If you’ve ever booked a spa day and ended up feeling like you’ve just spent the afternoon in a slightly fancier leisure centre, you’ll know how rare it is to find somewhere that actually feels relaxing. Hatherley Manor is one of those places. Tucked away in the countryside, it’s got all the essentials: a heated pool, a vitality pool, thermal bits and bobs, proper relaxation areas and even an outdoor garden for a bit of fresh air. Most importantly, there’s plenty of space to actually switch off. And if you’re anything like me and a few hours never feels quite long enough, you can always turn it into a full-on spa break and make a night of it.
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Table of Contents
- Hatherley Manor
- What’s Included in a Hatherley Manor Spa Day?
- What Do You Need To Bring With You?
- Were The Facilities Busy?
- Hatherley Manor Gym
- Hatherley Manor Afternoon Tea
- Can you book Hatherley Manor for a Spa Break?
- So, would I return to Hatherley Manor Spa?
- Where is Hatherley Manor?
- Hatherley Manor Directions
- Getting to Hatherley Manor by public transport
- Follow Them on Social Media
- Make A Booking
- Hatherley Manor Spa Discount Code
Hatherley Manor – Gloucester Hotel With Spa
Some spa days leave you feeling like you’ve had a treatment. And then there are spa days where, for a few precious hours, you completely forget what day it is.
Hatherley Manor fell firmly into the second category.
Hidden away in the Gloucestershire countryside, Hatherley Manor is only a short drive from Tewkesbury and just over an hour from Cardiff. But honestly, once you’re stretched out on a lounger with a view of the garden, you’ll forget all about how you got there.
My morning here was a mix of swimming, trying out the thermal rooms, tucking into afternoon tea and, most importantly, doing a whole lot of nothing. By the time I left, I was definitely more relaxed than when I’d arrived.
What’s Included in a Hatherley Manor Spa Day?
Once you’ve wriggled into your robe, the serious business of doing absolutely nothing can begin. You get access to the heated swimming pool and the vitality pool, where sitting under the water jets definitely counts as being productive in my book. There’s also a sauna, steam room and a tepidarium (which is basically a gently warmed room for relaxing), plus heated loungers and a proper chill-out area.
One thing that really stood out for me was how spotless everything was. It makes such a difference when a spa actually feels clean and cared for. The staff were brilliant too – friendly, helpful and always around if you needed something, but never hovering.
What I really loved about Hatherley Manor Spa is that the relaxing doesn’t stop at the pool. There’s an outdoor garden with loungers, and if you’re lucky enough to catch a sunny day, it’s the perfect spot to stretch out, soak up some rays, flick through a book or just scroll aimlessly on your phone.
What Do You Need To Bring With You?
I always want to know what I actually need to pack before a spa day. Hatherley Manor keeps it simple: you get a robe, towel and flip-flops (which you can take home as a little souvenir). You do need to wear the flip-flops around the spa, so there’s no need to bring your own.
There are lockers for your belongings, plus changing rooms, showers and even Elemis shampoo, conditioner and body wash. Hairdryers are on hand too, so you can pretty much just turn up with your swimwear and a change of clothes.
The changing rooms are on the small side. There were four of us trying to shower and get changed at once, which felt a bit like a game of Tetris. Not ideal, but definitely doable.
Were The Facilities Busy?
I’ll admit, I was a bit worried the spa might be busy and I’d end up spending half the day eyeing up someone else’s lounger. But when I visited, it was lovely and quiet, which made all the difference. I could wander between the different facilities at my own pace and, most importantly, actually relax.
That said, I should mention it was a Monday morning, so your experience might be different if you visit at a busier time.
Hatherley Manor Gym
If the thought of lying down all day makes you a bit twitchy, there’s a gym as well. It’s got all the usual cardio and weights equipment, and spa guests can use it. I did bring my gym kit with good intentions, but let’s just say I didn’t exactly unleash my inner Olympian.
Hatherley Manor Afternoon Tea
Is it even a proper spa day if you don’t have afternoon tea at Hatherley Manor?
I had my eye on the main restaurant, Thyme at the Manor, but ended up eating in the spa’s own dining area instead. The bonus? You can stay in your robe while you eat, which always feels like a bit of a treat.
The sandwiches were tasty, though I wouldn’t have said no to a bit more filling. The scones, though, were the real stars – properly good, with a generous helping of clotted cream.
The cakes didn’t quite hit the mark for me. Because I’m nut intolerant, I had a different selection to everyone else, so I can’t say if the usual cakes are better. Mine just didn’t have that homemade feel I was hoping for, and they were probably the weakest part of the whole afternoon tea.
That said, it didn’t spoil the experience. Afternoon tea in a spa is really about sitting down, drinking far too much tea and feeling a bit smug that you’ve got nowhere else to be – and on that front, it absolutely delivered.
