The Launch of THE GARAGE: The upcycled quintessential English spa in rural Teesdale

Report this content

Opens November 2012

June 2012: An ancient stopping station at Greta Bridge in rural Teesdale, which was previously used as a refuelling and repairing point for the country’s first motorcars travelling between London and Scotland, is being upcycled to THE GARAGE, a quintessential English spa with an abundance of character.

Opening in November 2012, THE GARAGE will combine the simplicity and comfort of English rustic charm with luxurious and innovative spa facilities to create a haven of unparalleled relaxation both indoors and out. The sumptuous décor awash with natural Teesdale stone and mellow red cedar timber is designed to make guests feel immediately at home and privy to the warmest of house parties.

But THE GARAGE is no ordinary spa. Want your nails done? Step into the paint shop. Not firing on all cylinders? A full body MOT might be just what you need. Need to put the brakes on after exploring the gorgeous rolling Teesdale hills and highways? Then THE GARAGE is a welcome break.

THE GARAGE has been creatively designed to make the most of its history and location with the spa spilling out into the outdoor space and relaxation experiences which can be enjoyed whatever the weather. New innovations, and a first in the UK, is the Shepherd’s Hut log sauna set in the beautiful Secret Garden complete with hanging pods with fur throws and a simple but stylish spacious tent for some serious back to nature relaxation. Indoors, guests will be able to dip in and out of the hot tubs, feel the warmth of natural stone in the garden herb scented steam room and breathe in the benefits of the salt room with its aromatherapy-infused ancient salt block wall. There is also a Mud Pit for sharing with a friend or two, Car Wash showers and dry float rooms where you can float on water without getting wet. In between there are wholesome and freshly made delicious snacks and refreshments to enjoy, all using locally sourced products, many from the owner’s vegetable garden.

Treatments will take guests on their preferred journey to relaxation and looking fantastic. Following a Treatment Menu Road Map, they will be able to choose from: The Country Lane, The Scenic Route, The Coastal Path and Off Road. Each journey offers a selection of face and body treatments using THE GARAGE’s own product range which has been developed in conjunction with The Natural Spa Factory and incorporates a selection of locally sourced ingredients.

Conceived by Barbara-Anne Johnson, a director of The Morritt Hotel at Greta Bridge, in partnership with Jeremy Smith of award winning spa and leisure designers, Blue Spa & Leisure and Nick Mee from Mathewsmee, interior designers and architect, the design has been inspired by the rural simplicity of the local area and by sourcing unique spa experiences which offer real and honest wellbeing benefits. Teesdale artist, Stuart Short, has been commissioned to bring to life the character of THE GARAGE through quirky and humorous imagery which links past with present.

On announcing the launch of THE GARAGE, Barbara-Anne Johnson says: “Our vision is to create a place where people can truly leave their worries at the door, relax with a partner or friend and enjoy the highest levels of comfort and service with some imaginative and unforgettable experiences.”

THE GARAGE will be accessible to spa break and day spa/treatment visitors in addition to residents of the adjoining Morritt hotel. There is also The Garage membership available for local residents and corporates.

THE GARAGE, Greta Bridge, Nr. Barnard Castle, Co. Durham DL12 9SE. Tel: 01833 863100 Email: service@thegaragespa.co.uk. www.thegaragespa.co.uk.

Ends

For further press enquiries please contact:

Carly Mahoney or Tracey Stapleton at The Spa PR Company

T. 020 7100 7018 E. carly@thespaprcompany.com | tracey@thespaprcompany.com

Note to Editors:

Specifications for The GARAGE :

  • 450 sq.m
  • 5 single treatment rooms
  • 1 couples suite with outdoor couple bath
  • Mud Pitt – Rasul
  • Hamman
  • Dry float
  • Steam room
  • Salt Room
  • 3 red cedar hot tubs. (Ix plunge pool, 1x relax pool and 1x hydro pool.)
  • Car wash – shower experience
  • Paint shop – nail bar
  • Blow dry bar
  • Outdoor hot tub
  • Coffee bar/ reception.
  • Outdoor log fire
  • Outdoor shepherd hut sauna
  • Nail bar - paint shop

For further press enquiries please contact:

Carly Mahoney or Tracey Stapleton at The Spa PR Company

T. 020 7100 7018 E. carly@thespaprcompany.com | tracey@thespaprcompany.com