The Official Magazine of Sidmouth Harbour Hotel
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welcome
welcome Showcasing our beautiful newly refurbished Sidmouth Harbour Hotel and packed full of great features, we’re delighted to introduce our first Weddings in the South Magazine, Sidmouth Edition.
This first issue is full of fantastic ideas to help you plan your wedding day. Pretty Petals is the perfect feature to help you pick your wedding flowers and The Finer Details is full of all those little details that make your wedding truly unique. In Sidmouth we are blessed with a spectacular location overlooking the bay, along with our newly refurbished hotel – we’re sure you will instantly fall in love with both the venue and romantic town, from the moment you turn the first page… From picking up the perfect dress to your complete wedding guide, your wedding will be a flawless day to remember. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’d love to give you a tour of our new hotel, exclusive function spaces and stunning outdoor terraces; bringing to life what your day could be like at our Sidmouth Harbour Hotel.
The Events Team Sidmouth Harbour Hotel t. 01395 513 252 sidmouth@harbourhotels.co.uk www.sidmouth-harbour-hotel.co.uk @SidmouthHHotel
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For all enquiries regarding advertising, or editorial submissions or just to say hello, please email hello@weare778.com. Published by We Are 778 on behalf of Harbour Hotels. © 2015 Weddings in the South. All rights reserved. We Are 778 e. hello@weare778.com weare778.com Nothing in whole or in part may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The views expressed in Weddings in the South are those of the contributors and are not necessarily shared by the magazine or its staff. The author and publisher excepts no responsibility for content and/or advertising copy supplied by third parties. Although every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this magazine was correct at time of going to press, the author and publisher do not assume and hereby disclaim any liability to any party for any loss, damage, or disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause.
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what’s inside
what’s inside Weddings in the South Magazine, Sidmouth Edition No.1
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sidmouth harbour hotel
delectable dining
your wedding guide
With an exceptional location and spectacular bay views, Sidmouth Harbour Hotel is set to become the region’s most desirable waterfront wedding venue
Incorporate your favourite flavours into a bespoke menu for your special day
The date, the venue, the decorations, the food, the guest list… there’s plenty to consider in the run up to your wedding
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petal pretty
the finer details
Dress your day with fantastic flowers that accentuate your colour palette and theme
Consider the intricate details that will make your wedding day perfectly personal
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your wedding, your wedding packages To keep the planning simple, we have created some wedding packages to suit your special day
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a town to fall in love with Beautifully situated on the east Devon coast, Sidmouth Harbour Hotel enjoys panoramic views over Sidmouth and the magnificent Jurassic coastline
with thanks… Front cover image courtesy of KISS Photography
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the look of love
coastal calm
Discover the 2016 Jenny Packham bridal collection; inspired by Shakespeare’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’
Relax into your big day, as you make the most of our luxury Harbour Spa
Photography kindly supplied by:
Chris Deller Photography Graham Nixon Photography
Peppermint Love Photography IIaria Petrucci Photography
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weddings in the south magazine // sidmouth edition
sidmouth harbour hotel
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sidmouth harbour hotel
With an exceptional location and spectacular bay views, Sidmouth Harbour Hotel is set to become the region’s most desirable waterfront wedding venue.
Take your vows in our beautiful new wedding suite, sip Champagne on the private wedding terrace and enjoy breath-taking photos against the dramatic coastline. Whether you are looking for an awe-inspiring venue for an intimate coastal wedding, or a superb backdrop for a grander affair, the versatility of the venue allows you to really make the day your own.
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weddings in the south magazine // sidmouth edition
Image featured is the Function room at our Salcombe Harbour Hotel & Spa
the wedding suite The magnificent new wedding suite offers a beautiful setting alongside stylish new decor. Licenced to hold civil ceremonies for up to 100 guests, the stunning function room provides a breath-taking backdrop for you to take your vows against. The room’s wooden dance floor, integrated sound system and private bar are perfect for your evening party, as you and your guests dance into the night.
