Seaham Hall Serenity Spa Experience
24th January 2014
Many would have thought that choosing the perfect wedding venue would be easy for me given that I regularly visit many of the leading hotels in the UK. But maybe that was part of the problem; too much choice! Yorkshire or Northumberland? Contemporary vs. classic? Quirky or chic? It was an unbelievably hard decision.
My minimoon, however, was not so hard at all. Ideally, I knew I would like to be located not too far from Northumberland. I also knew that I wanted the ultimate in relaxation, which, of course, includes a great spa. I love good food and interesting surroundings but most of all…pure indulgence! All fingers pointed to Seaham Hall in County Durham.
Feeling very tired and almost deflated that the wedding was all over, our arrival at Seaham Hall hotel soon lifted the mood! The entrance was opulent and grand. Check in was stress-free. We were greeted by Catherine, who showed us around and ensured that we knew where everything was. We were eager to get to the Serenity Spa!
The beautifully lit, underground walkway from the hotel to the Serenity Spa really gets you in the mood for some pampering, and there is no need to get soggy slippers by having to walk outside on a wet day! We were welcomed by an affable therapist, who introduced us to the facilities in the Serenity Spa. There is distinct Thai theme throughout, and you will find everything that you could ever dream of from a spa, including hot tubs (my favourite), a black granite steam room, a sauna, Hammam and so much more. The Spa is on two levels and is strewn with relaxation beds, just in case you fancy a little snooze.
You will also find the oh-so cool Ozone Restaurant. Again, so relaxed that you can actually stay there in your robes until 9pm! In Ozone you can taste some interesting Asian delights, such as steamed bream fillet with garlic and aromatic spices, or sip on refreshing cocktails and interesting tea blends.
Our deep tissue massages were next on the menu. This is just what we needed after the build-up and excitement of our wedding. We were guided to the couple’s treatment room, which was full of wonderful aromas. The pressure of the massage was perfect for both of us and left us feeling tranquil.
Pre-dinner drinks in Byrons Bar was an urbane affair. The bar is seriously chic with rich colours, crushed velvets, chandeliers and a stunning oak bar. After a very well put together Hendrick’s Gin and cucumber tonic, we moved on to Blunos Sea Grill. A fine menu of locally caught fish and seafood was just perfect for me, whilst the meat selection left my husband almost spoilt for choice. The service was impeccable, the wine flowed and the food was heavenly.
We slept very well in our Junior Suite, which was especially spacious with a huge lounge area and a superb bathroom. In the morning we could not wait to get back to the spa. This time we enjoyed a sauna and a swim in the large pool, which is complete with massage stations, followed by a soak in the hot tub, and a cool down with the invigorating ice fountain. You really could spend hours in the Serenity Spa at Seaham Hall.
Feeling refreshed and energised, we decided to take a stroll into Seaham, which takes approximately 20 minutes along the coastal path. Seaham is a small but charming seaside town with shops and some lovely cafés.
For us, Seaham Hall was quite honestly the perfect escape. It is also now in my list of favourite spas and I would highly recommend it for anybody in need of some TLC.