Romance, Relaxation and Rambles: A Long Lazy Weekend in Hoar Cross

Discover the Story of Hoar Cross

Nestled amongst the rolling countryside of the ancient Needwood Forest, now part of the National Forest, the picturesque village of Hoar Cross has a history stretching back to the 13th century. Its name is thought to derive from a medieval boundary cross that once marked the edge of the forest, giving the village its distinctive identity.

The village is best known for the magnificent Hoar Cross Hall, an impressive Victorian country mansion rebuilt between 1862 and 1871 for the Meynell-Ingram family. Today, this Grade II listed estate has been transformed into one of Britain’s finest luxury spa destinations, while still showcasing its striking Jacobean architecture and beautifully landscaped grounds.

Just a short stroll away stands the breath-taking Church of the Holy Angels, often described as one of England’s finest Victorian churches. Built by Emily Meynell-Ingram as a memorial to her husband, the church is renowned for its spectacular stained glass, intricate carvings and magnificent Gothic Revival architecture, earning praise from poet Sir John Betjeman as a masterpiece of its architect, G.F. Bodley.

Surrounded by the peaceful woodlands and trails of The National Forest, Hoar Cross offers visitors a perfect blend of heritage, nature and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring scenic walking and cycling routes, admiring historic architecture or simply enjoying the tranquillity of the Staffordshire countryside, this charming village provides an unforgettable glimpse into England’s rural past.

A 3-day countryside escape for couples who love the finer things and the great outdoors. Nestled in the heart of East Staffordshire, Hoar Cross offers the perfect pairing of indulgent luxury and peaceful woodland walks. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply escaping the everyday, this romantic itinerary is designed to help you slow down and reconnect, with each other and with nature.

Morning Activity

Spa Serenity at Hoar Cross Hall Hotel & Spa. Begin your weekend in timeless style at Hoar Cross Hall, one of Staffordshire’s most celebrated country spa hotels. Surrounded by 50 acres of peaceful countryside, this grand Victorian mansion is a sanctuary of calm. Check in, change into your fluffy robes, and start your day with a couples massage or rejuvenating thermal experience. With hydrotherapy pools, saunas, steam rooms, and serene gardens, it’s the perfect setting to exhale and recharge.

Start your romantic weekend the right way—book your spa day at Hoar Cross Hall now!

Lunch

Afternoon Tea in The Library. Settle into the plush library for a classic afternoon tea. Sip champagne and savour hand-cut sandwiches and delicate cakes as sunlight streams through the grand windows. Don’t forget to seek out the ornate mirror believed to have inspired Lewis Carroll’s Through the Looking Glass—a whimsical touch to your luxurious afternoon.

Treat yourselves to an afternoon tea as magical as your love—reserve your table today.

Outdoor Hydrotherapy & Garden Views. Head back into spa bliss with a soak in the outdoor hydrotherapy pool or a lazy lounge among the spa gardens. Feel your shoulders drop as warm water bubbles around you and birdsong floats through the air. This is self-care, elevated.

Don’t just daydream about it—book your afternoon soak now!

Evening

Fine Dining in the Ballroom. As the sun sets, head to the AA Rosette-awarded Ballroom restaurant. Dine beneath chandeliers on beautifully plated, locally sourced dishes. From seasonal game to delicate desserts, this is dining with drama and finesse.

Make your evening unforgettable—book your dinner at Hoar Cross Hall.

Morning Activity

Morning: Spa Slow Start. Ease into day two with another gentle morning in the spa. Whether it’s a bespoke facial or a dip in the vitality pool, this is your time to fully switch off before a day of woodland adventures.

Give yourself permission to pause—return to the spa for ultimate tranquillity.

Lunch

Indulge in exceptional dining at Hoar Cross Hall Spa Hotel, where beautifully crafted seasonal dishes are served in elegant surroundings, from the AA Rosette-awarded Ballroom restaurant to relaxed lunches and indulgent afternoon teas. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or unwinding after a day of exploring, every meal is made using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients to create a memorable culinary experience.

Relax and refuel—book your table today.

Afternoon Activity

You can walk to Jackson’s Bank & the Needwood Circular from the Deer Park, just ask for directions in the farm shop. Lace up your boots and venture into Jackson’s Bank, an enchanting ancient woodland on the edge of the National Forest. Follow the Needwood Circular Walk for tranquil trails, dappled light, and sweeping views.

Don’t miss the Noon Column sculpture, aligned with the sun at solar noon, a beautiful moment of connection with nature.

Ready to ramble? Download a trail map and discover the National Forest.

Evening

Dinner at The Meynell Ingram Arms. Wrap up the day with a meal at this charming countryside gastropub, just a short drive away. Cosy up by the fire with a glass of red and choose from a menu packed with modern British classics. With exposed brick, wooden beams and a truly welcoming atmosphere, it’s date-night perfection.

Book your table and toast to love in the heart of East Staffordshire.

Morning

Step into one of Staffordshire’s best-kept secrets, right next door to Hoar Cross Hall. The Church of the Holy Angels sad history is entwines with that of Hoar Cross Hall. Built in the 1870s by Emily Meynell Ingram in memory of her husband, it’s a magnificent Grade I-listed building full of intricate gothic architecture, stained glass and artistic detail.

Don’t forget to take some pound coins for the electric!

History and heart await, plan your visit to this architectural gem.

Lunch

Lunch at The Deer Park Farm Shop & Café. Head over to The Deer Park for lunch and a spot of shopping. The farm shop is stocked with local produce, and the café serves homemade dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients. The views across the fields are the perfect backdrop for a laid-back final lunch. Then set off from The Deer Park’s private woodland to Jackson’s Bank, this serene walk through The National Forest will ground you.

Fabulous food in a farm shop setting, visit The Deer Park Café today.

Afternoon Activity

Set within the beautiful countryside of the former Needwood Forest, The Deer Park blends centuries of history with a modern rural experience. The surrounding landscape was once part of a medieval deer park belonging to the Meynell family of Hoar Cross Hall, where woodland, parkland and farmland have shaped the local scenery for generations. Today, visitors can enjoy peaceful woodland walks through the National Forest, discover locally sourced produce in the award-winning farm shop, relax in the welcoming cafés, and experience the rich agricultural heritage that continues to thrive in this idyllic corner of East Staffordshire.

Linger a little longer, explore more of East Staffordshire’s hidden woodland.

Overnight Accommodation

Overnight Accommodation: Hoar Cross Hall Hotel & Spa. Your home for the weekend is the magnificent Hoar Cross Hall. With plush rooms, spa access, and historic charm, it’s more than a hotel—it’s a destination in its own right.

Check availability and plan your perfect countryside escape today.

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