Best spa for girls' getaways: Hoar Cross Hall, Staffordshire
First impressions Intimidatingly grand, as if you’ve entered a period drama (maze included). In sprawling acres of stunningly kept gardens, the hall unravels like a palace.
USP Sustainability. From 38C hot tubs to saunas, it’s all heated by a £1.5 million biomass system rather than boilers – and who doesn’t want to help the planet while treating themselves?
Spa lowdown There are three balmy outdoor pools, cold-water plunge pools, a Nordic heat and ice suite, indoor saltwater pool and hydrotherapy pool. Finally, a snooze room, which you’ll need after trying all those.
Book in for Elemis’ Expert Touch Renew Facial (60 minutes £100), which uses patented enzyme technology to reduce the appearance of your pores. It’s the only thing I’ve tried that actually helped those on my nose.
Room report The hotel, housed in the historic hall, has recently been refurbished with no expense spared. Our room had a rolltop bath and huge king-size bed, both looking over miles of Staffordshire greenery. It’s big (and comfy) enough to please even the fussiest of sleepers.
Bathroom goodies Heaps of treats by Voya, a seaweed-based organic skincare brand that aligns perfectly with the hotel’s eco-friendly focus.
Extracurricular activities For the adventurous, there are axe-throwing and archery classes in the surrounding woodland (£20 per person). More of a traditionalist? You’ll find there are tennis courts as well as a driving range and a gym with Peloton bikes.
On the menu The finest Midlands meat cuts. Each overnight stay includes a three-course dinner in the Ballroom, and meat-eaters must try the beef short rib, which is so soft you don’t need a knife. But first: cocktails from the 100-strong list in the Long Gallery Bar. If you’re feeling worse for wear in the morning, there’s an extensive hot and cold buffet to sort you out.
Hoar Cross Hall food includes smoked haddock and goat’s cheese fishcake, sweet potato and chive oil
Who should go Girls wanting a pampering day, with a few drinks and top grub thrown in.
Good for Activities. You couldn’t possibly try everything in a day, and that aside, the walk from the outdoor hot tubs to the inner relaxation sanctum kills a good 15 minutes.
Less good for Rarefied exclusivity. It’s a busy place, so prepare to use your elbows if you want a poolside cabana.
Cost One-night Purity Spa Stay from £199 per person (sharing); includes all meals and spa access.
For more information visit baronseden.com
Scarlett Dargan