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exclusive wedding terrace The suite drifts out onto a private outdoor wedding terrace, perfect for your Champagne reception. Beautifully decked, the extensive terrace takes in the magnificent setting, allowing your wedding party to enjoy the views.
sidmouth harbour hotel
the reception room
the hotel
For those that desire a more intimate ceremony, the newly appointed reception room offers the perfect space. Licensed for ceremonies for up to 40 people, the room features a decadent fireplace and coastal chic new design.
Stay in complete luxury as husband and wife, as you surround yourselves with your family and friends, encouraging them to make the most of their visit with an extended stay and the chance to explore the local area.
With rich fabrics, crisp linens and deeply comfortable beds, many with private balconies and stunning views, the hotel’s 57 bedrooms are stylish, luxurious and impeccably furnished.
The hotel’s stylish new restaurant ‘Upper Deck’ takes full advantage of its waterside location, with menus created by award-winning Chef Patron Alex Aitken, and top local chefs delivering mouth-watering fresh and seasonal dishes.
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weddings in the south magazine // sidmouth edition
luxury harbour spa Coming soon, the new Harbour Spa is set to feature five treatment rooms, fitness suite, indoor pool, hydrotherapy pool, sauna and steam room, this is the perfect place to relax and unwind as you prepare for the biggest day of your life.
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sidmouth harbour hotel
explore With unbroken views over Lyme Bay, walks over the rolling green hills of the glorious Sid Valley and the South West Coastal Path, Sidmouth Harbour Hotel offers a variety of wonderful experiences. Explore the boutiques of this charming seaside town – as you take in the heritage and beauty of its unspoilt location.
Devon is renowned for its coastal walks and there are some beautiful paths right on Sidmouth Harbour Hotel’s doorstep that wind along the unique Jurassic Coast. Enjoy a gentle beach stroll, as you take in the coastline, or stride out on to the cliff-tops for breathtaking views. Encourage your guests to get out and enjoy the area, with an extended stay. Or, for those not flying away on honeymoon straight away, stay a little longer and soak up the delights of this stunning corner of Devon.
For more information call us on 01395 513252 or email sidmouth@harbourhotels.co.uk or visit us at www.sidmouth-harbour-hotel.co.uk. 11
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your wedding, your way
To keep the planning simple, we have created the following wedding packages that can be tailored to perfectly match your requirements and suit your special day:
the harbour wedding package
• Complimentary room hire for your wedding breakfast and evening celebrations • Red carpet arrival for you and your guests • A glass of sparkling wine or Pimm’s for your reception drink • Three course wedding breakfast with coffee and truffles • Half a bottle of house recommended wine per person • A glass of sparkling wine for the toast • Choice of 8 items for your evening buffet • Silver cake stand and knife • White table linen and napkins • Services of a cash bar • Services of our Wedding Co-ordinator to guide you through the build-up and during your wedding day • Luxurious bedroom for the night of the wedding for the Bride and Groom 2016 – £3,995 This package prices are based on 60 adults – we can adapt the prices to suit your numbers or include any upgrades. Please note minimum numbers apply for Fridays & Saturdays. Available: January – March & October – December.
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your wedding, your wedding packages
• Complimentary room hire for your wedding breakfast and evening reception • Red carpet arrival for you and your guests • A glass of Champagne or Peach Bellini’s for your reception drink • Four course wedding breakfast with coffee and truffles • Half a bottle of the house recommended wine per guest
the connaught wedding package
• A glass of Champagne for the toast • Choice of 10 items for your evening buffet • Silver cake stand and knife • White table linen and napkins • Services of a Toastmaster • Services of a cash bar • Services of our Wedding Co-ordinator to guide you through the build-up and during your wedding day 2016 – £5,995 This package prices are based on 60 adults – we can adapt the prices to suit your numbers or include any upgrades. Please note minimum numbers apply for Fridays & Saturdays. Available: April – September.
