Seaham Hall and Serenity Spa

Wrapped in 37 acres of parkland and offering just 22 suites, the bold contemporary style of Seaham Hall is an unexpected find on the County Durham coast. A startlingly white Georgian mansion - wedding venue of poet Lord Byron, and the home of the third Marquess of Londonderry - its handsome proportions have been given a sparkling makeover; think big velvet sofas, rich purples, modern art and dramatic chandeliers. The bedrooms - all suites - are generous to a fault with soft carpets, lobby areas, big bathrooms and fresh flowers. Glamorous but not fussy, they are rich with feature wallpapers, modern art and cool country colours. Some have private hot tubs. The focus throughout the hotel is on pampering and relaxation from the 44,000 square-foot Asian-inspired spa (17 treatment rooms, organic pool, outdoor hot tubs) to the purple pool table in the sports lounge. Eating options range from the glamorous, fine-dining Byron's restaurant (expect inventive dishes such as halibut with seaweed tapenade or milk jam mousse with puffed rice) with a 400-plus wine list, to the more relaxed Thai-inspired Ozone with its open kitchen. There's little need to leave the hotel, though, should you choose to, there are blustery beaches and coastal walks within 10 minutes' stroll while Durham City is a half-hour drive. A luxurious oasis where indulgence is encouraged.