Yahoo News I visited Ramside Spa in Durham to take a dip in the brand new cold plunge pool
When the opportunity came up to head to Ramside Spa and try their brand new cold plunge pool, I jumped at the chance. I had never previously been to a spa before so I was eager to see what it was like, and I also wanted to make the most of the access we had and have a relaxing time.
When I arrived, I was graciously greeted by the reception staff who gave me a wristband and led me to the changing rooms, where I got changed into my swimming shorts. I then headed to the outdoor area first, trying out the pool and taking advantage of the hot weather.
When I headed back in after sitting in the sun, I tried out a couple of the main pools, a more traditional one for swimming, and a second which has a seated area and fountain in the middle. It was then time for me to head for the main event, the cold plunge pool, which I was simultaneously nervous and excited for.
I was told to control my breathing as the cold would hit me rapidly first, and then become less severe as I stayed in for longer. I made my way up the steps and even from just sticking one toe in I could feel my temperature drop.
I stepped further in and eventually, when I was feeling brave enough, I sat down, with the water getting up to just below my shoulders. In my last act of defiance against the elements, I dunked my head and shoulders in, feeling a fresh wave of chills which eventually subsided.
A great way to get your temperature up after doing a plunge pool or any sort of cold water treatment, is to spend some time in a sauna or steam room, so that's what I did next. This was a welcome change after how cold I had just been, and was one of the most relaxing parts of the day.
After this, I decided to head for a 25 minute back massage to work off some of the tension and tightness that I had been feeling, and with this being my first ever massage, I was looking forward to it. Jess, the masseuse, was amazing, and she made sure to talk me through the process, while delivering a great massage which left me feeling so much better.
Whilst I was up on this higher floor, I headed to the infinity pool, which had amazing views of the Durham countryside. This was an amazing way to soothe myself after the massage and I felt very relaxed in this moment.
My final stop was for food in the adjoining Fusion restaurant, which served some gorgeous Thai food. I really enjoyed both my starter, a portion of vegetable spring rolls, and my main, a sublime crispy hoisin duck wrap.
Overall, the time I was at Ramside Spa was amazing, I couldn't have asked for a better experience and the staff were all very friendly and chatty with patrons which seemed to be really well received. My time in all of the swimming pools was great, even the plunge pool felt very rewarding afterwards.
The massage was incredible and even as I sit writing this, my back feels so much more relaxed and less tense. The food was amazing too and I would thoroughly recommend the experience, something which I feel very grateful to have been able to do.