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Can you book Hatherley Manor for a Spa Break?
If one day at Hatherley Manor doesn’t sound quite long enough, you can turn the experience into a proper spa break by staying overnight. Hatherley Manor Hotel & Spa has 56 bedrooms, ranging from Classic and Classic Spa rooms through to Executive, Superior Feature and Double Deluxe bedrooms, plus a bridal suite. Bedrooms include tea and coffee facilities, ironing station, TV, seating and workspace, free Wi-Fi, luxury towels and a hairdryer.
If you’re heading here for a proper spa break, I’d be tempted to splash out on an upgrade. The Superior Spa Bedrooms have balconies overlooking the walled garden, which sounds pretty dreamy. There are also some rooms with loads of character – think four-poster beds and a mix of old manor charm with modern touches.
One of the best things about staying at Hatherley Manor is that spa access is included with your room if you book direct. This is where it really shines as a hotel spa – you’re not just popping in for a treatment and heading home. You can wander back to your room, have dinner, sleep in the countryside and wake up to breakfast before you leave. No need to keep an eye on the clock. Once you’ve checked in, you can just relax and take things at your own pace – which is exactly the point.
So, would I return to Hatherley Manor Spa?
I left Hatherley Manor genuinely relaxed, which is really the best test of any spa day. It was spotless, calm, well organised and had enough to keep me happily occupied for hours without ever feeling bored.
If you’re after a spa hotel in Gloucester where you can mix treatments, thermal facilities, good food and a comfy overnight stay, Hatherley Manor is one I’d happily recommend.
Where is Hatherley Manor?
📍 Hatherley Manor Hotel & Spa, Down Hatherley Lane, Gloucester, GL2 9QA
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Hatherley Manor Directions
Hatherley Manor Hotel is particularly straightforward to reach by car, with free on-site parking and electric vehicle charging points available in both the hotel and spa car park.
From the north: Leave the M5 at Junction 11 and take the A40 towards Gloucester. At the roundabout, take the third exit towards Ross-on-Wye and Tewkesbury (A40). At the next roundabout, take the third exit onto the A38/Tewkesbury Road. After around a mile, turn right towards Down Hatherley. Hatherley Manor is signposted and will be on the left.
From the south: Leave the M5 at Junction 11A and join the Barnwood Bypass. Continue along the A417, then take the Barnwood Link Road (A40/A417). Follow the road to the Northern Bypass (A40), then at the next roundabout take the third exit onto Tewkesbury Road (A38). After about a mile, turn right towards Down Hatherley; the hotel is on the left.
Getting to Hatherley Manor by public transport
You can also reach Hatherley Manor without a car. From Gloucester Bus Station, take the Stagecoach 71 service towards Tewkesbury and ask the driver to stop at the top of Down Hatherley Lane. From there, it’s approximately a 10-minute walk to the hotel. You can also pick up the same service near Gloucester railway station, with the bus station directly opposite the station entrance.
Follow Them on Social Media
Follow Hatherley Manor Hotel and Spa for hotel updates, new menus, spa offers, photos, videos, and behind-the-scenes bits on Facebook | Instagram | TikTok
You can also read more Hatherley Manor reviews on TripAdvisor.
Make A Booking
You can check availability and book online.
The Hatherley Manor Spa telephone number is 01452 733299
Hatherley Manor Spa Discount Code
Discount codes are often available on the Hatherley Manor offers page.
Blue Light card holders – those who work in the NHS, emergency services, social care or armed forces – also get 10% off treatments and spa days.
Things To Do Near Hatherley Manor
One of the perks of staying at Hatherley Manor is that you can make your spa break as lazy or as action-packed as you fancy. If you’ve had your fill of swimming and saunas, there’s loads to do nearby.
Explore Gloucester
Gloucester Cathedral is an obvious place to start. The 1,000-year-old cathedral is one of the city’s big attractions and is particularly interesting for film fans, thanks to its famous cloisters appearing in the Harry Potter films.
For something a little less historical, head to Gloucester Quays, where you’ll find outlet shopping, restaurants, a cinema and the historic docks. The National Waterways Museum Gloucester is also here, with exhibits exploring the history of Britain’s canals and waterways.
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Visit Tewkesbury
Tewkesbury makes a lovely addition to a Hatherley Manor stay, particularly if you fancy a wander around an historic town rather than another organised activity. Explore the medieval streets, walk beside the River Severn and visit Tewkesbury Abbey, which has stood here for almost 900 years. You can also take a boat trip along the Avon in season.
