Manchester's top day spas

Posh

The Lowry Hotel
50 Dearmans Place, Chapel Wharf M3 5LH
0161 827 4000
www.thelowryhotel.com

The scene
Arguably the chic-est spa in Manchester, but you'd expect no less from the hotel that puts up Jennifer Lopez and Madonna when they're in town. The small but perfectly-formed spa is set in Zen-like surroundings - acres of pale wood and white walls - nothing to distract from the fine art of spa-ing. It offers E'Spa and alternative (reflexology, Reiki) treatments.

Star treatments
Can't decide between a facial and a massage? Try the E'Spa Holistic Aromatherapy Back, Face and Scalp Treatment with Hot Stone Therapy - an indulgent treatment which includes a facial and massage using hot stones on the body's energy points. So blissful it'll render you incapable of doing anything bar snoozing in the relaxation room.

The cost
This standard of pampering doesn't come cheap, as evidenced by the glossy set that frequent the hotel, but it's worth it. Day packages cost £125 (half days from £85); facials cost from £48; body treatments range from £35-£85.

Sienna Spa
Radisson Edwardian, Peter Street M2 5GP
0161 835 9929
www.radissonedwardian.com/sienna

The scene
The Sienna Spa is a little pocket of serenity tucked away in the historic barrel vaults of the five-star hotel. The decor is reassuringly expensive; most impressive is the pool with its reflective ceiling, and the mood-enhancing fairy lights in the sauna and steam room, which gradually change colour to soothe frazzled minds.

Star treatments
The Elemis Japanese silk booster facial leaves you with baby-smooth skin. It's aromatherapy with added science: a pro-collagen lift reduces fine lines, vitamin C rebalances and soothes. For all-over invigoration, try the glorious Elemis exotic lime and ginger salt glow - you'll tingle with health.

The cost
From £38 to £170 (for a day package with multiple treatments) plus £12 per day for the use of gym and swim facilities. But despite the gloss, the attitude is inclusive and friendly rather than exclusive and chilly.