The story behind our country house on the coast
In our own words
Nestled amidst the stunning coastal landscape, our hotel boasts a selection of uniquely appointed bedrooms, each offering a distinct character, contemporary amenities, and breathtaking vistas of the tranquil shores. We're also the proud home of the renowned Serenity Spa, an oasis of rejuvenation inspired by the soothing traditions of the Far East.
Home to delicious dishes
And then there are our two fabulous restaurants. In The Dining Room, under the culinary expertise of Chef Damian Broom, you'll find a menu inspired by the untamed beauty of the North Sea and the lush Durham countryside. At Ozone, our panoramic Asian restaurant, you can embark on a culinary journey that transports your taste buds to the vibrant flavours of the Far East, offering a tantalising array of warming curries, vibrant stir-fries, and alluring tapas selections - all set against a captivating coastal backdrop.
We're proud members
We're proud to be a member of PoB Hotels, a hand-picked collection of independent hotels in some of the most beautiful locations around the British Isles. Each has its own distinctive style and character, and all are run by people with a passion for great hospitality. To find out more about PoB Hotels click the button below.
Our brand ambassador
International cricketer, Ben Stokes, has played for Durham since 2009 and called the area his home for the past 11 years. Living just 10 minutes away, he has become a regular visitor of Serenity Spa with his family, and over the years has also enjoyed several stays at the hotel. Ben is a celebrated local star here in Durham and we're proud that he is the face of Seaham Hall and our Residences.
Our history
1791 | Seaham Hall was built
Seaham Hall was built by Ralph and Judith Milbanke on the site of Seaham House.
1814 | Lord Byron
Lord Byron visited Seaham Hall in 1814. A year later, his daughter the Hon Augusta Ada Byron, later Countess of Lovelace, and commonly known as Ada Lovelace was born.
1821 | The Marquess of Londonderry
In 1821, due to health and financial issues, Sir Ralph Milbanke sold Seaham Hall estate to soldier, politician and Irish-born nobleman Charles Vane, Baron Stewart for £63,000.
1914 | World War One
At the outbreak of the 1914 Great War, the house was loaned to the British Army to be used as a military hospital. Seaham Hall was returned to the Londonderry family in 1919.
1922 | Spey Whisky & U.S. Prohibition
In 1922, the family auctioned off the contents of Seaham Hall and left the property uninhabited. It then became the secret bottling and distribution centre for Scotch whisky.
1927 | Seaham Hall in public hands
The house was gifted to Durham County Council who spent £20,000 converting it into a sanitorium for tuberculosis patients. A children's orthopaedic ward was added in 1929.
1952 | The first hospital radio
Reverend Paul Wigfield borrowed records to play over internal headphones and called it "Radio Therapy" instead of Radio Luxembourg - this became the first hospital radio.
1985 | Another change in business
After laying empty for six years, the house was bought by Mr Kusia Jalal, who converted it into a hotel. In 1985, the lovingly restored house welcomed its first guests.
1991 | On the market
By 1991, the hotel was on the market again. Tom Maxfield left his role as a main board director at Sage in 1997 after his wife's death and bought the property in 2001.
2008 | Seaham Hall is sold
Tom sold the hotel to Von Essen Hotels who operated 27 luxury hotels. The group had a bad reputation and several hotels were axed from The Good Hotel Guide.
2012 | The finest hotel in the North East
The hotel was acquired by an independent hospitality group committed to ensuring Seaham Hall's future as the finest five-star hotel in the North East.
Need a little more information?
Get in touch with our team to find out more about our spa resort on the Durham coast, or make an enquiry ahead of your visit.
