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The Victorian spa town of Harrogate is without doubt one of the finest places in the country, not only because it is surrounded by so many attractions and areas of outstanding natural beauty but it is also a thriving town full of bars, restaurants (including the prestigious Betty’s Tea Rooms) and modern boutique shops. The perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life or indeed simply a pleasant change of scenery.
It seems only fitting, therefore, to stay in a hotel that reflects both the history and the modernity of its natural habitat. Enter The Balmoral Hotel. Much like Harrogate itself, The Balmoral Hotel is a definitive example of traditional England at its best. But at the same time, it seamlessly incorporates all those modern touches that make life comfortable.
Situated on a leafy street approximately ten minutes walk form the centre of Harrogate, the Hotel sets a very impressive 100 year-old York stone theme to the picture. Inside, it takes on a very different personality.
Recently refurbished the rooms, which range from standard suites and culminate in The Windsor Suite, reflect a time of luxurious indulgence in sumptuous reds, whites and blacks with a rich mix of textiles to make you tingle. The design is heavily French with armoires and handmade quilts adorning the rooms yet the mod-cons are there, perfectly at home with their vintage relations.
Key architectural features, such as the fireplace, skirting and polished floorboards, have been kept and statement wallpaper, Venetian mirrors, Louis V chairs and Chesterfield sofas complete the look conceived by Gabriel Murray of Studio 48.
We stayed in the superior room (£120 per night, room only) looking out across the gardens through the stunning façade. Superior rooms come complete with four poster beds and ours had a stunning and really quite seductive, black-tiled ensuite bathroom with roll top bath and was garnished with brightly packaged ETRO toiletries from Milan.
For special occasions, or for those who simply think that life’s to short, The Windsor Suite (£200 per night, room only) is the pinnacle of this contemporary regal theme with an impressively grand lounge featuring an open fire, copious classic furniture, plasma screen and large sofas to sink into.
The opulent bedroom is dominated by an enormous bed, which combines heavy drapes, antique furniture and chandeliers to create an unrivalled haven form your troubles. To use the modern parlance: it’s the daddy. Somewhere any well-heeled girl would love to be whisked away to.
Guests are also treated to one of Harrogate’s latest relaxed dining experiences. The Harrogate Grille comes form the same people who brought us the innovative Room restaurants and the menu offers something for everyone from seriously good burgers to classic coq au vin.
Whilst a friendly hustle and bustle welcomes you to the bar and restaurant there are romantic corners if you really want to cherish the time away with someone special.
In the spirit if Valentine’s day, there is a romantic break special offer this February: Superior room stay, with a bottle of champagne and a beautiful bouquet of flowers on arrival. Breakfast is included choose from French toast with blue berries a=/7 maple syrup, eggs Benedict or the ‘Grille’ Fry-up to mention but a few. Price £210.
The Balmoral Hotel,
Franklin Mount, Harrogate
01423 508208
www.balmoralhotel.co.uk
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