Mum and I took a bit of a punt on this one, she’d seen a good package on SpaSeekers and we decided to go for it. The package at the four star MacDonald Forest Hills Hotel & Spa included; breakfast, a 30 minute Elemis treatment, use of the spa facilities and a two course dinner (allowance was £25 I think). The package was £119 I think at that time, but check out SpaSeekers as they are always changing the offers.

We received a really warm welcome which got us off to a good start. Our twin room was spacious and comfortable with a bath and surprisingly large seating area, we were both really pleased with it.

The Spa

We had a quick cocktail in the bar which was very smart and a nice place to pass an hour before making our way across the car park to the spa. We didn’t use the facilities but there was an 18m pool, a gym, and thermal facilities. The spa therapists offer a range of Elemis treatments, a respected brand that ensures a good quality treatment. The treatment rooms had a very relaxing vibe with experienced therapists, Mum and I both chose the massage option. Our only regret is we didn’t go for an hour. When we return, which we definitely will, we will extend our spa package to lengthier treatments or possibly even double up and add a facial, they are well worth it.

Dinner

We were both hungry and looking forward to the dinner by the time it came around. The dining room feels really smart but not pretentious. Comfortable armchairs made you want to stay and indulge in a dessert and perhaps coffee afterwards. Mum and I ended up picking the same menu. No FOMO risk here! We started with an Asian inspired pork belly starter with a beautifully clear consommé. It was a delicate dish that felt very fine dining, our expectations were being exceeded! The main was billed as a Beef Bourguignon, but this was so much more than a stew. The beef was sliced and blushing pink, laid atop a fluffy mash, surrounded with a deep red wine jus. Dessert maintained the exceptionally high standard, a large choux bun complete with craquelin.

Everything at MacDonald Forest Hills was spot on, but the dinner made it a fantastic deal. We’d highly recommend a visit, especially if the food is an important part of your stay.

Find out more here – MacDonald Forest Hills & Spa