From New Faces to Old Friends: Curating a Magical Escape at Seaham Hall with Porter, Kevin Jackson
16 December 2024
From time to time, we all need a break from the chaos of everyday life.
Seaham Hall provides the perfect retreat when you are in need of rejuvenation. Whether you are a new face or an old friend Seaham Hall provides a magical escape, allowing you to switch off and sink into blissful relaxation. To understand how they create such a special experience, we had a conversation with porter, Kevin Jackson.
You have been working at Seaham Hall for 10 years now. What makes it so special?
Every day here truly feels unique. One moment, I’m greeting guests who are bursting with excitement for their stay, and the next, I’m catching up with familiar faces who’ve become like old friends. It’s a privilege to be part of their journey, whether it’s their first visit or their fiftieth. The joy comes from creating those lasting impressions—the ones that make Seaham Hall feel unforgettable. There’s something magical about being recognised by a guest and hearing, "It’s good to see you again, Kevin!" It reminds me why I love what I do.
What is your favourite thing about your job?
People come to Seaham Hall carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders. It’s amazing to see how their mood changes during their stay. From the moment they walk through our doors, I get to play a small part in helping them let go of life’s stresses and start to unwind. Seeing guests leave looking completely relaxed and rejuvenated—it’s a special kind of satisfaction. You never know what someone’s been through before they arrive, but knowing we’ve made their time here a little brighter is what keeps me going.
When is the best time of year to visit Seaham Hall?
Christmas, without a doubt! The entire hotel transforms into this warm, festive haven. The decorations are stunning—every corner sparkles, from the grand tree to the little touches that make the place feel so magical. Guests walk in and are immediately greeted by the crackle of the fire and the scent of Christmas in the air. The look on their faces when they see it all—it’s priceless. There’s something so enchanting about Seaham Hall during the holidays; it’s like stepping into a winter wonderland.
Do you have a favourite room or suite at the hotel?
Absolutely—Suite 21, the junior sea-view suite. It’s perched right at the top of the hotel, offering the most breathtaking views of the coastline. Watching the waves roll in from up there is something special. It’s the kind of place where you can sit, take it all in, and feel like the rest of the world doesn’t exist for a while.
What are three things every guest should do when staying at Seaham Hall?
- Spend time in our spa - It’s the ultimate escape, the pool, sauna, and treatments that leave our guests feeling like a brand-new person.
- Ask to see our wine cellar - It’s steeped in history and a fascinating peek into Seaham Hall’s heritage—plus, there’s always an interesting story or two I can share about it!
- Explore the beach and grounds - Whether you’re searching the shore for unique sea glass or walking our beautiful gardens, there’s so much natural beauty around.
Find out more about Seaham Hall, or plan a longer escape using our interactive map.
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