Hotel of the week
Moddershall Oaks, near Stone, Staffordshire
WHERE AND WHY From celebrating a friend’s new job to enjoying a romantic weekend away with my partner, I’m a self-confessed spa addict and any excuse will do to head off for a pamper.
Nestled in the Staffordshire countryside, purpose-built retreat Moddershall Oaks feels like a true getaway but is handily situated close to the M6 and Stoke-on-trent railway station.
Our impressive bedroom suite – there are 10 in total, ranging from studios like ours to the master – was understated and luxurious, with underfloor heating, a lounge area and a private deck overlooking a hot tub for use by the spa’s overnight guests.
But my pal and I, who were enjoying a bit of R&R away from our toddlers, headed straight for the heated outdoor pool courtyard, which has to be the retreat’s piece de resistance.
We were lucky enough to visit in the snow and ordered fizz from the tub while soaking up the winter wonderland that lay before us.
There is a big indoor spa area too but after a quick poolside sauna we instead headed for the relaxation lounge, where we ordered deluxe hot chocolates and nabbed a chaise longue each.
After a great night’s sleep I enjoyed a Glass Beauty Facial, exfoliating and hydrating my dull, exhausted skin with the pretty scent of orange blossom. With check in at 3pm on the day of arrival, after breakfast the next day you’re able to stay at the spa until late afternoon.
The other clientele were couples and groups of friends but while the spa was fully booked when we visited, it never felt busy.
By the end of our stay, Moddershall Oaks had risen straight to the top of my five-star spa list.
ON THE MENU
We enjoyed dinner (included in our overnight package) in The Oak House Restaurant, which overlooks a lake. I plumped for the roasted chicken breast and a prawn cocktail starter.
Breakfast was first rate – I went for the full English and my friend tried the eggs Florentine. While you dress up in the evening, breakfast can be enjoyed in dressing gowns, which we loved. For lunch, we had a Deli Board (£15) in the spa deli overlooking the outdoor pool.
WHILE YOU’RE THERE Hire bikes and head out into 72 acres of parkland. Try a fitness class (chargeable) at the MADE wellness centre behind the spa. Make time for a snooze in the device-free Sleep Lounge, complete with fire pit and dimmed lighting.
WAKE-UP CALL Spa days from £100pp, spa breaks are from £175pp. moddershalloaks.com