Looking for an unforgettable stay at an award winning coastal hotel? I may have found the perfect place. Less than thirty minutes from Durham and Newcastle is Seaham Hall. A luxury five-star resort in a striking location high above the cliffs on Durham’s Heritage Coast. Below the cliffs is a beautiful pebbled beach that brings in sea glass treasures with each tide from the old bottle works that were there over 100 years ago.
We arrived straight from work, exhausted and desperate for rest and recuperation. The staff couldn’t have been more helpful as they showed us to our room, a stunning executive suite. We were given an introduction to the facilities, how everything worked and then left to make the most of our luxurious suite at the beautiful Seaham Hall Hotel.
Our room was packed full of little luxuries including tea, coffee pods for the coffee machine, fresh milk, snacks, a mini bar and very welcomed cool drinks. The bathroom was stocked with spa toiletries and even our own little rubber duck!
Our stylish suite had a double aspect which was heavenly, on one side we were treated to sea views and on the other, a panoramic view across the flower filled gardens with chirping birds and swaying wildflower meadows.
The large living area had a softer than soft L-shaped velvet sofa which we sank into and enjoyed a few treats from the mini bar, such a haven of relaxation after a busy day. We could have happily stayed there all night, but dinner beckoned.
Our bedroom had a super king sized bed with the most comfortable mattress I think I’ve ever slept on. We felt enveloped in the softest cloud and I was asleep as soon as my head hit the pillow. The décor was warm and vibrant with an amazing headboard full of butterflies and soft lighting on each side of the bed which created an ambient and romantic atmosphere.
A spacious bathroom with a walk in shower and a deep spa bath was complemented by a beautiful range of toiletries, all of which added to our luxurious experience.
In the morning we arrived for breakfast, fresh from the best night’s sleep we’d had in a while. The exquisite dining room, where breakfast was served, featured huge gold plated chandeliers which created the softest lighting. Tables were placed between lush olive trees, bringing a sense of calm and a nudge towards nature. The huge Georgian windows allowed the morning sun to fill the room creating dappled shadows through the olive trees and onto the walls.
On offer was an extensive menu of the most incredible freshly made dishes including pastries, porridge and mouthwateringly fresh fruit platters. Alongside this we were offered cooked options such as full English, pancakes, eggs benedict and smoked Craster kippers.
Everything was freshly cooked to order with unlimited tea, toast and coffee – we were well and truly set up for the day.
After breakfast we took a slow walk around the grounds of Seaham Hall with stunning wildflower meadows full to the brim with bees and butterflies, a beautiful pond with floating lily pads and dancing dragonflies–oh my goodness they were heavenly! The sun was shining and I felt well and truly restored in both body and mind.
We followed the meandering private path down to the beach, passing the brand new residences which can be bought or rented out as holiday lets. Such a dream, they are beautifully secluded and surrounded by wildflowers, a nod to the environmental awareness Seaham Hall Hotel.
I admire Seaham Hall being able to provide a luxurious resort yet maintaining a strong ethos towards the environment and sustainability. Details in the rooms such as digital newspapers, compostable coffee pods and refillable toiletries and an option to reuse towels and linen are all steps being taken to include guests in their sustainability efforts. They strive to minimize their environmental impact by sourcing local and sustainable products including using locally and seasonal ingredients, further reducing food miles and supporting local producers.
Seaham Hall Hotel, you were just what I needed–an escape from the ordinary to rest and recharge in luxury, surrounded by the sea and wildlife. A perfect getaway for friends, family occasions or couples
Seaham Hall Lord Byrons Walk, Seaham SR7 7AG
Review and images by Maria Davison @girlabout_thenortheast
Feature image supplied
