Located in Retford, Ye Olde Bell Hotel & Spa is a luxurious property that provides the perfect setting for pre-wedding getaways, hen or stag dos, weddings and minimoons. When the opportunity arose to see the venue in person, I couldn’t wait to discover what makes the hotel such a popular destination. TIME TO RELAX Upon arrival, we headed straight to the spa where I was greeted by the friendly staff who showed us around and were on-hand throughout the whole experience to cater for our every need. After being handed robes and slippers, we started off our day with the foot spas before discovering the 11 thermal experiences and the indoor/outdoor vitality pool with water massage jets. My favourite spots were the salt inhalation room and the shower walk which alternated between warm and cold settings. My partner loved the snow storm walk the most, a cold experience that helps boost your immune system. We also enjoyed the sauna, stone bath and steam rooms, each have many benefits for the mind and body. After going back and forth between rooms, we decided to relax on one of the alpine chalets before testing out the rattan apple and my favourite, the heated loungers. We had a lovely meal in the Herb Garden Brasserie halfway through our spa day. Here we enjoyed corn-fed chicken with confit chicken bon bon, corn purée and thyme Parisienne potatoes followed by a white chocolate cheesecake with salted caramel, caramelised white chocolate crumb and cocoa tuile. Why our food was going down, we enjoyed the Sabbia Med session that left us feeling completely relaxed. The 30-minute cycle replicates sunrise to sunset in a dreamy beach setting with a sandy floor, the sound of crashing waves and painted walls to mimic the seaside. The low levels of UV releases plenty of vitamin D and leaves you feeling fabulous. WINE AND DINE After spending most of the day relaxing, it was time for dinner in the Restaurant 1650. The AA Rosette restaurant and bistro offers an extensive menu with plenty of options for even the pickiest eaters. The talented chefs create delicious dishes using fresh and local produce where possible, which is evident from the flavours. To start I opted for carrot and coriander soup before tucking into a beer battered haddock with chips, mushy peas and bread and butter. What better way to end the meal than a crème brulé that was cooked to perfection? One thing that really stood out to me was the dining setting with oak panelling, a contemporary art décor bar and historic touches that provided a homely and cosy atmosphere. REST YOUR HEAD With plenty of rooms, suites and lodges, guests can rest their heads after a full day of pampering. I was lucky enough to spend the night in The Grove, a stunning two-storey lodge that provided the ideal location for a relaxing night in with a lounge, mini kitchen, roll-top bath and walk-in shower. The charming interior and spacious rooms created the perfect setting, we spent the night curled up on the sofa watching movies before heading to bed. In the morning we were greeted by freshly-baked bread, pastries, fruit, meats and cheeses for breakfast. Not forgetting the fabulous selection of cooked food including all types of eggs, porridge, pancakes, hash browns, bacon, sausage and more. There are also vegan and vegetarian full breakfast options too. After the perfect start to the morning, it was sadly time to pack up and go home. However, me and my partner are already playing our trip to return at Christmas, which I know will be oh-so romantic and festive! Book your stay here: www.yeoldebell-hotel.co.uk pre-wedding getaway The ultimate Olivia Gibson discovers Ye Olde Bell Hotel & Spa REVIEW 23 DID YOU KNOW? Ye Olde Bell Hotel & Spa can also host stunning weddings in its six licensed spaces including the Fairtyale Oak Pavilion in the pictureperfect gardens.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0NTE=