A luxury hotel and spa in County Durham has been named as one of the UK's cosiest seaside stays for winter, according to The Times.

Seaham Hall in Seaham was featured in the list by the publisher, alongside the likes of Raithwaite Sandsend in Whitby and The Seafood Restaurant in Padstow, Cornwall.

Although summer is quickly becoming a distant memory, a trip to the coast during the colder months and festive season could still be the ideal getaway.

It might be too cold for a dip in the sea, but think toasty nights around a fire, after a walk along the beach wrapped up with a takeaway hot chocolate, not to mention the endless pretty pubs offering irresistible roast dinners.

Seaham Hall is one of the cosiest seaside stays to visit for winter

The Times commented: "This Georgian country house — 20 minutes’ drive south of Sunderland — is the perfect place to hunker down. Choose a contemporary Garden Suite or Coastal Lodge, for your own private hot tub, or splash out on the Ada Lovelace Suite, which has two slipper baths overlooking the grounds.

“To get a proper sea-fix, stroll along Seaham beach or follow the 11-mile Durham Coastal Path to Crimdon. Afterwards relax in the Serenity spa, which draws influence from Far Eastern healing rituals."

It adds: “Dishes made from ingredients grown, reared and foraged in Durham are served in the Dining Room (mains from £22) and there’s pan-Asian cuisine in the Ozone (mains from £19).”

B&B doubles are available from £292 via the Seaham Hall website.

Map showing 10 of the UK’s cosiest seaside stays

On Tripadvisor, Seaham Hall is also highly praised with a current rating of 5/5 out of 2,322 reviews.

One recent visitor wrote: “Had such an amazing time from the first minute we arrived to when we left.

“The room was so luxurious with a super comfy bed. The staff were amazing and the spa was well worth a visit. Also lovely to go for a stroll by the sea which is super close. Already booked to go again!”

Another posted: “Seaham Hall simply took us to another level of perfection with perfect venue, perfect facilities and perfect staff.

“Easily one of the most enjoyable experiences that either us have ever experienced. It provided total relaxation from start to finish.”