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- 27th Jun 2025
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Saltmoore: a romantic coastal spa retreat we highly recommend – here’s why
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Looking for a romantic weekend that ticks all the boxes – spa, coast, fine food and a real sense of escape? We bring you Saltmoore.
You’ll find this new wellness retreat in North Yorkshire’s tucked just outside Whitby in the pretty village of Sandsend.
It’s where the dramatic coastline meets rolling moorland, and with 80 acres of woodland, lakes and landscaped gardens, Saltmoore isn’t just another luxury spa hotel. It’s a real sanctuary – the place you instantly feel relaxed from the moment you arrive.
This is the perfect escape to slow down, breathe and spend some quality time with your partner. My husband and I were invited down, and here’s why we’ll definitely be returning…
HLN TOP TIP: Saltmoore is dog-friendly, so your four-legged family members don’t have to miss out.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
After a straightforward, just under two-hour drive from Newcastle, we descended into Sandsend and straight away felt like we’d stepped into a postcard. Think sea views, winding lanes and coastal calm.
After already staying at Saltmoore a few years ago when it was then Raithwaite Sandsend, I was instantly blown away by its transformation.
Check-in at Saltmoore House, the heart of the estate, was effortless. A lovely warm Yorkshire welcome (and a fruity iced tea) greeted us and we were shown to our room with dinner and spa details clearly laid out.
Already impressed, we had a few welcome treats waiting for us: freshly baked brownies, homemade cordial and a handwritten note from the team. This personal and thoughtful touch instantly made us feel at home.
INSIDE OUR MASTER ROOM
We stayed in one of the Master Rooms and from the minute we entered our room we got that ‘wow factor’. There was a four-poster emperor bed, freestanding tub, rainfall shower, his-and-hers sinks and stunning woodland views.
The whole vibe was calm and stylish – soft colours, plush textures and subtle hints to Yorkshire’s Victorian heritage. Of course, we had to test the inviting bed; sinking into the Egyptian cotton bedding was pure heaven, perfect after a day of exploring. The whole room brought the spa experience away from the spa, thanks to the local and luxurious Wildsmith skincare and beauty products provided.
THE SPA: THE SANCTUARY BY NAME AND NATURE
We’d already heard great things about Saltmoore’s Sanctuary Spa – and it still exceeded our expectations.
Big glass windows overlook the flower-filled gardens, the relaxation areas are peaceful and everything is designed to help you properly switch off. One huge plus? You can reserve loungers. No awkward hovering needed.
We loved the unisex changing rooms, which have individual private pods – each with a rainfall shower, toilet and changing space. And because they’re unisex, you’re not waiting around for each other (well, my husband wasn’t waiting for me, for once). Plus, ladies, there’s a range of GHD hair stylers provided, no walking the corridors with frizzy hair or looking like a drowned rat!
Facilities-wise, they’ve got everything you need and more. From a hot tub overlooking a waterfall, a Himalayan salt sauna, a steam room, a cryo chamber and an ice bath (my husband lasted five minutes, I gave up after two seconds – poor attempt). There’s a gym, yoga studio and wellness classes too if you’re feeling energetic.
Mid-spa, we took a break to soak up the sun on the terrace and treated ourselves to a cheeky glass of fizz and a cocktail at the Wellness Café. The bartender let us know my husband’s cocktail of choice wasn’t available, but then he offered to make his favourite cocktail that wasn’t on the menu. This was such a personal touch and showed that staff go above and beyond for you.
GETTING A TASTE OF NORTH YORKSHIRE
We had some pre-dinner drinks in the cosy bars (wood panelling, squashy armchairs and romantic mood lighting) before we headed into The Brasserie, Saltmoore’s main restaurant. Overseen by the celebrity chef Tommy Banks, Head Chef, Adam Maddock and their team, the menu is proudly Yorkshire but with a modern twist.
Starters? Garlic chilli prawns and satay pork belly – both packed with flavour. Mains were equally dreamy. There’s a sharing Chateaubriand we were tempted by, but we wanted to try different dishes. I had a poached cod chowder with mussels and wild garlic, and my husband went for the lamb rump with fondant potato and asparagus. We couldn’t resist the cheesy creamed leeks and pork-fat fries for sides. And dessert? Sticky toffee pudding, with two spoons, of course. Gooey, golden and gone in about three minutes.
Everything was beautifully presented, down to the Saltmoore branding on the plates. Serving luxurious but welcoming vibes. And Calluna, Saltmoore’s new fine dining restaurant, is set to open very soon – we’re so excited to try.
MORNING SPA BLISS AND COASTAL WANDERS
After a dreamy night’s sleep (the best night’s sleep we had in a while), we couldn’t resist one last hot tub dip before breakfast.
Before leaving, we wandered the grounds, 80 acres of peaceful trails, secret gardens and wildlife-rich lakes. We then walked just 10 minutes to Sandsend beach and wandered around beautiful Sandsend village. Whitby is also a short drive if you fancy browsing jewellery shops, climbing up to the Abbey or experiencing Dracula-themed activities.
Saltmoore, Sandsend Road, Whitby YO21 3ST
Rachael Ellis
Creative Solutions Manager
After gaining a first in her BA Media and Journalism degree at Northumbria University, Rachael worked at Newcastle’s leading regional newspaper with her stories being picked up in national and global newspapers. She spent two very successful years giving a voice to those communities across the North East who otherwise…
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