Fancy a bit of pampering yourself without having to travel too far from home?
You're in luck, as two County Durham hotels have been named among the best spa breaks in the UK.
In a list on Guardian Travel, the Garage Spa at the Morritt in Greta Bridge near Barnard Castle, was named among 40 selected from all over the UK as a 'great value break.' The Morritt and its Garage Spa, which has twice been the winner of the Good Spa Guide's best boutique spa, is a former stopping station for travellers making their way between London and Carlisle.
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Surrounded by rolling fields and a popular place for a relaxing escape on the border of Yorkshire and the Durham Dales, it has a range of facilities including whispering and relaxation lounges, indoor and outdoor hot tubs, and a 'car wash' - which offers different shower sensations. The hotel also has a two AA rosettes, so you're in safe hands when it comes to food too.
The other hotel to get the nod was Seaham Hall, with its Serenity Spa named as one of the best holistic retreats. It's a busy time for the five star hotel, which has recently unveiled its new Bungalow suites overlooking the Durham Heritage Coast, while it also took the Gold for the Best Small Hotel at the North East Tourism Awards.
Its spa draws inspiration from Far Eastern healing and wellness rituals, and has a 20-metre pool, hammam with snail showers and jacuzzi, and an Elephant Shanti lounge area. There's also a Zen Garden for those who prefer to relax outdoors and enjoy the views.
To read the Guardian's full article on the best spa breaks in the UK, click here.
