Stanley House Hotel & Spa
What? An understated country Lancashire hotel with spa sense and sophistication.
We were taken away by the designer spa concept, where natural light shines in by day through the hydro suite’s floor-to-ceiling glass wall and is filled with hues of calming blue against a starry-lit ceiling by night. A small but perfectly formed thermal bath with bubble jets and relaxation area, it has a u-shaped enclave that opens up to various therapy chambers detailing the usage rules and benefits of each one on a plaque outside, ranging from Finnish and Herbal Sauna naturally scented with sweet star anise, to Salt Therapy Infusion Room, Aroma Steam Room, Cooling Ice Fountain and a series of Tropical Sensation Showers.
There’s even the chance to stretch out at the new pilates studio, packed with brand new state of the art equipment. Following the STOTT PILATES® method, a contemporary approach to the original exercise, highly trained instructor, Christine, puts you through the paces with strong posture and poise. We also highly recommend dining on the delicious menu available at the hotel’s The Grill on The Hill restaurant. The mastermind behind it is Head Chef Andrew Parker (previously of Harvey Nichols’ Bar and Brasserie).
Best For: All types of ‘spa-cationers’ would be well looked after here but we highly recommend the spa facility for visitors of two. I.e. couples, a mother and daughter, or friends.
Treatments We Love: Natura Bisse and Ila (a highly indulgent and pure, organic British beauty range whose namesake means ‘earth’) are the big brands available and there are a number of choices to make. We suggest opting for the one hour Ila Energising and Detoxifying Body Scrub combined with the 25 minute Head Massage and Hair Mask. This firm body polish works deeper to target cellulite, stress and exhaustion, as well as sloughing away surface dead skin cells, stimulating the lymphatic system, aiding in circulation and eliminating toxins. Using the same Himalayan salt, revitalising acupressure techniques help release fatigue and tension, while a vitamin enriched hair mask works wonders at nourishing, strengthening and thickening the hair. Each treatment room also offers a clear view of the rural landscape outside, as well as your choice of music and lighting to suit your mood.
www.stanleyhouse.co.uk