Taking Yorkshire’s Austen-esque, sense of romance to new heights, Grantley Hall is a combination of vast decadence, intimate romance and abundant history. It’s seductive, flirtatious, unapologetically lavish, and all the while surrounded by magical landscapes. Is this the ultimate in romantic luxury spa hotels? Why not decide for yourself?

One of the most magnificent 17th century luxury spa hotels

Meander through impressive grounds (more on that shortly) to reach this palatial country house hotel. Dating back to the 17th century, Grantley Hall has hosted kings and queens, politicians and celebrities. Dame Vera Lynn sang here, and LS Lowry painted it.

So you’re in good company when you stay here, and it will come as no surprise that rooms and suites are brimming with luxe details such as garden views and marble bathrooms, a subtle but chic colour palette and original period features whether you stay in a Deluxe room or the Royal Suite.

A magical country location

Vast grounds greet you on arrival, complete with a meandering river, manicured lawns and parkland to roam in. Stroll hand in hand with a partner or maybe if you’re feeling energetic go for a jog around the grounds to explore. The setting combined with the exceptional architecture and style makes for an idyllic combination of relaxation, sophistication and country charm.

A sensory feast in a choice of restaurants

Food at the hotel draws on Yorkshire’s abundant larder, turned into a feast for the senses that takes you on a culinary journey. Try celebrity chef Shaun Rankin’s fine dining offering, indulge in pan-Asian fare at Bar and Restaurant Eighty Eight, set against an outstanding backdrop of ornamental Japanese gardens.

There’s also casual but sophisticated cuisine at Fletchers Restaurant, and healthy dishes served in the dedicated Three Graces Spa Lounge. The experience at this king of luxury spa hotels wouldn’t be complete without an indulgent afternoon tea in the drawing room. Then evenings are for dancing the night away in Gatsby-style glamour at Valeria’s subterranean den.

A five star luxury spa

The magnificent Three Graces Spa and Elite Luxury Gym has been purposely created in the grounds of the hotel and as such as a complete destination in its own right. It caters to modern wellbeing with old school charm.

The 18-metre indoor swimming pool is surrounded by columns and neatly spaced loungers offering plenty of space. Take a dip in the indoor to outdoor hydrotherapy pool, enjoy the thermal experiences available in the sauna, steam room and snow room or work out in the gym. As mentioned, it has its own restaurant, so you can enjoy healthy, nutritious drinks and snacks throughout the day.

You can’t come to this spa without having a treatment. They use award-winning British spa brand ila as well as luxury Spanish skincare brand Natura Bissé, which embodies sophisticated elegance, efficiency and feminine intuition using avant-garde technologies alongside effective skincare products.

The verdict: well, is it the ultimate in romantic luxury spa hotels?

Quite possibly. The wonderful thing about Grantley Hall is that it’s the best of old and new. The historic architecture and tangible sense of history give it an intoxicating sense of romance, while the food, the service, the style and the spa treatments are everything a modern traveller could ask for and make you feel totally spoiled. This is a place that’s about sensory overload, but thanks to the beautiful natural surroundings, it’s peaceful and relaxing as well. It’s everything you need in terms of feel-good-factor, and deliciously seductive as well.

Top tips for a romantic luxury spa break

• Dress up, have dinner and flirt the night away in 1920s style at Valeria’s.
• Make sure you spend a full day in the spa including having lunch, and definitely have a spa treatment.
• Take a stroll around the grounds and house to really get a sense of its beauty and historic charm.