Bannatyne Durham

Lunch was a lovely way to round off my visit, and the three mini treatments were great. Jo was so friendly and helped me feel comfortable and relaxed straight away. I had such a lovely time at Bannatyne Health Club & Spa, a 10/10 experience that I’d definitely recommend to anyone after a relaxing spa day.

The room was basic but had what I needed, though a fridge would’ve been useful. I wasn’t quite sure where to go on my first visit, but the staff helped me find my way. They spoke a little too quietly for me to catch everything, though I managed. The spa facilities were great, and my Swedish massage was just right and did the job. I’d highly recommend a spa break here and plan to return.

The countryside views and the calm feel of the spa were what I enjoyed most at Bannatyne Durham. I came in after a busy week and left feeling relaxed and ready to get on with things. The massage was wonderful, with a knowledgeable therapist who adjusted it to what I needed. The pool, sauna and steam room were clean and well cared for, and the staff were attentive, bringing fresh towels and drinks when needed. There’s plenty at the gym too, with modern equipment and a good range of classes. The spa area had a serene atmosphere, and the views were lovely. I’d happily come back soon.

The treatments were the best part. The therapists were lovely, and the sessions were relaxing, though I wish the room had been warmer. After that, the so-called relaxation room was hard to enjoy: some of the heated stone beds didn’t work, and noise from banging doors, a pump or water system, and loud conversations nearby kept carrying in. We paid for a spa day and still had to wait at reception in a long queue, with no warm welcome. They explained where everything was, which helped, but we were told to wait by the cafe until our treatment. That area is marked for spa guests, yet two women were eating there and a man was reading. Cafe staff served the women while we sat in our robes, and I felt they should have been asked to move. It didn’t seem fair to spa guests. The pool had what we needed and was clean, but four loungers were taken up by towels from another group who didn’t use them during the whole hour we were there. Staff should keep an eye on that and remove towels when nobody is using a lounger. The £10 charge per person for a flimsy bag, cheap flip-flops, a towel and a small, well-used robe felt excessive and wasn’t refundable. We had to return the towel and robe before leaving. The cafe was all right, but clinical and uncomfortable for a spa day, with some good but expensive options. There’s nothing relaxing or zen about Bannatyne’s. The indoor space doesn’t work well as both a fitness club and a spa, especially with the relaxation room where it is. We’ll look elsewhere and wouldn’t return.