CHRISTMAS has come to an historic hotel where a tradition made popular by royalty has been revived.
Number 11, Houndgate is said to have been the first building in Darlington to put up a Christmas tree in 1853, a tradition whose popularity was led by Prince Albert 12 years earlier.
At the time, the grade II listed Georgian townhouse was owned by the three Proctor sisters who ran a ladies’ school from the house, later moving to nearby Polam Hall.
Houndgate Townhouse is now an eight-bedroom design hotel and restaurant after being restored and transformed following a £1m investment.
Proprietor Natalie Cooper explained: "It must have been quite a thing in 1853 when Darlington's first Christmas tree was put up.
"We opened Houndgate Townhouse and Eleven restaurant in August and we've been looking forward to Christmas since then so we could revive the tradition and bring in a tree."
The ‘father of the railways’ Edward Pease lived opposite number 11 at Pease House in the 1850s and it is believed he reported the arrival of the town’s first Christmas tree.
The new, eight foot tree, which was delivered by Elm Ridge garden centre, has been put in position next to the grand staircase in the hotel reception.
Houndgate Townhouse is open throughout Christmas and New Year with a special Christmas party menu priced at £26.50 per person. For more information, call (01325) 486011 or visit www.houndgatetownhouse.co.uk
