Sip, Soak, Repeat
Nestled in the charming village of Alsager, East Cheshire, just a quick detour from the M6, lies one of the UK’s most talked-about spa destinations: Manor House Alsager. This 17th-century farmhouse has undergone a thoughtful transformation into an award-winning escape with 52 character-filled bedrooms, state-of-the-art spa and wellness facilities, and a hospitality ethos that radiates warmth and excellence
A Spa That’s Raising the Bar
The English Country Garden-inspired spa, launched in late 2022, has quickly made its mark on the wellness map – scooping up Best Luxury Garden Spa in Europe and Best Luxury Countryside Spa in the UK at theWorld Luxury Awards. It also landed a coveted place in The Times’ 2024 list of 50 Best Spa Hotels, with a near-perfect spa rating of 9/10.
The showstopper? The Secret Garden Spa – a 36 sqm haven with 18+ sensory experiences ranging from a swim-up bar to hanging day beds with personal heaters, the spa is equal parts serene and spectacular. If contrast therapy is your thing, there’s even a chilling Plunge Bath – though we’ll admit, we happily skipped that part…
Midweek Magic:
Wellness Without the Wait
Manor House makes a solid case for pressing pause midweek with their thoughtfully curated short stays:
• Time Out Tuesday – Arrive from 4pm, indulge in spa time, then feast on a three-course supper with wine before drifting off in one of the dreamy guest rooms. The following morning brings a hearty English breakfast and more spa lounging until 1pm. Midweek never looked (or felt) so good. From £319.
• Wind Down Wednesday – Start early with spa access from 10am, a choice of light and luxe lunches (mezze, seafood platters, afternoon tea… yes please), then a delicious three-course dinner with house wine. The experience rolls into Thursday with late-morning spa access to ease you back into reality. From £399.
Our Stay:
Pure Bliss in Every Detail
We checked in on a sun-drenched mid-June afternoon and were greeted with genuine smiles and seamless hospitality. Our Manor House King Room was a calming, nature-inspired space – designed with relaxation in mind. Later, a Pure Salt Grain Massage set the tone for an evening of ultimate unwind, followed by Garden Spa explorations (yes to the swim-up bar with prosecco, no thank you to the icy plunge!).
As the sun set, we headed to Stables Restaurant – a celebration of locally sourced, seasonal produce, presented with flair. Every plate was thoughtfully balanced, and the Champagne more than delivered.
Morning brought a delicious breakfast and a couple of productive hours, catching up on our laptops in the lounge – soon to be refurbished, we’re told, which only adds to the evolving story of this gem.
The Vibe:
Mellow Beats & Summer Magic
Every Saturday in July and August, the English Spa Garden comes alive with laid-back DJ sets. Picture it: floating in the hydrotherapy pool, chilled rosé in hand, ambient music drifting through the air. Spa days, reimagined.
The Verdict
Manor House Alsager isn’t just a place you go to relax—it’s a place that makes you want to come back and bring your friends. From the intuitive service and beautiful interiors to the exceptional spa garden and memorable food, every element is curated with care and love.
A big thank you to the team – led by a talented brother-sister duo – who clearly understand not just hospitality, but what it means to create a soulful guest experience. We’ll absolutely be back.
The Manor House Hotel and Spa // Audley Road, Alsager, Cheshire ST7 2QQ
hello@manorhousealsager.com // +44 (0) 1270 884000
By Beverley Uddin-Khandakar
