I tried out the UK’s first swim up bar – it was just like being on holiday
MOST people who want to enjoy a cocktail at a swim-up bar will be imagining a sunny stay in the Med or even the Caribbean.
But when I found out that a spa hotel just outside Stoke-on-Trent has opened with the UK’s first swim-up bar, I was intrigued.
I took the plunge and visited the Spa at Manor House in Alsager, east Cheshire, to find out if the great British weather would put a dampener on the experience or whether a holiday staple from sunnier climes could raise the bar for this spa.
As two frazzled mums of boys who keep us on our toes 24/7, we definitely needed a day of pure indulgence and relaxation, and that’s just what we got.
From the moment we arrived, it was clear that no corners had been cut when it came to maximising the spa experience.
A luxurious changing room led the way to the recently opened English spa garden.
Looking out over rolling countryside, the sauna and laconium both had large windows to bring the outside inside.
It was delightful being toasty warm indoors while making the most of the views of green fields and trees.
The heated outdoor pool, home to the swim-up bar, also had gorgeous views of the greenery, putting paid to any idea that you might be anywhere other than in the heart of the English countryside.
Heading indoors, we enjoyed an hour-long sound asleep massage, which was billed as having your body gently realigned and perfectly put back together again with warm orange and fennel oil.
Afterwards, we lounged in huge comfy chairs in the relaxation room, almost too chilled out to chat.
We shared a delicious veggie mezze with a glass of prosecco each for our lunch in the pool house, while other guests were tucking into a sumptuous afternoon tea, which was so plentiful that the ladies on the next table even offered us some of their cakes as they couldn’t eat another bite.
We were happy to oblige and the sweet treats were just as tasty as our savoury snack board of roasted camembert, marinated feta, hummus, Lebanese flatbread, melon, olives, mozzarella balls, stuffed vine leaves and peppers and cous cous.
A log burner in the centre of the pool house was keeping the chill of the day at bay and before we knew it, we’d spent an hour grazing. Now it was time to hit the pool.
The only criticism I can make about the swim-up bar is that you need to carry a credit card to buy a drink, which is easier said than done when you’re wearing just a swimming costume.
There were sofas nearby where we could drape our robes so we kept our cards and phones in the pockets, but it would be great if the bracelets that are used to access the spa and operate the lockers could also be used to pay.
However my Cosmopolitan was delicious and we certainly had holiday vibes wallowing in the warm water, sipping our drinks.
Part of the pool was covered by a see-through shelter to keep any rain off too.
An indoor pool was just as inviting, with a swing bed for two at one end and alcoves with built-in loungers along one wall.
Before we knew it, it was time to head off for the school run, but I would return in a heartbeat next time I need some me-time.
The whole spa was spotlessly clean and everyone working there was attentive and helpful.
I’m not surprised it’s a finalist in best boutique spa and best spa garden in the Good Spa Guide awards.
The swim-up bar spa is a wonderful way to while away a day in the UK if a trip to sunny shores is not on the cards.
We’ve rounded up some of the best tidal pools in the UK too.