Perched above the dramatic Durham coastline, Seaham Hall blends heritage charm with modern hedonism in a way that feels both indulgent and effortlessly cool. It’s the sort of place seasoned travellers mention with a knowing smile because once you’ve stayed, you understand.
Arrival sets the tone. The tree-lined driveway builds a sense of anticipation before the creamy façade of Seaham Hall appears, serene and self-assured against the backdrop of sea and sky. You also can’t miss the striking vortex water feature, which to me is almost science fiction like as it whirls water and changes levels (and at night colours!), which greets all guests at the entrance.
Inside, the interiors surprise as the hotel has a seductive blend of bold colour, velvet textures, sculptural lighting and playful art. As the fireplace burns, check in with the team is like being welcomed by your family. I felt as if I had known them for years!
Suites are spacious sanctuaries, with each one designed to make you exhale the moment you step inside. Mine oozed pure glamour! Staying in the beautifully designed Millbanke Suite, I was in awe at the clash of colours and textures not to mention the sheer size of the room. The bathroom was large enough to host its own spa day! The suite is named after Sir Ralph Millbanke who built Seaham Hall back in the 1790s and it helps to reflect the halls rich legacy.
Other suites offer private hot tubs or terraces with sea views, the little luxuries that encourage morning coffee rituals and late-night stargazing. On the grounds, there is also a selection of coastal lodges which are set up for self-catering but you can still have access to the Serenity Spa during your stay. This is great for families as it gives you just a bit more space and privacy but still be part of the hotel and all the luxuries it has to offer.
The spa is the soul of Seaham Hall. Reached through a long, winding corridor that changes colour as you follow, the spa is an expansive world of whispered relaxation which invites you to drift unhurriedly between the pools and thermal spaces. The 20M indoor pool is surrounded by ample seating as well as the garden areas or roof terrace to relax in and really find your zen. Of course, you can treat yourself to a massage or other treatments which are available to be booked at the hotel or prior to your visit.
I made sure to make time to wander around the gardens and grounds which are nicely paved and feature some cute outdoor seating spaces so you can sit and take it all in. Being here in the autumn, the trees are all different shades of green, orange and red making it feel cosy and perfectly seasonal. Location wise, the hotel is so close to Seaham Hall and Seaham beach which both have some great viewpoints and stunning coast you can meander along whatever the weather.
But the true gravitational for me is the dining experience here. Breakfast, lunch or dinner, the 5 star quality shines through. The signature restaurant is intimate with olive trees and fairy lights plus gorgeous chandeliers, and the dishes are rooted in the region’s produce. I was blown away by the delicate details of each dish!
When there are oysters on any menu, I’m ordering a few. I kicked off the meal with possibly the best oysters I’ve had all year(!), which came dressed in cucumber and horseradish with dill. Big statement I know but after this, I just knew I was in for a good meal.
I ordered the XL Grilled Garlic and Chilli Prawns next which did not disappoint and I licked the plate clean (literally), followed by the more seasonal Roast Salt Aged Duck with grilled radicchio and glazed beetroot cherry mustard condiment. The food here is like a love letter to the Northeast!
I didn’t skip dessert and in true staycation style, I had this delivered to my suite with the rest of by bottle of wine. My cheese plate was grazed on from the comfy sofa whilst watching the tv (which had a Chromecast so you can watch all the apps!).
Breakfast is also a big deal. No buffet or cold food here! Juices, teas and coffee are poured straight away and topped up throughout your brekkie without having to ask, and it doesn’t go cold whilst you toast your own bread. The breakfast menu is full of great classics with everything made to order. My eggs were beyond perfect!
Overall what sets Seaham Hall apart is its sense of place. The grounds roll gently toward the edge of the sea and the coastline becomes part of the experience. In an era of performative luxury, Seaham Hall stands out for its authenticity.
It offers escapism without excess, warmth without saccharine service, indulgence without noise. It’s not just a hotel; I would describe it as a retreat for people who understand that the most memorable luxury is the one that feels personal.
Review and Images by Zoe Laing @_zozogram_
Feature image supplied
