With its Alice in Wonderland theme, The Tempus is ‘more prosecco than champagne’ – making it a curious addition to Charlton Hall Estate
“I knew who I was this morning, but I’ve changed a few times since then,” goes the famous phrase from Lewis Carroll. It could almost be a description of today’s country estates, which continue to lurch between existential crises, struggling to reinvent themselves. Diversifying income by setting up glamping pods has been a trend of late, as have hosting food festivals, grouse shoots for the global elite and monstrous barn weddings, complete with hog roasts and fairy lights. But these all seem low-risk – even fitting – strategies for Britain’s great country piles. By contrast, Charlton Hall Estate’s addition of a bonkers sister property for overnight stays year-round seems at first like something of a gamble, albeit an impressive one.
In a way, the leap isn’t surprising. Owned in the 18th century by Robert Cay, a Judge Admiral for Scotland, Charlton Hall passed through various wealthy families of the law before being snapped up and refashioned by businessman Richard Shell into a wedding venue for the Soho House set, all peony-pink carpets and House of Hackney wallpaper. Despite this evolution, the creation of the Tempus – a novelty boutique hotel – as its cheeky alter ego is really saying something.
Of course, one can see the potential for such an enterprise in a location like this. Northumberland – with its magnificent beaches, imposing castles and pretty villages – is an irresistible weekend break destination. It is only a hop and a skip from Newcastle, whose young professionals are hungry for Instagramable experiences.
And the Tempus does not disappoint in being completely crackers. The theme is Alice in Wonderland: the bar booths are lined with playing card-print wallpaper, while glitter balls and clashing geometric patterns are a psychedelic trip for the senses. I loved the restaurant, a breezy and fun space with North African-print banquets, forest-scene wallpaper and tea served in pink Le Creuset pots.