Why we love Mercure Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa

This grand, castellated country house hotel has history on its side and modern hospitality at its core. Combining its regal stature with 21st century wellbeing and a sense of fairytale escapism, here are just five of the reasons we love Mercure Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa.

A hotel with history

The first thing that strikes you when you arrive at Mercure Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa is its architecture. The 700-year-old country manor house has kept many of its original features, including turrets and porticos, while inside its vast staircase is a site to behold. This sense of heritage is awe-inspiring, and sets the scene for celebrations and romantic getaways.

A tranquil location

In addition to its impressive architecture, Mercure Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa is surrounded by 17 acres of gardens, grounds and Lancashire countryside. It creates the perfect environment for rest and relaxation, but it's also not hard to see how it would provide the ideal backdrop to a wedding reception (FYI the banquet hall can accommodate up to 250 guests). Furthermore, if you head beyond the hotel borders and within 20 miles you will find the pretty Trough of Bowland - an enchanting valley and high pass in the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Space for the whole family

Despite the heritage style of the property, rooms and suites are contemporary and spacious. There are also plenty of them - 175 of them to be exact. That means that those visiting for hen parties, weddings, birthdays or any other special occasions, can ensure there's space for everyone. In addition, there are connecting rooms for those with children to stay in if they choose.

A modern spa destination

Rest and relaxation are enhanced at the hotel at the Spa Naturel Dunkenhalgh. Within the property, it includes a collection of leisure facilities and spa treatments. Work out in the gym, and wind down in the Whirlpool, swimming pool, sauna, laconium, Vapour steam room and an aromatherapy steam room, preparing for that massage with the power of thalassotherapy. Then head to a treatment room for a facial or body treatment from ishga (known for its organic, seaweed based skincare), as well as manicures and pedicures from Orly.

A mini break with plenty to do

Despite the tranquillity of the hotel's own location, there is plenty to see and do in the surrounding area. Nature lovers can continue to explore at the Trough of Bowland as mentioned. There are also multiple golf clubs close by including Blackburn Golf Club. On that note, Blackburn itself is in close proximity, as are tourist attractions such as the Trafford Centre, Chester Zoo and Blackpool Pleasure Beach.