Christmas Relaxation at Bristol HarSPA

A couple of weeks ago, Bristol Harbour Hotel hosted a wonderful blogger event in their basement spa.

Set in the old vaults of a former bank, under the hotel, this beautiful spa is the perfect retreat from the Christmas shopping madness that’s on the streets above. 

At the event we were treated to delicious canapés and Prosecco and got to try a ‘Christmas Pudding’ cocktail courtesy of the hotels Gold Bar. We were also shown the spas upcoming new range of ESPA products which smelled amazing! 

With the lead up to Christmas and some personal family issues, I couldn’t of been happier to receive a mini treatment on the night. I opted for the hand and arm massage which was quite frankly, heavenly. I’ll admit that I’ve never had a proper, professional massage before and now I’m wanting more! The 2 therapists that massaged mine and another bloggers hands, were just the sweetest girls. We had a good natter and a giggle and I almost forgot I was there as a blogger.

At the end of the event, we were each given a goody bag which contained a hand cream sample, a hotel signature chocolate bar and a voucher for a 2 hour visit to the spa with a plus 1. In need of some serious down time, my daughter and I returned just 2 days later.

I’ve previously visited the spa before so I was super excited to be returning to my new favourite spot, knowing just what to expect. 

I just adore the warmth and the coziness of this spa. There’s no dash for towels or the changing rooms between using the spa as it’s just so warm! With little quiet nooks, perfect for reading a book and a cheeky doze, it’s lack of size really makes you feel safe and almost homely. 

HarSPA have some great offers on this Christmas. You can find them here, or gift vouchers would make the ideal gift for someone who could really use a touch of pampering or relaxation. 

Sunday Lunch at Bristol Harbour Hotel

I'll admit that I'm not really one for roast dinners very often so when I do go out for one, it has to be pretty special! Off me and my husband went to check out The Jetty at Bristol Harbour Hotel. It was a scorcher of a day and as much as I was hungry and in need of refreshments, I was sweaty and grumpy. The summer heat and I do not mix well at all. But stepping inside, I was met with a beautiful light, chilled restaurant. With high ceilings, stark white interior and large booths, I knew this was the perfect spot for lunch. 

With two courses for just £15.95 and 3 courses for £19.95, I was pleasantly surprised at the value. I poured over the menu whilst sipping on a much needed Aperol Spritz and chose a cheese soufflé for my starter. I'll admit that as much as a cheese addict I am, I've never ordered a soufflé before. It was delicious! Bubbling hot, rich cheese lent way to its twice baked fluffy interior.

For my mains, I went for the belly pork. The pork was sadly under seasoned, a little too fatty and lacked a crispy top but this was substituted by the accompanying crackling straw on its perch of black pudding purée and poached apple. With sides of cauliflower cheese, large fluffy roast potatoes and honey mustard carrots and parsnips. A relatively light roast dinner that didn't over fill us. 

The dessert was my favourite course of the meal which was a pleasant surprise as I'm definitely a more savoury fan. A simple lemon tart. The pastry crust was light and delicate, the lemon was tart yet creamy which was the perfect contrast to the sugary topping that gave a wonderful crunch. 

The Jetty really deliver when it comes to fine dining on a smaller budget. Set within former banking halls, The Jetty is filled with restored interiors that certainly adds to it's charm. All produce is seasonal and locally sourced and they boast an impressive wine and cocktail list too. For reservations, opening times and contact info, click 

here

Afternoon Tea at Hotel Du Vin

 

Since moving to Bristol, there's nothing my husband and I love to do more than check out new or interesting places to eat at.

Earlier this month, I was kindly invited along to sample Hotel Du Vin newest afternoon tea menu and I couldn't of been more thrilled! 

I headed on over to the Grade ll listed former sugar warehouse with anticipation, to not only dine on some delicious afternoon tea but also catch up with some other Bristol based bloggers. Something I always enjoy.

After a welcome glass of Hotel Du Vins own brand Champagne, we got a brief lesson in the history of the building and a run down of the beautiful looking tea. We were shown to the private dining room and took our seats. The room itself was simply decorated but still had such a grand atmosphere to it, perfect for small weddings, functions and meetings.

 

 

So about the food. The savoury selection- Always my favourite course- did not disappoint. With mini brioche sub rolls generously filled with egg and cress, ham and cheese croissant, a Severn & Wye smoked salmon and cream cheese bagel, goats cheese and spinach quiche and a tomato gallete, I was so thrilled. Everything was so light so there was definitely room for the desserts! 

 

In between courses, I went on a short tour of the bedrooms in the hotel. The transformation from a disused warehouse to a hotel was amazing yet still featured so many of its former elements, only adding to its charm. The best was the Veuve Clicquot suite. A loft style room that was sumptuous and cosy, with twin roll top bath tubs on a mezzanine level that overlooked the bedroom, was just stunning.

 

After heading back downstairs for the rest of our afternoon tea, we got to meet Dan, Head Mixologist, who talked us through his newest cocktails. One being the Breakfast Martini containing Earl Grey syrup, Chase Vodka, orange juice and buttered Bourbon. I also got to try Dan's signature Buttered Bourbon on its own. Both were gorgeously silky - and strong!

Buttered Bourbon

Feeling a little tipsy, I attempted the desserts. My favourite being the Gin & Tonic jelly and dark chocolate and raspberry teacakes. There was also mini lemon meringue pies, rhubarb and custard doughnuts and of course fresh baked scones with clotted cream, Bonne Maman jams and Lescure butter. The finishing touch was the sweet little sticks of apple candy floss on top which really set it apart from any ordinary tea.

I had such a lovely time at this event, with special thanks to all Hotel Du Vin for their hospitality and Heather Cowper for the invite. I'm already making plans to return for an evening in the cozy Sugar Bar to try more cocktails at Christmas, or perhaps even treating my husband to a cocktail making masterclass! 

Afternoon tea prices start at £20 per person with upgrades and run from 12 to 6pm daily, menus, gift vouchers and further details can be found here.