Carden Park, Cheshire a 17th-century estate – The spa garden dreams are made of

Arrival at Carden Park Estate

Carden is set on a 17th-century estate in Broxton, Cheshire, boasting a private vineyard that produces its own sparkling wine and cider. What amazed us was the sheer size of Carden Park itself as you roll up the extensive driveway.

The hotel, separate spa, and Vertigo adventure area—complete with zip-wire and obstacle course—is a nod to thrill-seekers as well as those wanting a restful escape from city life in the heart of stunning Cheshire.

The concierge was very friendly, and the room was perfect for a one-night stay. With a comfy double bed, beautiful views of the garden, and a little trio of welcome desserts, it was easy to settle in—but we had to explore!

State-of-the-Art Leisure Facilities

As a regular gym-goer, the leisure club was top of the list, and it blew my mind. Filled with state-of-the-art equipment for cardio, weightlifting, and body composition analysis, as well as a dedicated cycle studio and boxing bag, it was fitness heaven.

Gourmet Dining at The Vines

After a quick change, it was time for dinner at the newly refurbished restaurant, The Vines. Designed to provide the very best gourmet dining experience, The Vines at Carden was inspired by the on-site vineyard and features an extensive selection of fine wines.

Executive Chef Graham Tinsley MBE and Head Chef Harri Williams create seasonal à la carte menus with the finest locally sourced ingredients, showcasing true culinary craftsmanship. Combined with impeccable service and an elegant ambience, it was an absolute winner.

We opted for the tasting menu to try a little bit of everything. The shining stars were the Chef’s snacks: pea and shallot tartlet, whipped chicken liver parfait with peach and brioche, and miso cod taco—tantalising. The Welsh lamb loin with lamb breast fritter, baba ganoush, purple sprouting broccoli, crispy polenta, pickled garlic, and lamb jus was equally unforgettable.

The chef even allowed us to swap a dessert for the Baked Alaska with lemon curd ice cream, sorrel sorbet, and flamed in Limoncello—utter heaven. This was washed down with a glass of the Carden Spa Rosé Sparkling, a very easy British sparkling to drink.

Indulgence in the Award-Winning Spa Garden

After a very deep sleep, we awoke to spend the day immersed in the stunning countryside spa. The Spa at Carden boasts one of the largest Spa Gardens in the UK, equipped with outdoor hot tubs, swimming pools, and sun loungers.

This £10m spa with a five-star treatment centre delivers ultimate beach club summer vibes: hot tubs neatly placed outside, two pools, loungers, a champagne bar, a Finnish-style sauna, and fire pits perfect for selfies.

It’s safe to say you’re certainly ‘wowed’ when you walk into the stunning entrance, especially on a sunny day. The Bollinger Champagne Bar is a stunning central addition, evoking rich Cheshire housewives with a sprinkle of celebratory flair.

Awarded Large Spa of the Year and Luxury Destination Spa in 2021, the spa gardens were simply breathtaking—it honestly felt like you were abroad (the heat helped too!). The facilities included a Finnish sauna, bio sauna, experience showers, tepidarium, salt steam room, aroma steam room, and a central ice fountain.

Incredible added touches included a full range of face and body treatments designed by natural product house Elemental Herbology, based on the Five Element Theory in Traditional Chinese Medicine—a belief that everything in life needs to work in harmony for perfect equilibrium.

From the moment I arrived to the moment I left, I felt calm and at peace. This is really what you want from the perfect spa day, and Carden went above and beyond. It may be my favourite spa yet.