If you’ve read my blog before, you will know that I’m ridiculously spoiled when it comes to spa trips. Oh, the perks of being a hotel blogger, I suppose! So imagine my reaction when I was invited as the FIRST blogger to try out the brand new Fishmore Hall SPAshell Spa in Shropshire. What better way to celebrate my 3 years of blogging than to be their first blogger to try out their new hot tub and facilities!
It was arranged that I would visit on a Sunday, so a peaceful drive across the countryside to clear my head sounded like absolute bliss. As you can see from my car window photo, the hills were absolutely stunning. So beautiful in fact that I had to pull over to capture the shot, it’s not something I want to forget in a hurry. I drove through Kidderminster and once outside of there, the winding roads led me down into the countryside and over cattle grids until I reached Fishmore Hall. I was later told by the hotel owner, Laura Penman, that sheep have a tendency to roam across the roads on the drive to the hotel. Luckily, I didn’t hit any on route!
As soon as I stepped out the car I was mesmerised. The hotel overlooks the Shropshire countryside and is definitely the sort of place you’d want to book if you were looking for a quiet weekend getaway. What’s more, Fishmore Hall is only 1.3 miles away from the town centre so you can venture out without any hassle if you want to. The lodge is made from Siberian larch wood and perfectly blends into the countryside with it’s rustic feel. I really loved the ceiling to floor windows, because once inside you feel as though you’re in your own warm little bubble. The designers have carefully thought this out haven’t they?
With my swimsuit and camera in hand, I followed an elderly couple in through the front door of the hotel. In one corner I spotted a couple drinking tea and smiling at each other. They we’re obviously relaxed! The beautifully-restored Georgian house is a dog friendly hotel, although sadly I didn’t see any when I walked in. Fishmore Hall offers its guests 15 luxurious contemporary ensuite bedrooms and on first thoughts, it felt as though you were walking into a family home rather than a hotel. I’m used to staying in mainstream hotels so this was a complete change for me.
There was no time to waste as the owner spotted me walking in. Laura was so welcoming and allowed me to have a quick peek around the downstairs area before whisking me off for some relaxation time. Straight away I will tell you that the spa offers guests, both from the hotel and also walks ins, an extremely high standard of spa treatments. They use ELEMIS products which are coincidentally one of my favourite brands and they just smell so lush and clean. The therapists there are also SO welcoming and put you at ease from the moment you walk through the door. I was offered some water and we had a quick chat about my blog before being asked which treatment I would like to try. The neck and back massage screamed out to me and at this rate, I’m trying to have 1 at least every 2 weeks right now, I’m certainly not complaining.
I didn’t have to book an appointment on the day owing to reviewing purposes, but they encourage guests and visitors to book SPAshell appointments beforehand to save time. The treatments range from back and neck massages, Elemis facials ranging from £65-£75 per treatment, to manicures and pedicures. They’re a tad on the pricey side but you certainly get what you pay for, fantastic service and more! There are also a number of specialist pregnancy treatments and dedicated men’s treatments available. Certainly take a peek on the Fishmore Hall website if you’re interested in knowing more.
The spa boasts four spotlessly clean treatment rooms and you could literally smell the ‘newness’ of them when you stepped into the cabin. I always get excited for my massages, throw off my bra and faceplant the table every single time. Needless to say, I was so relaxed that I almost fell asleep during my Back, Neck and Shoulder treatment (£45). The only downside to the treatment was that you could hear people stepping into the cabin and talking quite loudly, even when the spa music was playing. Although this didn’t disturb me that much, I feel that some customers might pick up on this in time. I was also treated to a spa facial and my skin glowed so hard afterwards, they’re wizards at this place I tell you!
Once my treatment was finished, I was handed a snugly dressing robe and slippers to use on my own accord whilst experiencing the spa area. The section is only small and has both an inside area for the sauna, steam room and relaxation chairs. Outside has an outdoor Cedar wellness pool, a monsoon drench shower with freezing cold water and a hammock and chairs for chilling on, overlooking the Shropshire hills. It’s not every day you get to experience a spa like this, it’s certainly very unique.
On the day I attended, the weather was overcast and there was a light breeze, but this didn’t bother me too much. The robe certainly came in handy whilst dipping in and out of the tub. I must’ve spent around 2 hours in the spa area, trying out the different systems and drinking numerous glasses of water. Not forgetting they also provide sleeping bags and blankets for spa users if you wish to use the hammock and fall asleep. There’s no doubt whatsoever that I didn’t leave feeling refreshed and rebalanced, pure chill central.
I decided to call it a day and get changed, ready for a spot of Afternoon Tea with Laura. She kindly said we could eat in the spa room but I wanted to take a look around the hotel instead. Looking at a recent press release, there will apparently be a new ‘Spa themed Afternoon Tea’ launching this winter for those wishing to indulge during their visit, so definitely check that out. The main hotel restaurant has a 3AA Rosette restaurant named Forelles and I’ve heard when dining there, you will experience some of the best innovative cooking, using ingredients sourced from local producers. I would absolutely love to go back and try the Fishmore Hall Tasting Menu. Here’s hoping Josh and I can visit to celebrate our next anniversary there!
Sipping pots of tea and tasting dainty sandwiches was the best way to end my press trip to Fishmore Hall. A smartly dressed waiter came over and took our tea order and not long after, the sandwiches and sweets began to arrive at the table. I found it interesting that the sandwiches came on a separate slate board instead of on the stand but I think this made me appreciate eating the sandwiches more, rather than rushing for the scones. The food was tasty and the lemon sorbet pudding was one of the best sweets I’ve tasted during an afternoon tea. There’s a reason why this hotel is rated very highly for its food.
A huge thanks goes to Fishmore Hall for being the perfect host during my spa trip. Both the staff and food was genuinely outstanding and I am extremely impressed with the quality of service. I am considering booking a room over the next couple of weeks as I want my boyfriend to experience what I did. Although he’s not much of a spa-goer, something tells me he’ll appreciate the hot tub overlooking the cows.
Please note: I was invited to the hotel for a free treatment, spa access and complimentary afternoon tea.