What it's like to stay at the celebrity favourite Carden Park Hotel

Looking for your next weekend getaway? Let me put Carden Park on your radar. Tucked away in the beautiful Cheshire countryside and just under two hours from Birmingham, it’s also a super easy drive from Derby and Nottingham—making it the perfect escape if you're craving luxury without the long travel time.

Carden Park is huge—we’re talking 1,000 acres of rolling landscapes, two championship golf courses, its own vineyard (yes, really), and a spa that has just been crowned ‘Spa of the Year’ at the AA Hospitality Awards.

I had the Foot and Scalp Ritual (a game-changer if you're overdue for some real relaxation), and let’s just say... I forgot what stress even was.

Rooms? Gorgeous. The estate is mid-way through a £6.5 million bedroom refurbishment, with 20 of them already glowing with fresh, modern style. The full revamp is due by spring 2025. Rates vary, so you can choose what fits—standard rooms start from around £154, with luxe suites going up to £379 (breakfast included). Membership rates are also available, with overnight stays from £119. Worth it.

Now, the food. Wow. Carden Park’s The Vines restaurant just bagged three AA Rosettes, putting it in the top 10% of restaurants nationally. It's one of only four in Cheshire to hold that honour. The menu? Curated by Executive Chef Graham Tinsley MBE and Head Chef Harri Williams, it’s all seasonal, locally sourced, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re in the mood for a fancy dinner or a chilled-out afternoon tea, you’ll be in good hands.

And a fun little bonus? Celebrities have been known to check in here for a bit of discreet R&R—so you might just spot a familiar face while sipping your wine on the terrace.

Over the years, a number of famous faces have been spotted enjoying the estate’s luxe offerings. From footballers escaping the spotlight to TV personalities enjoying spa days, it’s the kind of place that attracts people who know a thing or two about quality. It’s all very low-key and discreet, of course, but don’t be surprised if you find yourself sharing the golf course or spa garden with a celeb or two. Just one more reason Carden Park feels like a proper VIP escape.

Basically, Carden Park nails the balance between upscale and unpretentious. It's ideal for a romantic weekend, a spa-centric escape with friends, or just a recharge in serious style.

So yes—if you're into beautiful places, good food, next-level spa vibes, and a bit of countryside air, this one's worth the trip.

There are loads of different options to stay - including or excluding the spa, treatments, lunch - you can tailor the perfect trip for your needs.

I honestly didn’t want to leave. Carden Park just has this effortless way of making you feel like you’re a million miles away from real life—even though you’ve barely left the Midlands. Everything from the welcome at reception to the final breakfast coffee felt polished but relaxed, like they’ve nailed the art of luxury without the fuss.

The spa was easily a highlight. The outdoor hot tubs, fire pits, and those panoramic countryside views? Absolute heaven. You can easily lose a whole afternoon floating between thermal experiences, sipping herbal tea in a fluffy robe, and forgetting what day it is. And the treatments? Top tier. That Foot and Scalp Ritual might just be the most relaxing hour I’ve had all year.

I also loved how much there is to do if you want to stay active—or not. Some people were there purely for golf (those courses are massive), while others were walking, wine tasting, or just lounging in the spa garden with a book. It’s one of those rare places where you can design your perfect weekend your way.

And shoutout to the staff—genuinely friendly, super helpful, and clearly proud of the place (as they should be). The service stood out in the best way: warm and professional without ever being over the top.

If you’re thinking about treating yourself to a proper escape without the hassle of airports or long journeys, Carden Park absolutely delivers. I already know I’ll be going back.

For more visit the website here.