Destination UK: History meets luxury at Grantley Hall, Yorkshire

Heritage and high-end hospitality intertwine at this sprawling countryside escape.

Hidden in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, Grantley Hall is a discreet country retreat that marries history with modern-day luxury. This sprawling 17th-century mansion, originally built as a private residence, now stands as one of the UK’s most exclusive hotels, offering an exquisite experience that tempts travellers seeking heritage and high-end hospitality. The hotel’s carefully curated appeal and discreet luxury have made it a preferred destination for Middle Eastern visitors seeking the perfect blend of relaxation, privacy, and grandeur.

A Grand Welcome

The first thing that strikes you as you approach the property is its grandeur. Set within 30 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, the long, tree-lined drive leading up to the main house offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, where carpets of wildflowers meet babbling brooks, curvaceous bridges and wooden row boats. It’s the quintessentially British countryside experience and hints at the elegance that lies within.

As you step inside, you’re immediately immersed in the atmosphere of refined luxury. The hotel has been meticulously restored, with the original Georgian and Victorian features of the building beautifully preserved. Marble fireplaces, grand chandeliers, and intricate plasterwork create a sense of timeless elegance, while subtle modern touches bring the interiors into the 21st century. 

Check-in formalities take place in a grand foyer, where the warm welcome from the staff sets the tone for superb service that prevails throughout the stay. We sip on fresh pineapple lemonade and feel like we’ve stepped into Bridgeton before being escorted through the stately property.

Heritage and High-End Hospitality

Grantley Hall’s rich history is palpable. Built in the late 1600s by the Norton family, the hall has witnessed centuries of events and change, yet it has retained its stately charm and historical significance. The original building was expanded and altered throughout the years.

During World War II, the hall was used as a convalescent hospital for wounded soldiers, adding a poignant chapter to its past. The current owners, the Sykes family, acquired Grantley Hall and undertook an extensive four-year restoration to return the estate to its former glory. The result is a property that oozes historical charm while offering every conceivable modern comfort.

The Middle Eastern Appeal

Grantley Hall’s reputation for catering to Middle Eastern travellers has grown considerably in recent years, and for good reason. The hotel’s commitment to providing exceptional service and ensuring privacy is central to its appeal. The staff have specialised training in cultural sensitivities, ensuring that every guest feels accommodated.

The hotel’s 47 Exquisite rooms and suites are designed with luxury and discretion in mind. The hotel offers spacious accommodations, including opulent suites that can be booked as part of an entire wing for complete seclusion. Rooms are elegantly appointed, featuring plush furnishings and state-of-the-art technology.

Located in the newly refurbished Fountains Wing, our Superior Suite offers a luxurious and spacious retreat, starting with access from a tranquil rooftop atrium. The 78-square-metre suite boasts elegant dining and seating areas, perfect for relaxation or entertaining. The bathrooms are beautifully designed with Italian marble and feature indulgent free-standing baths, a private stream room, underfloor heating and a Japanese toilet, offering the ultimate in comfort and style.

With a bespoke Emperor-sized bed, pillow and robe menu, a complimentary mini-bar, and a television hidden behind a picture frame, it all feels like a British spy movie. If your stay truly enamours you, you can purchase the hotel’s signature fragrance.

Dining with Distinction

One of the highlights of Grantley Hall is the diverse dining experiences. The hotel is home to five restaurants and three bars, each offering something special. For those who appreciate fine dining, Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall is a must. The MICHELIN-starred restaurant showcases the best British produce, emphasising locally sourced ingredients and inventive techniques. The tasting menu (£160) offers an artful journey through contemporary British cuisine, where dishes such as Chicken Liver Parfait with Blackcurrant and Veal Sweetbread with Horseradish, surprise and delight.

For something more relaxed, Fletchers offers a brasserie-style menu perfect for casual yet refined dining. The restaurant serves up classic dishes with a modern twist, in a setting that reflects the historic charm of the hall. Here, we dine beneath a pagoda amidst pretty parasols and buckets stuffed with glistening bottles of Moët. The menu brings finesse to the countryside with its modern British menu featuring North Coast Halibut, Twice Baked Classic Cheese Soufflé and Whitby Dressed Crab. Plus, the creative cocktails draw inspiration from characters in literature such as the Mad Hatter and Sherlock Holmes. 

Health-conscious travellers, particularly those who prioritise wellness, will appreciate The Orchard, which serves up nutrient-packed dishes in a bright, conservatory-like setting.

Wellness and Relaxation

Grantley Hall boasts one of the finest wellness facilities in the UK. The Three Graces Spa is a sanctuary of tranquillity, offering an extensive range of treatments that blend ancient and contemporary techniques. The 18-metre indoor swimming pool, hydrotherapy pool, sauna, snow room and steam rooms provide ample opportunity for relaxation. Elsewhere, the Nordic garden features ice baths and an outdoor sauna surrounded by manicured gardens and slender cabanas. 

Middle Eastern guests will appreciate the privacy, with separate male and female facilities available for certain services, ensuring a comfortable and respectful experience.

The state-of-the-art ELITE Gym is a dedicated performance space offering the latest in wellness technology, including a cryotherapy chamber, underwater treadmill and 3D body scanners. For those who prefer outdoor activities, the surrounding countryside is perfect for leisurely walks or more adventurous pursuits, such as cycling or horseback riding.

The Verdict

Grantley Hall is a destination that caters to a specific  traveller—one who appreciates luxury, heritage, and a personalised service. Whether you come to relax in the spa, indulge in fine dining, or immerse yourself in the history of this magnificent estate, Grantley Hall offers a picture-perfect, peaceful retreat.

It is a place where tradition is honoured but where the highest standards of contemporary hospitality ensure that every guest feels like royalty.

GO: Visit www.grantleyhall.co.uk for reservations and more information.