There are few more impressive buildings in our city than the Free Trade Hall. A stunning Italian Palazzo-style ashlar sandstone structure, it’s an architectural masterpiece that has stood in position on pretty Peter Street since 1846. Over the centuries, the address has served as many things, and in 2004 reopened as The Edwardian Hotel. A transition that cost £45million, giving Manchester one of its first truly modern five-star landmark accommodations, with incredible amenities.
The Spa & Gym are just two examples, and cover an amazing 7,000 square feet. Designed for seclusion and sanctuary from the hotel, and busy streets, the spaces are distinct but connected seamlessly, with the biggest selling point an amazing subterranean swimming pool. Set at a 12-metre deck level, this area includes beautiful seating, Jacuzzi and experience shower. Elsewhere, you’ll find a super-relaxing sauna, stream rooms, and specialist treatment rooms steeped in atmosphere. Everything is fitted to exacting standards, with marble-tiled changing rooms, huge vanity mirrors, neutral wood palettes (including tactile oak walls), and Crittall glass dividers. Elements contrast yet complement the aqua blue stone lining the water itself.
Working with leading luxury skincare brand ESPA, facials are perennially popular, as are the Swedish, pregnancy, deep tissue, aromatherapy, and hot stone massages, while body treatments like wraps, scrubs, and polishes are also must-tries. Finally, the Technogym provides guests with market-leading equipment, including high-intensity cardio machines and treadmills, and a private mat area with designated weights, a bespoke TRX rig and punch bag for building strength. All designed with input from personal trainers. Access is free for those staying in the hotel, and day use of the spa, with towels, robe hire, and a drink, is £59. For full membership, it’s £165 per month, plus a £200 joining fee, entitling you to unlimited use of the facilities, one guest per month, 20% discount on treatments Monday to Friday, and 15% off drinks in the hotel’s spectacular Library Champagne Bar.