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a town to fall in love with
a town to fall in love with
Beautifully situated on the east Devon coast, Sidmouth Harbour Hotel enjoys panoramic views over Sidmouth and the magnificent Jurassic coastline.
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As once quoted by Guardian journalist, David McKie, “There are essentially two kinds of English seaside resort, Sidmouth and all the rest.” With an outstanding location, encourage your guests to head out and enjoy the local area, as they take in the beauty of this seaside town. Sidmouth still has a unique charm, which has captivated thousands. Beautiful gardens, leisurely walks, Regency history, fine hotels, clean beaches
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and friendly shops - it’s all here in this lovely seaside town. Sidmouth nestles beneath majestic red cliffs and the green hills of the glorious Sid valley, meaning it is not only picturesque but also enjoys a very mild climate. Explore the winding streets of Sidmouth, with its many chic boutiques, or head to the cliffs for a romantic coastal walk. Not for getting water-based activities like yachting, paddle-boarding, shipwreck diving and surfing...
a town to fall in love with
There are essentially two kinds of English seaside resort, Sidmouth and all the rest
On the doorstep of Britain’s longest and most popular National Trail, The South West Coast Path, Sidmouth is such a fantastic walking destination it features its very own Walking Festival, with short strolls or strides out on to the cliff-tops.
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a town to fall in love with
Whilst visiting, you and your guests can take advantage of this unique location. Why not arrange a boat trip for your party, or visit nearby attractions including The Donkey Sanctuary, a charity founded in 1969 aiming to make a difference to the lives of donkeys and people all over the world. Sidmouth even boasts its very own Observatory, for star-gazing, planetarium shows and astronomy talks and tours. Take a peek at the stars and find out about the skies above Sidmouth with a visit to Norman Lockyer Observatory. Popular for surfing and kayaking too, the groom and his groomsmen might decide to take to the water the morning of the wedding, washing away any nerves and setting him up for the most important day of his life. This also provides a great photo opportunity and memories to last a lifetime.
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delectable dining The dedicated team at the Sidmouth Harbour Hotel will work with you, to ensure that your favourite flavours are incorporated into a bespoke menu for your special day.
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delectable dining
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delectable dining
Award winning Chef Patron Alex Aitken creates delectable menus for Sidmouth Harbour Hotel, working with the Head Chef to source the freshest ingredients, bursting with flavour; “We have a very simple food philosophy; keep it fresh, seasonal and local.” Understanding that your wedding breakfast is no ordinary meal, Alex explains it’s a journey from inception to service: “Our couples meet with the team, including Chef, working together to create the perfect menu for their special day. Your wedding day is a journey over several months, we aim to make each step fun, building up to a glorious event.” Alex recommends that “your wedding breakfast should be a reflection of you as a couple, with food that mirrors your style and the tone of the day.” At the Sidmouth Harbour Hotel, you can be certain that your wedding breakfast will be delectably tailored to you and your day. The whole team are dedicated to delivering the wedding of your dreams. From discussing themes and décor, to the food and wine and pre decision tastings, we work closely with each couple to create a wonderful day.
new upper deck bar & restaurant Sidmouth Harbour Hotel is delighted to introduce a stylish new Upper Deck Bar & Restaurant, with unrivalled coastal views and menus designed by award-winning Chef Patron Alex Aitken. A relaxed restaurant, drifting out onto an impressive outdoor terrace, Upper Deck features stunning new furnishings alongside coastal-chic décor, all with the backdrop of dramatic sea views. An expansive new lounge and bar provides the perfect setting to enjoy a drink during your stay, with an extensive wine and cocktail list to choose from.
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pretty petals
petal pretty Fresh and fragrant, symbolic of youth, beauty and happiness, dress your day beautifully with fantastic flowers that accentuate your colour palette and theme.
