A hidden oasis for visitors looking for a peaceful and indulgent getaway 

Highlights

• Spa with heated outdoor vitality pool
• Himalayan Salt Shed Experience
• A range of essential oil-infused saunas

• Swim-up pool bar
• Traditional and cosy yet contemporary rooms
• Stunning vistas of Cheshire’s lush landscapes

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The Manor House Hotel and Spa Alsager

When booking a spa and hotel retreat, relaxation is top of the agenda. And with a serene spa, luxurious amenities and peaceful surroundings, The Manor House Hotel and Spa, Alsager, provides just that.

Originally built as a 17th-century farmhouse, the venue is nestled amidst the charming countryside of Cheshire and boasts 53 elegant bedrooms, a well-equipped spa, an indoor pool, a gym, and a locally renowned restaurant.

Upon arrival, the premises, which backs onto fields but is located on a residential street, looked largely unassuming and we weren’t too sure what to expect. But after walking into the vast and bright reception area adorned with skylights and cosy sofas, reservations quickly disappeared.

The Rooms

Rating: 5/5

Guests can choose from up to seven room types, spanning deluxe king rooms right through to “cosy” rooms for solo travellers, as well as four-poster executive suites. Accessible rooms with disabled access and facilities, such as a wet room, are also available. 

We stayed in a Superior King, a roomier choice that features a king-sized bed, a plush suede sofa and a TV, all adorned with tasteful and elegant decor. Textured fabrics are thoughtfully integrated throughout, paying homage to the heritage of the Manor House and the traditional charm associated with the countryside.

Textured fabrics are thoughtfully integrated throughout, paying homage to the heritage of the Manor House and the traditional countryside charm

Dark wooden furniture and regal patterns, complemented by crisp white sheets and a modern bathroom provide a harmonious blend of classic meets contemporary aesthetic. 

The bathroom is equipped with everything you need, from fluffy white towels and a dressing gown to a selection of aromatic shower gels, shampoos, and conditioners by Temple Spa. A hairdryer and ironing facilities are also available, and some rooms come with a Nespresso coffee machine. 

Overall, the space felt classic and comfortable, providing a perfect haven for a relaxing stay.

The Spa

Rating: 4/5

Reaching completion after a 12-month redevelopment at the end of 2022, the indoor spa and outdoor spa garden still feel brand new.

The English country garden theme boasts a range of unique experiences, including the UK’s first swim-up spa bar. The pool house is adjoined to the large outdoor heated vitality pool, which is enhanced by stunning vistas of the manicured grounds. 

A hydrotherapy tub is set within a sunken garden peppered with lavender and rosemary beds. Several more experiences can be found in various wooden sheds, including a salt steam inhalation chamber, a herbal sauna, and an icy cool plunge bath. 

The Pavillion is a highlight – a summer house heated up to 40C with panoramic views of Cheshire’s lush landscapes, offering the perfect place to unwind and soak in the serenity of the surroundings.

Guests can also book the unique Salt Shed Experience, a 40C chamber infused with Himalayan salt and essential oils, which can include guided meditation for an additional fee. This experience is crafted to support respiratory health, nurture the skin, and improve mental well-being.

Staying awake can feel like a mean feat; we left feeling present though somewhat disorientated. It’s definitely something to try if you’re interested in practising mindfulness, but the experience is led by a recording rather than an in-person guide. With a price of £15pp, a more personalised guidance or interactive element would have enhanced the experience.

In addition, there are three treatment rooms providing a menu of rejuvenating, decadent body and face treatments from British Spa brands Tribe517 and Temple Spa. We opted for the Signature Tribe517 Pure Salt Grain Massage – an invigorating full body scrub, and the Champagne and Truffles Deluxe Treatment which included a a luxury facial. 

The skilled therapists are experts in their craft, customising each treatment to give you the most out of it. The scent of lavender fills the air and soft background music, sets the perfect mood. 

Overall, the vibe of the spa was exactly what you’d look for in a chilled retreat. Our visit fell on a Saturday and while it was busier than we initially expected, it didn’t feel crowded. But there was a diverse range of people, showing the spa can cater to all manner of parties, from a  romantic couple’s retreat to groups celebrating birthdays, hen dos and more.  

