Shropshire Star

Moddershall Oaks Country Spa Retreat, Stone - travel review

Lounging in glorious sunshine, sipping on a cool drink, taking an occasional dip in a heated spa pool and enjoying a chat with an old mate. It doesn't get much better than this.

Published
The outside pool

Booking a rare day's holiday from work a friend and I decided to go all out on the relaxation front and visit a spa for the day.

Despite living quite close it was the first time we had visited Moddershall Oaks. And we were left wondering how we had managed to miss this little piece of heaven.

Set in the Staffordshire countryside it seemed like a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

First impressions were that it appeared to be quite small, but the warm welcome was huge as we were shown to a table and offered a glass of bucks fizz to kick of the day in style.

And as the day progressed we realised some of the best things do indeed come in small packages.

After filling in the requisite forms and finishing our drinks, we were given a guided tour.

The place is definitely more compact than other spas we have been to, but nothing was missing. There the indoor pool, hydrotherapy pool, footbaths, various showers, a steam room, heated loungers, a relaxation area, a gym, everything we could want. And outside there are huge grounds to explore on foot or on two wheels.

The added advantage, particularly given the glorious weather was the outdoor area with the heated pool and sauna - and the friendly bar staff taking drinks orders so as not to interrupt our time in the sun.

But before we found our way to this area, the most popular spot in the place, we grabbed our robes - luxuriously soft and thick, made of velour rather than towelling - and headed for the indoor pool.

After an extremely leisurely morning we made our way down to the restaurant for our pre-ordered lunch. The pate starter was absolutely delicious as were the fishcakes and the steak baguette. Doing nothing clearly helped us work up a fair appetite!

Afterwards we ventured outside, next to the pond - a delightful outside area.

Back indoors it was time for my treatment. The Elemis Couture Touch at £75 for 55 minutes or £130 for 115 minutes, sounded like it was everything rolled into one; a personalised facial followed by a massage of your choice.

The therapist listened carefully to all my ailments and requests and resolved to do what she could to help me out.

A full massage followed by a facial with delightfully-scented potions and creams and I came out feeling like a new person.

We then headed outside for the highlight of the afternoon. It seemed that everyone at the spa that day was gathered around the outdoor pool; there was a lovely sociable relaxed atmosphere as everyone chatted, including the staff as they brought the drinks out, including cocktails, smoothies and of course a nice cup of tea.

The time flew and unfortunately our say was over all too soon - next time we'll check in for the weekend.

FACT BOX INFO

Moddershall Oaks offers a selection of spa packages from evenings to short breaks, with prices ranging from £85 to £650.

There is a whole range of treatments to choose from during your stay.

Contact details:

Moddershall Oaks Country Spa Retreat,

Moddershall, Near Stone,

Staffordshire, ST15 8TG.

01782 399000

enquiries@moddershalloaks.com

Opening Hours

Monday – Friday: 8am – 8pm

Saturday – Sunday: 9am – 5pm