With schools back in full swing and the summer a distant memory, now is the time to take advantage of all that autumn has to offer, and by that we mean, me time.
You’ve earned it, all those days finding ways to entertain the kids, packing up the car for days out, picking them up from play dates and making sure the freezer is stocked high with ice pops – if summer has left you frazzled, we have the perfect pick me up.
Set amid 50 acres of gardens on an 1871 genteel Elizabethan estate, Hoar Cross Hall is a haven of relaxation and luxury, the ideal location to recharge your batteries, sooth your soul, and revitalise your senses. From sprawling gardens and manicured lawns to sophisticated cocktails in chic surroundings, opulent suites and refined dining, and of course, the simply mind blowing spa facilities, you may find yourself never wanting to leave.
Hoar Cross Hall is a Grade II listed building situated in 50 acres of countryside in Staffordshire, not far from The National Forest and about 30 minutes’ drive from Stafford.
The original Hoar Cross Estate comprised 490 acres and was bought for 18 pence in 1450 during Henry VI’s reign, fast forward a few hundred years and the Hall was purchased by William Bickerton-Jones and his wife Gwyneth in 1970 and it became their family home until 1989 when businessman Steve Joynes MBE bought the Hall and refurbished it, creating a new health spa, and in 2012, his son Steve took over the day-to-day running of the hall.
So here we are in 2021 and the lasting legacy of those that have contributed to the rich history of the hall is evident, even with the multi million pound refurbishment and current owners absolute commitment to contemporary and ever more sustainable luxury, there is an undeniable charm that can only come from the etchings of years gone by. You’ll see references to the past throughout the hotel, whether it be a painting off the long corridor, the meticulously restored wall paper in the grand ballroom or a sumptuous suite named after a previous resident – every detail is well thought out, curated and presented beautifully, it’s a hotel steeped in history with a distinctly modern attitude.
Step into reception and enjoy a sip of fizz as you are seamlessly greeted and transported into a weekend (or weekday) of absolute opulence. The staff here seem to float around unintrusively tending to your every need, before you know you need anything at all – thats the benchmark of excellent service and it prevails throughout at Hoar Cross whom invest in their people, train them well and treat them well – and it shows.
I spent 24 hours at Hoar Cross, a place that could more be described as a resort than simply a hotel. It’s a haven for wellbeing with a penchant for indulgence – go there and enjoy the gym, one of their huge range of exercise experiences, a detoxing smoothie or soothing spa treatment……..but while you’re at it, sip on copious cocktails, dig into a calorie loaded cream tea and cram in some serious sloth mode.
It’s really up to you what you do with your time at Hoar Cross, however healthy (or not so much) you want to be, there is an exceptionally enjoyable experience to be had.
Hoar Cross Hall Spa
This spa has more swag than Kim K, it’s all out, and I’m all in. Check out what’s on offer below;
Nordic Heat and Ice
Hydrotherapy Pool
Saltwater Pool
Aqua Massage
Detox Centre
The Atrium
Sanctum
Recline in the peaceful sanctum, as you cocoon in a hanging pod or daydream on a relaxation bed. With cosy lamps and sprawling sofas, it’s time to wrap up in your robe and bed down for the afternoon.Snooze Room
Drinking and Dining
Can you believe that lot? There is a huge amount on offer from the spa facilities alone at Hoar Cross Hall. However, if a bottle of wine and lunch with the girls is more your thing, or dressing up for dinner and sipping on Champagne in chic surroundings has you tempted, right this way….
Sleeping at Hoar Cross Hall
Sleep is for wimps – but if you really have to…..The rooms are incredible. You’ll sleep like a sloth. I’m not sure I need to add much more to that.
I will just mention however, if you can stretch to it, their HRH suite, which sleeps four, is utterly unbelievable. You can lounge in the lounge sipping drinks mixed by your own bartender and then slip into the hot tub on the veranda to enjoy a glass of Champagne whilst taking in panoramic views of the stunning grounds. It even boasts it’s own treatment room if you fancy relaxing like a rockstar in the privacy of your own suite. BOOM.
It’s difficult to encapsulate all that Hoar Cross Hall is, it’s an immersive experience that combines all you could ever want from a luxury hotel and spa, but on steroids. The facilities are second to none, but it’s the people that really make it fabulous. The team are invested, interested and inconspicuously impeccable at service. Its one of the very best hotels I have ever visited and as such, I’m heading back next month with some of my pals to live it up for the weekend. See you there superstar?
Tell them I sent you.
Words By Joanne Brook-Smith
Hoar Cross Hall Spa Hotel, Maker Lane, Hoar Cross, Burton upon Trent, Staffordshire, DE13 8QS
01283 576522 – Lines are open Monday to Friday: 9am – 6:30pm
9am – 4:30pm Saturday and Sunday.
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