REVIEW: GRANTLEY HALL, YORKSHIRE

Steeped in over 300 years of heritage, Grantley Hall was built by Thomas Norton and his son Fletcher Norton, first Baron Grantley, in the 17th century, based on a Palladian design by English architect Isaac Ware. Over the years, the property became firmly established on the British country retreat scene, welcoming high-profile guests including Queen Mary and the Princess Royal, prominent international businessmen, politicians and society families. The multimillion- pound restoration project, overseen by owners the Yorkshire-based Sykes family, saw Grantley Hall return to its former glory, capturing its elegant grandeur, along with the addition of several new buildings.

Located in the heart of the rolling Yorkshire countryside with its own English Heritage-listed Japanese garden, the historic property, a member of the prestigious association of hotels and restaurants Relais & Châteaux, is a distinctly different luxury hotel and wellness retreat, featuring 47 exquisite rooms and suites.

Interiors are grand but contemporary in a style keeping with the original architecture, designed to highlight the many historic features including original fireplaces, oak panelling and ornate cornice work, with art and furnishings handpicked by Valeria Sykes from a variety of local artisans and suppliers including the custom-made beds from Harrison Spinks. Large bottles of Yorkshire speciality damson gin from Raisthorpe Manor at Malton feature in all bedrooms for guests to sample.

As a patron of New Light, a charitable initiative supporting visual arts in the north of England, Valeria has chosen an eclectic selection of art from local artists to adorn the walls of Grantley Hall, from the more classic country landscapes by James Naughton in the reception area through to the more abstract colourful oil collages by Simon Casson in Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall. A striking metallic sculpture resembling fish scales created by Harrogate-based architectural metalwork company Kendrew takes a central position in the hotel gardens. Executive Rooms are located in the Queen Anne Wing of the original 17th century Hall. These beautiful rooms boast many original features such as marble fireplaces and window seats. Atmospheric on another level, bespoke furniture from Hillcross Furniture sets the tone while elegant and mood setting lighting from Chelsom and Vaughan Lighting strike a beautiful balance between new and old.