Tucked away on one of Durham’s most historic streets, a new chapter in the city’s hospitality story is unfolding.
Behind the doors of the former Court Inn on Court Lane, The Sanctuary Knocker has emerged as a bold and immersive luxury aparthotel – one that blends heritage, storytelling and design into a truly distinctive and memorable experience.
Developed by Aykley Group, the £1.5 m transformation is more than a refurbishment, it is a reimagining of what boutique accommodation in the city can be. Named after the famous sanctuary knocker at Durham Cathedral – a medieval symbol of refuge and protection for those seeking a safe haven – the development is rooted in a powerful idea.
For Imad Ali, director of Aykley Group, the concept is centred on a sense of escape: “The name reflects exactly what we wanted to create,” he explains. “A place where people can switch off, feel protected from the outside world and experience a level of comfort and indulgence that’s completely their own.”
It’s this sense of retreat that is brought to life through four individually designed suites, each inspired by global destinations and the imagined travels of a returning adventurer. Rather than following a uniform aesthetic, each space has its own identity, designed to evoke a mood as much as a place.
The two-bedroomed Marrakesh Suite is rich and atmospheric, layered with warm tones, carved wood detailing and soft, ambient lighting. Influenced by Moroccan interiors, it feels cocooning and intimate, with earthy textures and intricate finishes creating a sense of depth and warmth.
By contrast, the Peking Suite, also with two bedrooms, embraces a more dramatic, design-led approach. Drawing on chinoiserie influences, it combines bold patterns, dark tones and statement features, including a striking circular bathtub that anchors the space. It is a suite that feels theatrical yet refined, designed both for comfort and visual impact.
The Andorra Suite offers a calmer, more restorative experience. Inspired by the Pyrenees, it introduces softer palettes and layered textures to create a soothing, almost alpine retreat. With an emperor bed, whirlpool bath and views towards Durham Cathedral and Castle, it’s a space designed for complete relaxation.
Meanwhile, the Pioneer Suite channels a more contemporary, cosmopolitan feel. Influenced by cities such as London, Dubai and New York, it blends clean lines with rich materials and subtle detailing, delivering a modern take on luxury that feels both stylish and understated.
Across all four suites, there is a consistent attention to detail, with high-spec kitchens, spa-quality bathrooms, luxury linens and integrated technology are paired with curated interiors and signature aromatics. The result is a collection of spaces that feel both elevated and deeply personal.
“Each suite tells its own story,” says Mr Ali. “We didn’t want a standard hotel experience. We wanted people to feel like they’re stepping into a different world each time they stay.”
That experience extends beyond the rich interiors. Guests can opt for supercar chauffeur transfers, arriving in a Rolls-Royce, G-Wagon or Lamborghini Urus, while in-room services include Champagne delivery, premium snack bars and tailored celebration packages. From rose petal displays to bespoke styling for proposals or special occasions, every element is designed to create what Ali describes as “Instagrammable yet intimate” moments.
“Luxury today is about experience,” he adds. “It’s about creating something memorable, something people want to share, but also something that feels personal to them.”
The development also marks the return of hospitality to the ground floor of the building. The Court, a new bar and restaurant, is set to restore the site’s long-standing social presence, bringing a fresh energy to Court Lane.
Led by experienced North East operators behind venues including The Drunken Duck, Hibou Blanc and The Black Rabbit, the venue will combine heritage character with contemporary design. Dark wood panelling, marble surfaces and warm lighting will create an elegant yet welcoming space, designed to complement the luxury accommodation above while attracting a wider audience of locals and visitors.
Positioned as a vibrant drink-and-dine destination, The Court will offer relaxed dining alongside a strong cocktail culture, providing a
setting for everything from casual gatherings to celebratory occasions.
For Aykley Group, The Sanctuary Knocker represents more than just a development, rather it signals a broader ambition to raise standards within the region’s hospitality sector.
“Durham is an incredible city with so much history and character,” says Mr Ali. “We saw an opportunity to introduce something new, something that complements that heritage but moves things forward in terms of design, quality and experience.”
With its combination of storytelling, design and service, The Sanctuary Knocker stands apart from traditional accommodation. It’s not simply a place to stay, but a carefully curated environment that invites guests to pause, indulge and retreat into an atmosphere of serene opulence.
