By Holly Grahamslaw
To celebrate a belated Valentine’s Day, I recently visited Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa with my partner Josh for some much-needed rest and relaxation.
Situated on the outskirts of Durham City, Ramside Hall Hotel,Golf and Spa boasts 127 bedrooms and suites, two 18- hole Championship golf courses, an award-winning spa and three exquisite restaurants. Catering for various conferences, meetings and special occasions, the hotel is also one of the most sought after wedding venues in the region. On this occasion, we were delighted to stay in one of the hotel’s luxury treehouses, nestled within the hotel’s private grounds.
Ramside offers a range of treehouse accommodation, from 2-9 people, making them ideal for couple getaways, as well as family gatherings or even intimate weddings.There are large three bedroom ones as well as the one bedroom A frame variety which we stayed in. The treehouses offer private shuttle access to the hotel’s amenities, making you really feel like royalty during your stay. All treehouses also benefit from large floor-to-ceiling windows, showcasing beautiful, panoramic views of the adjacent fairway and green.
Our two-storey treehouse, the Magpie, provided luxury and sophistication, with flashes of turquoise and gold adding to the venue’s lavishness. The downstairs was equipped with a comfortable lounge and kitchenette, whilst a spiral staircase led to a master bedroom and ensuite, fitted with a flat-screen TV, large bed, free-standing copper bath and a walk-in rainfall shower. The stunning accommodation also included a decked outdoor area, complete with a private hot tub and sauna. What a treat!
Eager to relax and unwind, we decided to spend the afternoon at the spa. Ramside is home to one of the best luxury spas in the region , boasting a state-of-the-art gym, deluxe thermal suite and five pools, including an outdoor infinity pool. Guests can also enjoy a plethora of beauty treatments from the venue’s therapeutic treatment rooms. This all sounded delightful and was coupled with excellent service, with staff on hand to attend to our needs.
After a thoroughly pleasant afternoon, we were in need of some refreshments. Ramside provides a range of dining options, including the Rib Room, Pemberton’s Carvery and the Clubhouse. On this occasion, we were delighted to try the hotel’s Pan-Asian Fusion restaurant, which prides itself on using locally sourced produce to bring innovative and fresh flavours. The restaurant offers an extensive main and vegan menu, as well as Asian afternoon tea and a unique make your own bento box option.
To start, Josh tasted the delicious soft shell crab, whilst I enjoyed the crispy Thai fishcakes, served with a side salad and zingy sweet chili sauce. Having worked up an appetite, we tucked in with gusto and were impressed by the exquisite flavours on offer.
Following up, Josh devoured the sticky Char-Sui pork, served with boiled egg, pak choi and broccoli on a bed of jasmine rice, whilst I savoured the tasty Green Chicken Thai curry. The dishes offered both quantity and quality and paired nicely with a delicious bottle of pinot from the restaurant’s extensive wine list.
Feeling replete, we sidestepped desserts in favour of coffees and liqueurs, before returning to the Magpie for a long and restful night’s sleep.
The next morning, we were delighted to visit Pemberton’s Carvery for a spot of breakfast. Much to our delight, the “help yourself” buffet was extensive, with a range of cooked items, continental favourites and various juices and hot drinks on offer. The breakfast proved a fitting end to a relaxing and all too brief a stay.
All in all, Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa provided a welcome escape from daily life. If you are looking to treat a special someone, the treehouses provide the cut above in luxury accommodation, whilst the hotel’s excellent service, lavish spa and exquisite food really adds to the premium experience on offer. We can’t wait to return.