The Yorkshire Coast’s windswept beachy blues and breathtaking Cleveland Way have always been a magnet for travellers. Sandsend, a little fishing village with a wispy, blonde sandy sweep, was often overlooked for bigger and bolder Whitby, unfairly; it’s a practically perfect, serene, seductive coastal spot, but there weren’t excellent hotels to warrant a sleepover. Until now, with the arrival of Saltmoore, newly awarded Two MICHELIN Keys.
This sumptuous, glossy luxury wellness retreat launched in late 2024. Formerly the Raithwaite Estate, it's idyllically set within 85 acres of soul-soothing woodland, and a quick dash to the shores of Sandsend beach. Flanked on either side by windswept moors and shimmering, it actually couldn’t be better placed for a cosseting spa break.
Saltmoore: A Pampering Retreat Sandwiched Between Moors and Sea
The only soundtrack at Saltmoore is one of nature – and the song of the sea. If you’re lucky, you’ll see shy deer wandering the grounds and the morning birdsong, or symphony, is a preferred alarm.The melodramatic asymmetry of the Victorian-era estate, complemented with a supercool, modish makeover, is impressive to start. The plush retreat comprises of two hotels, Saltmoore House at the heart of the retreat and The Beach House, which is centred around laid-back luxury with outdoor tubs.
Saltmoore has 72 gorgeous, ultra-luxe rooms and suites with grand interiors reflecting the natural landscape: the bright yellow gorse, the deep purple heather and the big blue sea, all courtesy of Sapin Studio. Book the sunny, saffron-hued Gorse Suite or the decadent, mauve-toned Heather Suite with rich, autumnal colours and textures – accommodations that peer out onto the peaceful woodlands that cloak Saltmoore.
In Saltmoore’s super-stylish rooms, everything is deluxe: there are the finest crisp Egyptian cotton sheets, fluffy down bedding and refined living spaces designed to linger in – this is carefully considered luxury. The delight continues with dream-inducing emperor beds and deep, freestanding bathtubs, powerful rainforest showers and aromatic Wildsmith products (try coming away without purchasing the linden, chamomile and cedarwood).
The Sanctuary is the high-tech, sleek and sheeny spa and health suite. There are wonderful Wildsmith treatments, splashy indoor and spa pools, sauna and steam rooms, an ice bath and a cryo chamber. On-trend wild swimming will become a future feature. A super-swanky, elite spa like Sanctuary has never graced this part of the Yorkshire coast before, so it’s a seriously welcome addition. Sandsend has never seen anything like it.
As for Saltmoore’s restaurants and bars, they pay homage to the local nature and seasons – the MICHELIN Guide-recommended Brasserie is the lead restaurant with its main character energy; Pizzeria at The Beach House opened during summer; The Orangerie is the pretty afternoon tea lounge; and immersive fine dining will launch soon at CALLUNA. Finally, there’s The Terrace and The Wellness Café attached to the spa.
The Brasserie at Saltmoore: A Taste of Yorkshire
The Brasserie, based in Saltmoore House, is a warm and modern dining option with an amiable feel, moments from the hotel’s reception desk. Sublime, rich, forest-green walls, opulent marble café tables and seersucker upholstery make for an elegant dining space.The restaurant is helmed by Head Chef Adam Maddock, formerly of the Clunie Dining Room, with Yorkshire’s famed Tommy Banks of The Black Swan at Oldstead having previously been on-board to help with the launch. This perfect pairing has meant the menu is expertly designed. Local sourcing plays a role, as you’d expect, with superior ingredients used in the well-crafted dishes coming out of the kitchen.
An affable service team ensures the dining experience runs seamlessly and is on hand to talk diners through the classic British menu. Seasonality is the name of the game: local seafood and high-grade meats are a distinct focus, including the artfully plated and generously portioned Whitby crab tart, made with the freshest crab from Sandsend’s neighbouring town. The venison haunch is a notable dish too: seared venison with a delicious gamey flavour, delivering harmonious tastes with skill and finesse. Exquisite heather honey from the North York Moors is drizzled on the crème brûlée for another winning local touch.
The local team at Saltmoore need a mention: they take pride in working at this ritzy new retreat, which has created many jobs in the sleepy fishing village. They are friendly without being intrusive and provide excellent local recommendations, complete with the hallmark, dry Yorkshire wit. Nothing can beat returning from a bitter, wind-whipped walk to incredible food and wine, good banter and a long sleep – in a sensationally snug suite. Actually, a weekend at Saltmoore is much too short.
Need To Know
A bite-sized breakdown of your most frequently asked questions about SaltmooreWho comes here?
International and local travellers, often en route to other parts of the Yorkshire Coast or the North York Moors. Saltmoore provides a great opportunity for an exciting Sandsend base.
When is the best time to visit?
Summertime is best for days on Sandsend beach and the Yorkshire Coast, but any time of year really – Saltmoore is snug and festive in winter and the rooms are totally luxurious.
What's the best room for a solo traveller? A couple? A family?
Rooms and suites are spread across Saltmoore House and The Beach House. In Saltmoore House, rooms sleep two, but the Classic Friends Suite has two double bedrooms, two bathrooms and a living area – ideal for a group of four. Interconnecting rooms can also be booked. There will be holiday accommodation available in the future, including seven two- and three-bed lodges.
What else is there to do in the area?
Tour the Yorkshire Coast and take in some lesser-known beaches or walk part of the Cleveland Way – an inspiring coastal walking trail. The North York Moors and countryside are accessible too.
What's the final word?
If you’re looking for a pampering, seaside spa getaway, with excellent dining options, country and coast highlights, and fancy digs, look no further.
Hero Image: The Brasserie at Saltmoore, part of this luxurious Two-MICHELIN-Key wellness retreat on the Yorkshire Coast. © Saltmoore
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