Slaley Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort

Arrive frazzled, leave re energised thanks to all the fitness-fostering activities on offer at Slaley Hall. Its health club has recently received an upgrade, something that’s brought the gym to whole new levels of swishness. 

Working out feels less of a chore on the interactive gym equipment, and if you prefer your fitness with friends, there’s a whole timetable crammed with classes, from circuits to HIIT. Just remember to book in advance.

Not a gym lover? We hear you. Outdoor bootcamps make full use of Slaley’s stunning grounds, while sports lovers can have a kick-about on the football pitch or tee off at one of Slaley Hall’s Championship golf courses.

But for those who think fitness should feel fun and adventurous, head to Slaley’s on-site activity centre. Among the axe-throwing and quad-biking on offer you’ll find mindfulness outdoor packages, designed to get you out of your head and into your body. Perfect if there’s a group of you looking to reconnect or de-stress, you can get lost orienteering around the magnificent Slaley Hall Forest, try some beach ball volleyball or even take part in school sports day games.

Mind and body suitably restored, it’s time for a cocktail and at Slaley Hall, you’re really spoilt for choice when it comes to espresso-martini worthy locations. Glam up and head down to one of the oak-panelled dining rooms or lounges for that chic, vintage feel that’s reminiscent of a gentleman’s club. Fancy a nightcap before you float off to bed? There’s the swish Whisky Snug - it’s just as comfy as it sounds and has around 60 malts to sample.

Mr Kennedy's Brasserie

For a hearty breakfast, delicious dinner and an inviting atmosphere, visit Slaley Hall’s main restaurant, Mr Kennedy's Brasserie. It’s named after Thomas Kennedy, Slaley Hall’s former valet, chauffeur and butler whose memorabilia (including photographs and his uniforms) can even be viewed on request. 

History lesson over, it’s time for the main event. Must-try for meat lovers here is the 28-day aged Bavette steak. Cooked to perfection, this mouth-watering cut is also known as ‘butcher’s steak’ - it’s so good that butchers once kept it all to themselves.

The Claret Jug

Perfectly placed if you’re playing a round of golf, The Claret Jug offers pub classics and light bites served alongside spectacular views over the Championship course. The mood here is cool and casual, so sink into a sofa for mid-morning coffee and a read of the papers, or enjoy your favourite beer with a snack.

Tommy Craig's

Another option for a light bite is the buzzing Tommy Craig's, with its popular south-facing terrace. Meet for a glass of wine in the lounge, or sit up at the bar to watch the cocktail bar staff hard at work.

Slaley Hall does have a swimming pool and, at 20m long, it’s big enough for a proper swim. Forget standard rectangles, because this warm, indoor pool is far more interesting, with its quirky grotto style featuring rocks, waterfalls and even a slide to add a fun touch. Subtle lighting keeps the mood serene, and it’s surrounded by wicker loungers that are perfect for poolside reclining.

Slaley Hall has a large variety of rooms and suites, and all 142 of them are large. Even the entry-level Classic rooms could fit two double beds with ease. Classic rooms are perfect for short spa breaks , but special occasions call for an upgrade to an Edwardian suite. The only rooms available in the original mansion, they boast impressive features - think grand windows, striking wallpaper and separate lounge areas.  

No matter which type of room you choose, most come with fantastic views that will remind you that this really is a countryside retreat. Gaze out over the rolling greens of the golf course, or admire the stunning scenery of the Cheviots in the north and the North Pennines' moors to the south.

Slaley Hall’s check-in time is 3PM, but if you do arrive early the concierge can store your luggage. Check-out time is 11AM. Guests have access to the leisure club from 3pm on the day of arrival until 11am on the day of departure. Want to go for a swim after you check-out at 11am? Although it does get busy on weekends, it’s always worth asking if there’s any availability so speak to the leisure club on the day.

Yes. In fact, Slaley Hall is so family-friendly that kids aged under 16 can stay for free! Huge family rooms have cots for young ones and Z beds for slightly older ones, while adjoining rooms can give teens their own space. There are children’s menus perfect for picky eaters, while children aged five and under can eat for free. 

They won’t be bored either, thanks to Slaley’s on-site activity centre. It’s practically on the hotel’s doorstep and, with kids’ quad-biking, Segway safaris and archery on offer, there’s enough to keep even the most energetic families busy for the day. 

Got a junior spa-lover or mini fitness-fanatic in the family? Sadly, children under 16 years are not allowed in the gym or to use the Jacuzzi, sauna or steam room by the pool. But they can splash about to their hearts’ content during the generous, allocated children’s swimming times of 8am to 12pm and 3pm to 7pm when accompanied by an adult at a ratio of one to every two little ones. 

Looking for a dog-friendly hotel in Northumberland? Just when you thought Slaley Hall couldn’t get any better, you can even bring your pup with you on your spa break for free! Slaley Hall allows two small dogs, or one large one, to stay per room, completely free of charge. Your furry friend can chill out in the lounges, Tommy Craig’s Bar and the Claret Jug - and you can even leave well-behaved dogs behind in your room when you’re not there. Just be sure to mention you’re bringing your dog with you at time of booking.

Like to pamper and putt? You’ve come to the right place. Slaley Hall has not one but two Championship golf courses (the famously-challenging Hunting and the slightly more forgiving Priestman), making it one of the UK’s premium golf destinations. Hunting is often described as the Augusta of the North, with towering trees, replica holes and winding fairways providing uncanny echoes of the iconic American course.

Even if you’re not an avid golfer, this course offers horizon-stretching views that you just can’t miss out on. Slaley Hall also has a putting green, driving range and bunker practice area to perfect your swing.