Total relaxation at Staffordshire spa, Moddershall Oaks

What a treat to have a night away with my sister Monica, chilling, chatting and enjoying the luxury of a spa break.

Moddershall Oaks near Stone was the perfect location – a combination of modern and converted buildings make up a venue that’s totally geared up to relaxing body and mind. And while it’s easy to get to, once there you feel you’re miles from anywhere, deep in the countryside with beautiful green fields all around.

We arrived on a glorious autumnal Sunday afternoon, and were greeted by friendly staff, who welcomed us with a bellini.

Our room was cosy and decorated in a simple, classy style, and best of all had big windows showing off the lush countryside beyond. Still, no time to admire the view, we had important relaxing to do so headed off to explore.

The spa facilities are at either end of the complex with the pool and steam room on one side and the hot tub and sauna at the other. As we walked through from one to another, we smelled wafts of gorgeous essential oils from the treatment rooms where we were booked in for the next day.

We especially liked the hot tub area as it was outside, where we could enjoy the golden afternoon. We relaxed in the sauna, which has windows looking out onto the grounds, and enjoyed kicking back in the hot tub. Next to this outdoor area is a cosy lounge for relaxing, and when I say cosy I really mean it. Fluffy throws, sumptuous sofas and, best of all, a log fire. Five minutes in there and I’d virtually lost the ability to leave a seated position, I was so warm and unwound.

Back to our room to put our feet up (again) and find out who was in the dance-off on Strictly, then off for dinner in the restaurant. Thanks to a conversation in the steam room with someone who had already eaten there, I was tempted by the Chicken Supreme. Not something I would normally have ordered but with a recommendation I thought I’d give it a go and was glad I did. It was so tender and delicious. Mon had a steak, which also went down well.

The next day we had two treats in store. Firstly we had the chance to try out a barre class at the new Made Wellness Centre on site and then some treatments. Oh, there was another treat, a lovely, big cooked breakfast which, try as I might, is a thing I cannot turn down. I probably should have eased up on it ahead of my exercise class, but I will never be that person.

I’d been keen to try one of these ballet-style classes, but had never found one near me, so I was pleased to give it a go here. Our teacher was delightfully encouraging as she put us through our paces – a great workout for the legs and feet especially. The venue has numerous other classes including a variety of yoga styles, bootcamps, HIIT, barbells, dance fitness and many, many more options. Plus it’s got a nice airy café where you can get a healthy snack and a drink after your workout.

Next up were the treatments. I had the Yuzu, Beetroot and Watermelon Scrub and Back Massage Combo, which is a 55-minute treatment. The fruit-and-veg-inspired products smelled heavenly and my skin was well and truly buffed. It reminded me of a hammam, where you emerge with a whole new level of cleanliness and exfoliation. This was followed by the best bit – the massage. This was really firm, as requested, and did an excellent job of pushing out all the tension that had built up in my shoulders, back and legs. Mon had the Elemis Couture Touch, which included a hot stone massage and a facial. The products used were tailored to her needs and she came out feeling relaxed and refreshed and felt it was the best facial she’d ever had.

Some more lounging and a light lunch in the bar, and we reluctantly accepted that it was time to leave. What a relaxing 24 hours it was!

A spa day at Moddershall Oaks costs £85 and a Serenity Spa Day with treatment and lunch is £115. There are also other offers available with different treatments ranging up to £165. A Simply Spa Break, staying overnight at the spa and including dinner and breakfast starts from £295. Visit moddershalloaks.com for more information on prices and offers.