Pamper in Pairs

Mary Jane Greenhalgh reviews The Midland Hotel

The Midland hotel luxury spa in Manchester is a hidden gem. You leave the crowds, queues, the hustle and bustle at street level and head down to an astonishingly calm space where my to-do lists and jobs suddenly melted away. This a perfect place to escape for an hour, a day or weekend with the shimmering décor and gorgeous lighting. One of the highlights of the spa is the sumptuous relaxation room with hanging pods, soft cocooning chairs, armchairs and three beds with luxury duvets and pillows. The wet facilities include a 9-metre relaxation pool, hot tub, sauna and steam room. This really is a haven of calm, and I felt thoroughly relaxed from the moment I arrived and left feeling I had been there for much longer than just 3 hours.

The Double up Spa day makes a visit for couples, friends or colleagues ideal. As part of the treatment, I chose a mindfulness sleep massage which included a fantastic massage and facial and a guided meditation session. The therapist was superb, and you are given the option taking your treatment in the same room or in different rooms- it’s a nice idea to get massages side by side if you go with your significant another half. I was so relaxed I almost drifted off. After warming my body with hot stones, my therapist then massaged away the tension from my tight shoulders then I was treated to a mini facial. I opted for the light lunch option instead of afternoon tea and had a bowl of soup, a small sandwich and salad to round off the selection. The lunch was a lovely way to finish off the morning, and it was simple and tasty but packed with nutrients and flavour - indulgent but health. This package is great if you have a half day or even just a few hours as I did to unwind and enjoy all the facilities. There are good hair dryers and straighteners in the lovely changing rooms so you can return back to your day looking groomed.

Also of note is a well-equipped gym that I nipped in to for 30 minutes before the massage. The entire package can be done in three hours, or you can stay longer and make the most of it. You don’t need to go far to really unwind and get some zen.

Treat a friend or loved one to the ultimate spa experience which includes a 30-minute Rasul treatment for two, a 55-minute spa treatment of your choice, a glass of champagne and a delicious light lunch or afternoon tea.

Double Up Spa Day, £119pp (Monday - Thursday), £139pp (Friday - Sunday)

themidlandhotel.co.uk

The Midland, 16 Peter Street, Manchester, M60 2DS

t: 0161 236 3333