Formby Hall Golf Resort and Spa is looking good after a £2.4m makeover. Rebekka O’Grady visits to enjoy a spa break
It’s clear that results of Formby Hall Golf Resort and Spa’s recent multi-million pound renovation speak for themselves. Its new owners HIG Capital have completely refurbished the hotel, expanded the spa and health club and improved its golf facilities, reinforcing its position as one of Lancashire’s luxury destinations. So I was excited to check out the new and improved facilities for myself when I was invited on a spa weekend.
Despite living roughly 40 minutes away from the venue, I felt like I was on holiday as soon as I stepped into the spa. My guest and I donned our fluffy robes and made our way downstairs to the pool, ready for a day of relaxation.
As part of the renovation, they have completely transformed their poolside experience with the addition of a Himalayan salt sauna, essence infused laconium cabin, experience showers and ice fountain. When we weren’t chatting in the spa bath, we enjoyed hopping in between each of the new elements before making our way upstairs to take some time out in the Thermal Heaven room, a calm space complete with sauna, steam room and heated loungers. It was the ideal way to unwind while we waited for our treatments; I was booked in for an ESPA detox wrap (£60) and my friend a hot stone massage (£60).
Following a full body brushing and a delectable peppermint scrub which invigorated the senses, my skin was prepared for the application of the marine algae, which is combined with detoxifying body oil to help purify the body and hydrate the skin. While wrapped up, my therapist carried out an express facial which left my skin feeling nourished. My friend was left thoroughly relaxed after her therapeutic body massage, which used warm volcanic stones to relieve deep muscle tension and aromatherapy oils to help unwind the mind.
After our time in the spa, we made our way over to one of the new executive loft style rooms which would be our home for the evening. New for 2017, the stunning rooms are located on their own dedicated floor with private entrance, and come complete with luxuries such as Nespresso coffee machines, televisions in the bathrooms and Molton Brown toiletries.
A quick outfit change and we were ready to dine at the newly refurbished Fairway Grill. Our table in the sleek restaurant had lovely views overlooking the golf course, and while we sipped on drinks from the grill’s extensive gin menu we watched as newlyweds had their photograph taken on the green.
Highlights from the meal included my succulent Pan Fried Lamb Rump (£18.50), served with wilted spinach, Jersey royal potatoes and heritage carrots, and our dessert of Glazed Lemon Tart (£6.95), which was paired with rhubarb compote and fabulous raspberry sorbet.