When it comes to wedding flowers, brides are baffled by the variety of beautiful blooms. But with a little help from a friendly florist, you are ensured breath-taking décor and fantastic photos. With such a wide variety available, we take a look at some options when considering the flowers for your big day… Match your flowers to your theme for perfectly pretty décor. Vintage is particularly popular at the moment, with dresses finished with lace, pastel colour palettes and hand finished decorations. Choose subtle ivories, soft textures and muted tones, accentuated by deep greens for eye-catching contrast. Coral roses and freesias are perfect for the bride’s bouquet or lavender for something more unusual with a delicate colour and scent. Why not accessorise with leftover lace from your dress fitting, or soft white feathers that will catch in the breeze?
For your coastal wedding with a seaside theme, blue flowers will instantly convey tranquil waters. Soft blue hydrangeas, nigella and cornflowers are all stunning for your arrangements. A striking alternative is to choose pretty white petals and arrange your flowers with blue ribbon around the stems or vase, reminiscent of pure white foam atop crashing waves. If your idea of wedding day bliss is one surrounded by the simple beauty of a country garden colour palette, choose a selection of soft pinks, greens and creams. Great flowers for this theme are lilies, ammi majus, gerbera, alstroemeria and fragrant narcissi. Or if you dream in bold, bright colours, tulips are widely available, versatile and eye-catching. Why not make use of the exotic colours in statement stems such as bird of paradise flowers or orange anthurium? They are also perfect for a tropical theme. Remember, although brides are lucky that many flowers are now 25
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grown in greenhouses and available all year round, it is often wise to consider the seasons when choosing your flowers. Seasonal blooms will often look best and complement the time of year that you wed. Out of season stocks, although available, may be more expensive than their in-season counterparts. In spring, peonies, sweet peas, daffodils and freesias are in season and perfectly pretty. And, for a summer wedding, there is plenty of choice; from romantic roses in shades of white, pink and red, to blousy peonies and joyful yellow sunflowers – design your day bursting with colour. Autumn offers warm shades of dahlia and aramanthus, which look fantastic against dark, forest greens. Then winter with its red amaryllis, berried ivy and fluffy pussy willow can offer some 26
very striking displays. With such variety throughout the year, take inspiration from nature and consider seasonal blooms for your wedding day. Once you have chosen your colour palette of petals, don’t forget all the opportunities you have to show off your beautiful flowers. Of course you will carry a bouquet down the aisle, but will you choose a simple hand-tied bunch of your favourites, or a cascading bouquet with flowing flowers? Other options include teardrop designs, a basket of freshly cut stems, an arm bouquet or a simple, single stem accentuated by beads, diamante or ribbon. As you choose, consider your
pretty petals
theme, the overall ‘look’ you wish to achieve and, perhaps most importantly, what will make you feel the most comfortable as you walk to meet your soon-to-be husband.
the ends of pews or rows of chairs, which dresses the room beautifully. Remember that your flowers can always be moved to the reception venue, so that you can make the very most of your perfectly designed displays.
Match your own bouquet to those of your bridesmaids and the bridal party, not forgetting the buttonholes. And then think about the flowers you would like at your wedding venue. A dramatic arch of flowers around the door that you enter through gives a stunning first impression for your friends and family (and your future husband if he turns around to look!).
Table centres can be tailored to your exact wishes from elegant and tall vases to fish bowls with floating petals. Big displays make a grand statement, but remember that it will be difficult for your guests to talk through them. And make sure you don’t block out the view of the top table, as all eyes will be on the blissful newlyweds!