Dining and drinking

Rating: 4/5

Located towards the rear end of the beautifully restored Manor House, The Stables Restaurant and Grill combines modern comfort with traditional charm. 

Stepping inside, the ambience feels cosy. The decor features a harmonious blend of rustic elements and contemporary design, creating a welcoming and visually pleasing space. Wooden beams, soft lighting, and tasteful furnishings complete the overall appeal. 

The menu at The Stables offers a range of dishes with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and seasonal produce. From steaks cooked on the grill and delectable desserts to innovative vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.

However, while the vegetarian and vegan options were more imaginative than what some establishments typically offer, there were only two mains catering to this diet on the menu and a little more variety in this area would have been welcomed. 

While spa guests are invited to have lunch in the pool house, there is also an option to have afternoon tea on the grounds of the garden. The experience comes with a selection of sandwiches, cakes, scones and savoury snacks suitable for meat and plant-based diets. The sandwiches were fairly basic, however, the sweet options were rich and creative and certainly made up for it. 

The swim-up spa bar was a serious highlight, offering a tempting array of delicious mocktails and cocktails, carefully crafted by warm and welcoming staff. 

Amenities

• Adults-only spa
• Large indoor serenity pool 
• Heated outdoor vitality pool
• Finnish sauna
• Aromatherapy steam room
• Hydrotherapy tub
• Restaurant

• Salt steam inhalation chamber 
• Potting sauna shed and plunge bath
• Stunning outdoor seating areas to relax
• Indoor gym
• WiFi
• Room service (restricted hours)
• Robes, slippers, flipflops and towels

Location

Rating: 4/5

Despite its tranquil setting, the Manor House Spa is accessible from nearby towns and cities in Cheshire if you have a car, making it a hidden oasis for both locals and visitors looking for a peaceful and indulgent getaway. 

While it feels well-connected, it’s worth nothing the hotel and spa are far on foot from anywhere else so those hoping to explore Cheshire are better off with a car.

The resort is located close to the M6 and within driving distance of Stoke-on-Trent. For those using public transport, it’s just a 10-minute walk away from Alsager train station.

Visitors looking to venture into Alsager can expect a range of amenities. You’ll find everything from charming country pubs and quaint, local boutiques to restaurants boasting a range of cuisines. Speaking with locals, Indian Heaven seemed to be a go-to, located on the high street a short walk away. 

Value For Money

Rating: 4/5

The lead in room price starts from £71pp. Bed and breakfast spa breaks start from £249pp for a one-night stay, which includes a welcome drink, a 60-minute spa treatment, seven hours in the Spa Garden, a dinner in The Stables restaurant and breakfast. 

Half-day spa experiences start from £75pp for 240 minutes use of the spa and garden and come with access to the Salt Shed Experience and an English Garden Mocktail. Full-day spa experiences start from £80pp and depending on the package you opt for, people can enjoy discounted spa treatments, free lunch platters and a mocktail.

Getaways can be booked directly via The Manor House Hotel and Spa website, or guests can compare deals using Booking.com or SpaBreaks.

Final Verdict

The Manor House Spa in Alsager is a hidden gem that offers an exceptional and rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. 

From the moment you step through the doors into the quiet and open reception area to the moment you leave, the serene and revitalising experience lingers long after your visit.

With a well-equipped garden spa framed by stunning field views, an award-winning restaurant with a diverse and locally sourced menu, stylish and comfortable bedrooms, a compact yet comprehensive gym, and a gentle emphasis on holistic wellness, the experience promises a seamless fusion of tranquillity, comfort and well-being. 

However, select experiences aren’t included in the price, which means guests have to shell out extra for key treatments such as the salt shed. 

With this added cost in mind, while the salt shed was relaxing, the session featured a pre-recorded guided meditation – something you may not expect having paid extra for the experience. 

Nevertheless, from the breathtaking views of the countryside to the charming historical touches, the resort offers an experience that is as memorable as it is refreshing. It’s a place where time slows down and you feel truly cocooned from the outside world. 

Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a relaxing spa weekend, or a special celebration, The Manor House caters to all needs with its exceptional service, creating an unforgettable experience for its guests. 

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