Total
BODY BLISS
Louise Prance visited Warwickshire’s Ardencote Spa, where she experienced total body bliss and a weekend of wellness…
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ocated in Warwickshire, Ardencote Spa is easily accessible for a spa day or weekend away, however, upon arriving down the leafy drive, you feel a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Set in 83 acres of landscaped gardens, Ardencote is a modern hotel and destination spa offering everything needed for a weekend of wellness after the big day. A pool, treatment rooms,18-hole golf course, leisure facilities, tennis courts and a restaurant and bar await for a blissful UK-based honeymoon. Upon arrival my partner and I were shown to our sizeable, wellequipped room, one of 110 at the hotel, that overlooked the stunning outdoor pool and jacuzzi. After settling in, this was exactly where we headed first. Whilst the weather was on the cold side for the pool, the temperature of the jacuzzi was just right for a lengthy soak, glass of fizz in hand. Not much could have dragged us away from this lap of luxury, but a full body massage was calling and much needed. Of all the massages I’ve had, this one was up there and highly recommended. If the jacuzzi float had left any aches and pains, the massage certainly rid me of any further niggles! Furthering our relaxation, we induldged in the many spa rooms, including the Himalayan salt sauna, and after final dip in the atmospheric indoor pool the sun loungers were just perfect for whiling away the hours with a good book or post-wedding reminiscing. Feeling a world away from the stresses of everyday life, we enjoyed a luxurious afternoon nap on the sumptuous bed, before getting ready for a delicious dinner at the 1 Rosette Brasserie, which complements the existing and ever-popular Conservatory Bar. I was treated to a delicious vegan burger, while my companion enjoyed a mouth-watering tagine, of course polished off with sizeable desserts. Heading to the bar for a night cap, the aura of calm permeates every aspect of Ardencote and it wasn’t long before we took ourselves to bed,
feeling fully rested, content and peaceful. After a leisurely lie-in the next morning, we headed down for breakfast before another dip in the pool and a stroll around the extensive grounds. If you’re so inclined, you can take part in racket sports tennis, squash and racquetball or table tennis, or take in a round of golf ‒ the winddown options are endless.
AN ILLUSTRIOUS HISTORY Ardencote dates back to 1863, when it was built as the dowry house for Mary the daughter of Thomas Phillips, a wool manufacturer from Manchester. Having passed through many hands, and having undergone many extensions and updates since then, the beautiful estate was purchased by local entrepreneur Mr Huckerby in 1996. The Huckerby family still retains ownership, making Ardencote a truly family-run, independent hotel.
BOOK IT! Ardencote Hotel & Spa 01926 843 111 www.ardencote.com
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