Local property management and development company, Clearwater Developments, has renovated an apartment complex in the coastal town of Seaham, some of which are available to rent as holiday lets through holiday rental company, Host & Stay.

The coastal apartments are a welcome addition to the North East’s rapidly booming staycation sector and Portfolio North was invited to stay at the Seaham location.

Apartment 7 at North Quay Apartments sits within an apartment complex on the seafront in the heart of the post-industrial coastal town of Seaham. The building itself is owned and managed by Clearwater Developments, who have renovated the apartments to a high, modern standard.

Clearwater Developments are a prominent figure in the North East property scene, owning and managing a number of commercial and residential sites across the region. They work closely with local councils and associated regeneration teams to bring commercial, economic, and positive change to the areas they develop.

Before arrival, we were provided with a link to an online portal that provided information such as key codes, maps from different directions, information on the property such as heating and the television and how to enter the car park. Often when visiting a holiday home, you receive much of this information once you arrive, so it was nice to have full knowledge before reaching the property and made checking in much smoother.

The online portal included photos of the property and recommendations of things to do in the local area, as well as a space to leave a review after the stay.

Upon entering the apartment, you are greeted with a wide hallway with space to hang up coats, two double bedrooms, a bathroom with walk-in shower and a kitchen and living area. The space was large and bright and was decorated to a high standard.

The amenities in the property are all brand-new and very clean. There is an intercom for allowing access from downstairs, a television with Netflix and other streaming services, dishwasher, large fridge freezer and large wardrobe spaces.

The highlight was an electric fireplace in the living room which provided a cosy glow and plenty of warmth whilst watching films. There was also a stunning driftwood coffee table, providing a subtle nod to the coastal location.

The sea-facing bedroom was large with a double bed and a view of the seafront. In typical British fashion, it was rainy during our stay, but the sound of the sea as background noise was soothing and very relaxing.

The bed was comfortable and there was plenty of space to unpack, as well as blankets and soft lamps to add to the cosy element.

The bathroom included Anyah products that are environmentally friendly and kind to skin. The walk-in shower was clean and easy to use and there were plenty of towels, enough for the four guests that the apartment can accommodate.

As the apartment is in such a central location, it felt only right to enjoy some fish and chips from the neighbouring restaurant and enjoy a walk on the seafront. Seaham is a rapidly developing area since its days as a coal port and there is plenty to do, from combing for sea glass on the beaches, an ice cream at the parlour or a trip to the spa at Seaham Hall Hotel.

Supermarkets and the main shopping area were only yards away, ensuring everything you might need for your stay is very close by.

Dalton Park and Sunderland are also only a short drive away, should you wish to shop during the trip.

After a peaceful night’s sleep, we headed to nearby Nose’s Point on the Durham Heritage Coast for a walk and to learn about the area as a place of heavy industry followed by transformation into an environmental oasis.

Check-out was easy, as you return the keys to the locked key safe outside the front door of the apartment.

With a prime location and stunning views of the sea, the apartment was the perfect base from which to explore the local area and enjoy a night away. The decor and furniture were to a very high standard and it felt more like a hotel than an apartment. Clearwater Developments have produced high-quality apartments in a clean and secure building. The apartment was welcoming and cosy and was the ideal place for a staycation in the North East.