Many brides also choose big vases full of flowers, and smaller displays for
Flowers can be incorporated into every aspect of your day; with your hairstyle, wedding car, thank you bouquets and even adorning your cake. So make the most of your pretty petals for a fantastically floral celebration. 27
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the look of love 28
the look of love
We are completely in love with the 2016 Jenny Packham bridal collection; inspired by Shakespeare’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’, we can picture these stunning gowns against our dramatic coastal views…
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the look of love
“I know a bank where the wild thyme blows, Where oxlips and the nodding violet grows, Quite over-canopied with luscious woodbine, With sweet musk-roses and with eglantine.” In Shakespeare’s fairy realm the natural world in all its beauty and abundance is enhanced and glorified, under the rule of their ethereal and willful queen, Titania. Inspired by this enchanted kingdom and the characters of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the 2016 Collection features celestial silk tulles, romantically sculptured corsetry and cascading silk chiffon. Appliqué organza blooms, majestic ostrich feathers, crystal foliage motifs and delicate floral lace celebrate the lavish artistry of nature: opulent velvet bows add texture and hues of soft meadow green evoke the shades of summer. Swarovski crystals dance in the light adding an otherworldly, whimsical grace to a collection inspired by a midsummer dream and a fairy queen.
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the wedding planner
your wedding guide He’s popped the question! After the tears of joy, screams of delight as you tell your best friends, and dizzying daydreams of your big day, it’s time to think about the details. The date, the venue, the decorations, the food, the guest list… there’s plenty to consider in the run up to your wedding.
Sidmouth Harbour Hotel has experienced in-house wedding co-ordinators, perfectly positioned to give advice and help make arrangements for your wedding day. With years of valuable experience specific to each venue, they can recommend trusted suppliers, help you make the most of every aspect of the venue, and suggest options you may never have considered!
Your initial meeting is the perfect opportunity to establish how much or little you would like your planner to help with. From there she will help keep your plans on track to deliver your dream day. We’ve put together the following helpful wedding guide to ensure a stress-free build up to the big day!
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weddings in the south magazine // sidmouth edition
do it now… • Pick a date and pay your deposit. This secures your chosen package, guideline number of guests and evening food choice • Confirm wedding date and ceremony time with the local registrar or minister • Make a first draft of your guests list • Inform your wedding co-ordinator if you may require some family rooms to be held at the Hotel for your wedding night
6-12 months before the big day • Send out your save the date cards • Book your photographer and videographer • Start thinking about your cake • Order any invitations and other stationery e.g. chair covers • If you are having your ceremony elsewhere start to think about your wedding car • Choose your florist and discuss ideas
6 months to go… • Pay your interim deposit • Ensure all wedding invitations are ready to be sent out
3 months to go… • Meet with your wedding co-ordinator to confirm final details… menu choice, chair covers, flowers, photographer, cake, place cards, table names/ numbers, table plan, reception drinks, sparkling wine or Pimm’s for the toast
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the wedding planner
6-8 weeks and counting… • Finalise number of guests and pay your final balance • Start to gather your stationery together, ready to hand over for the big day! • Collect some shoe boxes (1 per table) so that all stationery can be kept together (place cards, favours, menu cards, table name, scatter pieces etc). • You may wish to take a picture of how you want to have your tables set up
3 weeks to go… • Keep your wedding co-ordinator informed of any last minute changes and arrange a stationery handover
5 working days prior… • Sign and return the final copy of your details to your wedding co-ordinator
the day before! • Meet with your wedding coordinator and operations manager, who will be running the day, to talk through your timeline in full • Finally, get a good night’s sleep…relax, enjoy and have a fantastic wedding day!
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the finer details
the finer details You’ve set the date, booked the venue and bought the dress. But have you considered the intricate details that will make your wedding day perfectly personal?
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weddings in the south magazine // sidmouth edition
The finer details make a wedding extra special – a day that will stay in the memories of your guests long after the confetti settles. From the perfect chair covers that tie into your scheme, to chauffeured transport that makes you feel like royalty, you have limitless choices to create an utterly bespoke celebration. Have a look at these ideas for inspiration… ‘Save the date’ cards and invitations are the very first glimpse your guests will have of your magical day. You want to make a great impression and stunning stationery can say just as much as the message it delivers. The finer details make a wedding extra special – a day that will stay in the memories of your guests long after the confetti settles. From the perfect chair covers that tie into your scheme, to chauffeured transport that makes you feel like royalty, you have limitless choices to create an utterly bespoke 38
celebration. Have a look at these ideas for inspiration… ‘Save the date’ cards and invitations are the very first glimpse your guests will have of your magical day. You want to make a great impression and stunning stationery can say just as much as the message it delivers. Co-ordinating invitations with orders of service, menus and thank you cards, evokes understated sophistication and allows you as a couple to communicate your style and personality throughout the day (and beyond!). Your wedding gown is the princess-dress from your dreams, so on your wedding day make sure you feel every inch the Cinderella-bride. Glow from top-to-toe with pampered tresses adorned with a tiara, flowers or gleaming pearls.
