Oulton Hall in Yorkshire: Spa review

Just 15 minutes’ drive from Leeds city centre, a sweeping driveway leads up to one of the grandest hotels in Yorkshire. Oulton Hall is an 18^th century former family mansion offering a luxurious and tranquil getaway from urban life.

Set alongside an extensive golf course and beautifully landscaped gardens, the hotel features a state-of-the-art interior filled with intricate chandeliers and astonishing original portraits of those who once lived there. Enveloped in a warm, homely atmosphere, guests have the opportunity to take afternoon tea in the drawing room, enjoy a glass of champagne on the terrace, or relax in the spa.

We stayed in one of the 70 newly refurbished bedrooms. Complete with the usual mod-cons, these rooms have easy access to reception, restaurants, and spa and leisure facilities. Upon arrival, we took time to explore this impressive building before heading to the treatment rooms.

The spa offers an extensive range of back, neck and shoulder massages, facials and beauty treatments, including manicures and waxing. Open from 6:30am, the pool is great for an early morning swim, while the sauna and steam rooms offer a place to unwind. Elsewhere, the Hydro Pool is certain to keep you alert with its powerful massaging jets.

Following a conversation with one of the therapists, we opted for the Deep Muscle Massage, which is directed at specific areas of concern. We were able to choose the oil used during treatment, selecting from a variety of scents aimed to energise, soothe, restore or rejuvenate – the choice was tough when each smelt divine! Although we would have benefited from a firmer massage to fully relieve our aching backs, the treatment was relaxing and prepared us for the quiet evening ahead.

 

Located in the heart of the hotel, Calverley Grill offers a mouth-watering menu of classic British food with a local contemporary twist. Open to guests and the public, dishes include poached sea trout, roast lamb rump and wild mushroom pithivier. The service here was highly impressive; staff were knowledgeable and attentive. For a more informal gathering, the hotel’s second eatery, Claret Jug, is perfect for light refreshments.

The following morning, we returned to the main restaurant to enjoy a hearty buffet-style breakfast. With plenty of choice – both continental and cooked – we were able to line our stomachs sufficiently for a late morning stroll. The exterior not only offers attractive grounds to wander in, but also scenic views for miles, ensuring plenty of photographic opportunities. We spent some time on the terrace soaking in the surroundings, with a glass of wine in hand and sweet bird song filling the air. Oulton Hall certainly seemed a lifetime away from the metropolis.

Rebekah Absalom
Photos: Rebekah Absalom

Prices are from £223 based on two people sharing with dinner and breakfast. To book a stay at Oulton Hall call 08450172454 or visit here.