24 hours at Grantley Hall

I’m just back from a night at Grantley Hall, Yorkshire’s poshest hotel as described by the recent Channel 5 documentary series. My husband and I were kicking off his ‘big’ birthday celebrations and we both agreed Grantley Hall delivered on all fronts. Set against the backdrop of the scenic Yorkshire Dales, Grantley Hall is a 47 room country house hotel with a variety of restaurants and an award winning spa. From check in to check out the service was excellent and every one of the team we came into contact with had a big smile and a helpful attitude. The 8+ age limit means it is more focused to adults and this coupled with an unstuffy atmosphere ensures a peaceful retreat.

Check in made me very happy, sitting in a comfy chair with a cup of Yorkshire tea is definitely the way to do it. We had booked an entry level room, aka a ‘cosy’ room and although unremarkable it was very comfortable with all the usual luxury amenities. I was more enamoured with the bathroom, truth be told, a double vanity is always a winner, a free standing bath and plenty of space just added to its appeal.

I was looking forward to checking out the spa and it didn’t disappoint. This is a space worth hanging out in. From the inside to the outside pool, thermal areas and relaxing beds, I can’t think of a more lovely way to spend an afternoon, on this occasion even the sun came out to play. Who says it’s grim up North?! Although not using the gym this time a little sneak peek uncovered an incredible offering, honestly better than any hotel gym I have encountered before.

A cocktail before dinner at Fletchers seemed to be the order of the day and the surrounding bar is a lovely place to unwind. The ambience at Fletchers is very relaxing and the food and service were good. We opted for the beef wellington which hit the spot beautifully. Breakfast the next morning is a la carte and taken in a lovely bright room where you can have as much or as little as you want. The rhubarb granola and yoghurt went down a treat.

After breakfast we put on our walking boots, grabbed the admission tickets courtesy of Grantley Hall and walked to Fountains Abbey which I can highly recommend.

All that was left was to pick up the car where we were handed water and chocolates for the journey (another lovely touch) and wave a very sad goodbye.

Highly recommended !