the finer details
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the finer details
With your hair curled and perfectly pinned, your dress laced up and flower girls ready, it’s time to travel in style to meet your soon-to-be husband. Choose transport that matches your theme and makes your day magical - be that a sleek red and roaring Ferrari or classic and vintage Rolls-Royce. The wheels you choose have the power to turn heads and get your guests talking, so some couples choose something a little less conventional – why not arrive in a vintage VW camper van? The perfect arrival for this relaxed coastal setting.
elegance and luxury, transforming the humble chair from a practical place to sit, to an important part of your décor. Use organza or taffeta sashes to transform the venue into your own wedding wonderland, incorporating your chosen colour into every aspect of the decoration. Once your guests have cleared their plates, the cutting of the cake is a photo album favourite, and the cake itself the grand finale of your wedding breakfast. Although classically elegant white-icing tiers are ever popular and beautiful; many couples opt for cupcakes or even cakepops to carry their personality and theme through. We are lucky to have a host of fantastic suppliers on our doorstep here in Sidmouth, with all of the finishing touches to make your day truly original.
If you really want to wow your guests when they enter your reception chair covers add instant
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coastal calm Sidmouth Harbour Hotel is set to welcome a luxury new ‘harbour spa’….
Image featured is the Harbour Spa at our Salcombe Harbour Hotel & Spa
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coastal calm
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weddings in the south magazine // sidmouth edition
Recently described by Harper’s Bazaar magazine as “world-class”, the Harbour Spa brand has been established across the Harbour Hotels Group and will not feature at our newly refurbished hotel. The new Harbour Spa will boast five treatment rooms, a fitness suite, indoor pool, hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room and wet room, perfect for top-to-toe pampering in the build up to your big day.
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With walls of glass to take in the stunning coastline views, the indoor swimming pool will feature immersed seats and a swimming jet for the more energetic. Climb out of the pool and head out onto the exclusive spa sun terrace, with views over the beautiful Red Cliffs. Guests will be able to warm the senses with a number of heat experiences, including sauna, steam room and unique wet room, with heated ceramic loungers, as you let the environment and tranquillity of this coastal retreat take over.
The hotel also features a spectacular heated outdoor pool for the summer months, complete with relaxing sun loungers to enjoy across your stay. Watch this space as we introduce Sidmouth’s most luxurious coastal spa…
coastal calm
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G N I M O C
! N O O S
I ND U L G E MIN D, BODY & SPIRIT
DR I F T AWAY IN T O SEASI DE S E R E N I TY AT S I DM OUT H HA R B O U R HO TE L & S PA Enter a world of pampering, luxurious treatments and tranquillity, with our Harbour Spa offering world renowned ESPA products and treatments, as well as our own Harbour Signature treatment. Treat yourself to an indulgent treatment, relaxing spa day, the ultimate spa break, or make full use of the Hotel and Spa facilities with a Harbour Spa Membership.
SIDMOUTH HARBOUR HOTEL & SPA MANOR ROAD, SIDMOUTH, DEVON EX10 8RU T: 08448 589186 E: sidmouth@harbourhotels.co.uk www.sidmouth-harbour-hotel.co.uk/spa
Tel: 01395 513252
www.sidmouth-harbour-hotel.co.uk Sidmouth Harbour Hotel, The Westcliff, Sidmouth, Devon EX10 8RU