Veering away from the busy city buzz, we headed into the beautiful Northumberland countryside to Slaley Hall Hotel; a scenic drive which suitably began our luxury weekend un-wind. Situated close to Corbridge and Hexham, you get a real feel for the picturesque surroundings as you take the twists and turns of the country roads towards Slaley.
As we pulled into the grand and imposing grounds of Slaley Hall Hotel, I was immediately struck by the sumptuous sprays of lavender Hydrangeas. Set in 1,000 acres of Northumberland moorland, these vast and vibrant grounds take you up to the elegant Edwardian mansion which is Slaley Hall Hotel. An international golf hotel, the immaculate course provides an apt backdrop for the stylish and majestic hotel building. A valet service is available right outside reception, or you can head straight to the capacious car park.
Met with a warm welcome, luggage was taken and we began our exploration. Being shown around the hotel, we stepped into The Claret Jug; a bar and deluxe bistro with a well chosen wine list, immediately earmarked for a pre-dinner Champagne cocktail later on. Also passing a pretty nifty games room for the kids, I made a mental note to return with little ones who would love the cushion and sofa clad room, fully equipped with consoles, cards and a mini football table.
Shown to our room overlooking the impressive golf course, we were welcomed with a luxury hamper of local Northumbrian treats. From chutney to fudge, it gave us a real taste for the area, and essential fuel for my other half to hit the Driving Range and post-golf 19th Bar.
An afternoon swim was next stop; that, and a decent dose of poolside lounging amongst the Mediterranean style tiles and rock trimmed water. After soaking up the sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi, guests can head to the juice bar for hydration by the pool. Or, take a splash from the ever popular slide right back into the water.
Fully relaxed and ready for an evening of fine food, our table was booked to dine in Duke’s Grill. An Edwardian Dining Room, both the food and the décor were exquisite. Tucking into the oysters, steak and delicious duck fat chips, it struck me how romantic a place it would be to propose. It could’ve been the Fleurie red wine or the child-free break, but within half an hour of this thought someone else obviously had the same idea, and the gentleman on the table next to us got down on one knee. Well, after that it would’ve been rude not to toast them with a whisky from the adjacent wood-panelled haven of The Whisky Snug. Walls lined with cabinets, our very knowledgeable and helpful waitress got the keys and talked us through all the malts on offer. Settling down on the sofa with an Isle of Jura whisky, I took in the tweed and tartan of the room before marvelling at the antler light fitting.
Next morning we looked out onto the golf course enjoying breakfast in Hadrian’s Brasserie, a spread including Eggs Benedict, fresh fruit and cereals. After relaxing on the patio outside The Claret Jug with Sunday papers, I headed down to the Spa while my husband had a go on the golf course.
Checking into the spa, I was asked to wait in The Relaxation Room. A tranquil sanctuary of plush carpets and glossy magazines, this low-lit luxury was to begin my spa experience. An attentive therapist then came to meet me and I was taken to the treatment room. Dual treatment rooms are also available, which would be perfect for a couple’s retreat or girly holiday. I received the ESPA Skin Radiance Facial, a 55 minute treatment consisting of a skin consultation, head and shoulder massage and the facial itself. It was pure bliss, and despite the sleeplessness of my toddler, I’m still seeing the benefits- a perfect end to a perfect break.
Need To Know:
Rooms and suites: 142
Rates: We enjoyed the ‘Stay With Me’ break, starting from £99pp including DBB and a 55-minute treatment. (Full details can be found here: www.qhotels.co.uk)
Check-In Time: 3pm
Checkout Time: 11am
Facilities: Enjoy eating and drinking in style with The Claret Jug, Duke’s Grill, 19th Bar, Hadrian’s Brasserie and The Whisky Snug. Relax by the pool, take a treatment in the spa or go for a workout in the fitness room. Sample the internationally renowned golf course or choose from the list of adventure activities available, such as kayaking and quad-biking. There are also luxury lodges on site, for groups needing a little more room or their own space.
How to get there: For guests arriving by car, Slaley Hall is simple to find from the A1. If you’re coming from the South, take the A68 and follow signs for Slaley. Or from the North, take the A69 towards Corbridge before following the A68 South and using the signs. Alternatively, by rail, Slaley is 30 miles from Newcastle central station. Newcastle Airport is 28 miles away.
Slaley Hall, Slaley, Hexham, Northumberland. NE47 0BX.
Telephone: 0871 222 4688
Email: [email protected]