HOTEL of the week

RUDDING PARK HOTEL HARROGATE, YORKS

WHERE AND WHY The hotel is a stunning Georgian Grade I listed hall in 300 acres of parkland which has been sympathetically extended. The 90 bedrooms are funky boutique-style luxury with giant comfy beds, flat-screen TV, free wifi, hairdryer, ironing board, mini bar and tea and coffee making facilities. The two golf courses are a big draw, but the extensive rooftop spa is the main attraction with a hydrotherapy infinity pool, steam rooms, saunas and hot tub set among sunloungers and gardens. Downstairs there’s a large indoor pool, treatment rooms, and a high-tech relaxation area. The spa offer

mud rasul therapy, a skin cleansing treat for those who like to get down and dirty. There’s also a gym, library and cinema.

ON THE MENU As it was sunny, we ate breakfast al fresco at Horto in the spa wing where we tucked into avocado and poached egg on toast (£11), a Yorkshire fry-up (€15) and smoothies. Lunch there ranges from soup and sandwiches (€10) to spiced lamb meatballs (€23). Before dinner we sipped gin cocktails enjoying sunset views of the stunning grounds before eating in the hotel’s 2AA Rosette Clocktower Restaurant, where the delicious temptations include king scallops (€15) , venison (€28) or steaks (€30) or lighter options like salads and vegetarian dishes. Much of the produce

is homegrown or Yorkshire-sourced. Service, as in all of the hotel, is nicely attentive and friendly.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE Three miles away is the elegant spa town of Harrogate with smart streets full of independent shops and restaurants. For culture, there’s the Royal Pump Room Museum, the beautiful 19th century Valley Gardens and the Turkish Baths and Health Spa. And of course, don’t miss afternoon tea at the famous Bettys.

WAKEUP CALL A one-night spa break starts from €212pp on half-board, including one 50-minute treatment from the Spa Day Treatment menu and access to the spa. ruddingpark.co.uk