Nestled on the stunning Durham Heritage Coast, this five-star luxury spa hotel offers the ultimate retreat for those looking to unwind and rejuvenate. The North East provides a cooler alternative to its southerly counterparts, boasting breathtaking beaches, lush landscapes and easy accessibility from London, making it an ideal choice for a relaxing getaway in the UK heatwave.

Morning coffees on sun-drenched terraces, losing yourself in warm afternoons, and sipping aperitifs over watercolour sunsets, drinking in the vitamin D at a five-star luxury spa hotel is the epitome of summertime relaxation. However, if the UK heatwave gets too much, there’s something to be said about a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool, the first sip of a cold cocktail, and retreating to the cool comfort of an air-conditioned suite. 

At Seaham Hall, the combination of luxurious amenities and natural beauty ensures that you can cool down and indulge. With invigorating spa treatments, gardens made for strolling, and elegant afternoon teas, Seaham Hall provides an array of ways to beat the heat and unwind in style this summer.

If you’re looking to escape the UK heatwave while prioritising wellness, start your day with a cold water dip at Seaham Beach, or go for an invigorating swim around the picturesque Slope Beach at Seaham Harbour Marina. Cold water swimming provides a wealth of physical and mental benefits, including strengthening the immune system, enhancing mood, and improving circulation. The early morning hours paired with the North Sea waters provide a refreshing contrast to the warm summer air, helping you wake up and energise for the day ahead. Whether you prefer a leisurely dip or a more active swim, the tranquil waters and stunning coastal views create the perfect setting to begin your summer mornings on Durham’s Heritage Coast at Seaham Hall.

Back at the hotel, the outdoor pool offers a luxurious spot to cool down, surrounded by lush greenery and elegant loungers perfect for sunbathing in between swims. For a more invigorating experience, try the plunge pools, where the cool water will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalised. Enhance your relaxation in the Zen Garden, featuring relaxation beds and an infinity hydrotherapy pool with jets, providing a serene environment to unwind and cool off. For an added touch of refreshment, visit the ice fountain, perfect for cooling off on hot summer days. If you’re looking to indulge, opt for an evening spa package for some pampering under the stars. Choose Midweek Twilight Spa for a two-course dinner in Ozone and full access to the spa facilities, or add a glass of fizz or a treatment for the ultimate spa experience.

When the UK heatwave gets too intense, find solace in the leafy grounds and gardens of Seaham Hall. Wander through the shaded pathways, where the canopy of trees provides a natural respite from the heat. The meticulously maintained gardens, with their vibrant flowers and tranquil ponds, offer a peaceful retreat where you can relax with a book, meditate, or simply enjoy the outdoors without feeling the summer heat. Can’t get enough of the gardens? Choose the Garden Suite with Hot Tub. These stylish, spacious suites boast their own private gardens, allowing you to soak up the sea air from the comfort of your own hot tub. 

Indulge in a quintessentially British tradition with afternoon tea on the terrace at Seaham Hall. Overlooking the stunning gardens, the terrace provides a picturesque setting to enjoy a selection of finely crafted teas, delicate finger sandwiches and freshly baked scones. The gentle summer breeze and the elegant surroundings make for a perfect afternoon treat. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to relax and enjoy the finer things in life, afternoon tea on the terrace is a delightful way to cool down and savour the summer.

Harness the cooling benefits of seaweed with Seaham Hall’s signature spa treatments at the award-winning Serenity Spa. Promoting anti-ageing, hydration, and skin renewal, seaweed is the unsung hero of skincare and doubles as a cooling agent on hot summer days. Opt for the ishga Seaweed Wrap, which detoxifies and cools, providing a refreshing and revitalising sensation designed to eliminate toxins, boost energy, and improve skin tone. If a massage is more your style, try the ishga Invigorating Massage, which uses seaweed-infused oils to help to soothe, energise and cool tired muscles and remove tension, leaving you feeling rejuvenated. Complete your treatment journey with the ishga Regenerating Facial which uses the ishga organic seaweed product range to hydrate and refresh your skin, giving you a radiant summer glow. After your treatments, head to the Serenity Spa’s very own eucalyptus steam room, perfect for enjoying the therapeutic benefits of steam enhanced by the cooling properties of eucalyptus. 

As the day turns to night, enjoy the clear summer skies with a stargazing session at Seaham Hall. The relatively low light pollution in the area makes it an excellent spot for observing the night sky. Lay back on a comfortable lounger with a cosy blanket, and marvel at the stunning array of stars and constellations, or head further afield into the North Pennines for some of the darkest skies in the country, where you may even catch a glimpse of the Milky Way. Stargazing offers a peaceful and contemplative way to end your day, connecting you with the vastness of the universe and providing a serene way to cool off under the twinkling stars.

During your stay at Seaham Hall, consider opting for summer flavours to stay cool and refreshed. Light, refreshing ingredients such as mint, cucumber, and citrus can provide a pleasant cooling effect, ideal for hot days. Choose dishes like crisp summer salads brimming with seasonal vegetables, velvety chilled soups, and vibrant stir-fries, that offer both nourishment and a refreshing dining experience. For a Thai-inspired menu, head to Ozone, a pan-Asian restaurant situated within the Serenity Spa offering a vibrant array of dishes in a theatrical ambience. For fine dining and fresh regional produce, head to The Dining Room, one of the best restaurants on the Durham coast, to enjoy seasonal menus carefully curated by Executive Chef Damian Broom.

Retreat to the comfort of Seaham Hall’s air-conditioned suites after a day of summer activities in the UK heatwave. Each suite is designed with luxurious amenities and stylish decor, ensuring a restful and comfortable stay. The cool, climate-controlled environment provides a welcome escape from the heat, allowing you to relax and recharge in perfect comfort. Enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep or a leisurely afternoon nap, knowing that the sun-dappled surroundings are waiting outside for you when you’re ready to enjoy.