another of our blogs, explaining some of the key points to consider about the North East.