A friend has a significant birthday in January. She’s had a tough year for multiple reasons and a group of us are planning on booking her and her DH somehwere lovely for a night the week after her big day . (This is all being done with her DH’s knowledge and agreement and he will help us keep this as a surprise).
I don’t want to state a budget as if there is something that fits the bill that is cheaper, we will add in eg restaurant vouchers or vouchers for attractions etc. If there is something outside our budget, her DH will top it up.
Criteria:
Within an hour’s drive from Manchester, or maybe slightly further. Not in Mcr city centre and probably more than 30 mins to make it feel ‘away’.
A lovely hotel, either with an excellent restaurant in house or in walking distance . Again,food option doesn’t have to be mega expensive, juat really good quality but an expensive reataurant that is worth it is ok. A gastro pub would be ideal for this couple I think.
Preferably located in a pretty or interesting town or village, witg places of interest nearby. I was thinking about somewhere near Chatsworth as she’s always wanted to go but visiting there is now in plan with someone else.
They like walking but she may not be able to walk too far, so gentle short wanders. Obviously being January the weather may not be conducive to walking at all. So a hotel with a pool and gym woukd be helpful but not essential. Friend not a fan of facials / massages etc so full on spa definitely not essential.
I am asking on MN for tried and tested or at least places you know to have a good reputation rather than relying on googling.
thank you