We all know it’s important to take a break from our busy schedules and relax with some ‘me time’ in order to create some Work/Life balance, and after a recent visit to Helmsley, North Yorkshire, WorkLife magazine can’t recommend The Feversham Arms Hotel & Verbena Spa enough!
The hotel was easy to find and whilst my bags were taken to my room, I joined my host, owner Simon Rhatigan for Afternoon Tea. Simon and his wife Jill (pictured above) bought The Feversham Arms in 2004 and have been upgrading and adding to this former pub ever since. I was immediately impressed with the friendliness of the staff and the attention to detail, but then that is not surprising given Simon’s background as Company General Manager to Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons & Blanc Restaurants. Simon is a great host, with an easy charm and real belief in his product.
And the Afternoon Tea did not disappoint! Guests can enjoy a variety of sandwiches, fresh succulent strawberries to accompany the scones & cream, an abundance of freshly made cakes and pastries for only £14.95. Just as I was finishing the finger-licking scone and fresh cream, I was invited to the Spa for some relaxing treatments. The Verbena Spa is open to residents and non- residents and has a glass fronted relaxation area which directly looks out on the pool side terrace. The heated pool is open all year round and is surrounded by the hotel buildings which give it a secure feel. The Spa has been custom built and it shows. With large comfy sofas and chairs and plenty of magazines, the relaxation area is the perfect place to wind down.
I opted for the Elemis Skin Specific Facial (1 hour at £65) and also enjoyed a Jessica Nails Manicure. My therapist, Philippa, was a pleasure to talk to and explained the products and process in full. There are 7 treatment rooms, including one double. Products are by Elemis and Anne Semonin.
With bright red, perfectly sculpted nails and feeling suitably refreshed I made my way to my Suite to change for dinner. The suites are spacious, with a double doorway from the lounge to the bedroom. All bedrooms are fitted with Bang & Olufsen televisions with integral DVD and CD players, and a nice choice of DVD’s await. Usually so busy back in Manchester, I took full advantage of my suite and all its extras, as I turned up Classic FM (yes, Classic FM!) and bathed in L’Occitaine bubble bath with candles lit, before slipping into the fluffy bath robe.
On my way to dinner, I took time to enjoy the vast array of art on display and became quite fond of the ‘The Feversham Cow’. We dined in the private dining room with a choice of dishes, all of which were delicious and no wonder, given the credentials of head chef, Simon Kelly, who trained under Michel Roux at his 3 Michelin starred Waterside Inn, at Bray.
26 - WORK
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