Head Into the Cotswolds
Hatherley Manor is also a handy base for exploring the Cotswolds, so you could easily turn your spa break into a longer adventure. Cheltenham is close by for a dose of Regency architecture, indie shops, restaurants and the famous Promenade. Or head further out to classic Cotswold spots like Stow-on-the-Wold and Bourton-on-the-Water.
If you’re after something a bit more outdoorsy, the hotel suggests the Cotswold Way, Forest of Dean, Westonbirt Arboretum, Batsford Arboretum and the Malvern Hills. There’s loads of walking and cycling nearby, so don’t forget your boots if you fancy balancing all that spa time with a bit of fresh air.
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Book a Tour
Booking a tour in the Cotswolds with Viator is one of the easiest ways to explore this beautiful corner of England without the stress of planning every detail. These tours are crafted by locals and seasoned travellers, so you’ll discover more than just the postcard spots – think hidden viewpoints, quirky tales, and tucked-away tea rooms.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a dress code at Hatherley Manor?
For the spa, bring swimwear; treatments are generally taken in your robe with dry swimwear or underwear underneath.
What treatments does Hatherley Manor Spa offer?
Elemis and Made For Life treatments include massages, facials, manicures/pedicures, and specialist treatments. The treatment suite has six rooms, including a double treatment room.
There are also spa packages, including overnight stays, and special events like floating sound baths and wellness retreats.
Does Hatherley Manor Spa have a pool?
Yes – heated 12 metre swimming pool plus vitality pool heated to 34-36 degrees, a sauna and steam room, tepidarium, heated loungers, a relaxation room and spa garden.
Can children use the pool at Hatherley Manor?
Yes, children aged four and over can use the swimming pool at Hatherley Manor, but access is limited to dedicated family swimming times rather than all-day access. Children can swim between 9am and 10.30am, and again from 4.30pm to 6pm. Thermal facilities, including the vitality pool, are strictly for guests aged 18 and over.
Does Hatherley Manor have a gym?
Yes, with cardio and weights equipment.
Can I book a spa day at Hatherley Manor?
Yes, with several packages available, including Classic Spa Day, Time For You, Indulgence Day and seasonal options.
Is Hatherley Manor Spa accessible?
Hatherley Manor has an accessibility statement with several provisions for guests with additional access requirements. Disabled parking is available directly outside the hotel, in front of the ground-floor reception, and staff can assist with bags if required.
If you’re specifically considering Hatherley Manor Spa because of accessibility requirements, I would contact the spa directly before booking. There is no step-free access into the pool, and no fixed pool hoist. The spa area has an accessible toilet.
What is Hatherley Manor Hotel known for?
Hatherley Manor is known as a historic 17th-century country house hotel and luxury spa set within 37 acres of parkland in Gloucestershire. The estate’s history dates back to the Domesday Book. During the 19th century, it was home to the Jones Family. Charles Allen Jones patented the Hatherley Lattisteps here, a precursor to the modern stepladder.
How many bedrooms does Hatherley Manor have?
Hatherley Manor has 56 rooms and includes classic rooms, deluxe rooms, superior rooms, executive rooms and a bridal suite.
Does Hatherley Manor have air conditioning?
Because of the building’s age, guest rooms do not have air conditioning. However, the event spaces do. Bedrooms can get hot in the summer months, but the hotel provides desk or tower fans to help circulate the air.
Is Hatherley Manor dog-friendly?
Yes. Dogs can stay in the bedrooms and use the lounge/bar areas, although they’re not allowed in the main restaurant. There’s a £15-per-dog, per-night charge, plus bowls and treats.
Who owns Hatherley Manor Hotel?
Anderbury Limited owns the hotel, with directors including Tony Burns and Stephen Geoffrey Trowbridge. The group also owns Rowton Hall in Cheshire and St George’s Hotel in Llandudno.
Does Hatherley Manor do events?
Hatherley Manor events are held throughout the year, including weddings, corporate meetings, and conferences. Its five function suites can be used for everything from birthday parties, proms and balls to christenings and funeral wakes, with larger spaces available for bigger celebrations. The hotel also hosts its own programme of ticketed events, including themed party nights, murder mystery and Christmas parties.
What’s on the Hatherley Manor Restaurant Menu?
The Hatherley Manor Menu at Thyme at the Manor changes seasonally. Open to both hotel guests and non-residents, it serves lunch, afternoon tea, dinner and Sunday lunch. The braised shoulder of lamb with Dauphinoise mash and red wine jus is a signature dish alongside other favourites like homemade fish and chips and Stroud Valley beef.
Disclosure: I was provided with a complimentary press pass, which included use of the facilities and afternoon tea. This was provided with no obligation or expectation that I would publish content or provide a positive review. All views, opinions and recommendations expressed in this article are my own and reflect my personal experience. The venue did not have editorial control over the content of this review.
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