THE FACTS ABOUT THE LOWRY HEALTH SPA

England

LOCATION On the first floor of the monolithic, minimalist, five-star Lowry Hotel on the banks of the River Irwell next to Calatrava's landmark Trinity Bridge. DECOR Clean monochrome. White corridors, suede sofas, bleached pine floors and the odd Eastern artefact produce a surprisingly warm and calming atmosphere as you pad about in regulation white robe and slippers. CREDO 'We treat mind, body and soul as one and use natural products to enhance the whole life cycle. We educate people to reward their bodies for all the efforts they put them through, to relax and re-balance themselves in a haven away from the busy city.' FACILITIES Six treatment rooms, a men's and a women's sauna, a well-equipped gym overlooking the river, two nail bars and two light, comfortable relaxation rooms for men and women. Day guests may use the facilities between 9am and 6pm. TREATMENTS Three day programmes and three half-day programmes to indulge, detoxify or relieve stress. The Stress Recovery Day, with body polish, deep therapeutic massage and a luxury facial, is fabulous. ESPA's signature hot-stone therapy is also available, as well as mud and algae envelopments, reiki, reflexology, manicures and other salon treatments. SERVICE Highly professional and forthright. FOOD Lunch, a selection from the menu du jour at Marco Pierre White's River Room, is served behind a screen next to the spa's reception and is a highlight of the day -and there's no need to change out of robe and slippers. The food is not exactly low-calorie -pot roast quail followed by honey-glazed magret of duck and a trio of steamed puddings -but the portions are suitably modest. BEST THING The lavish attention bestowed on feet and hands during the stress-recovery massage; and the delicious scent of aromatherapy oils burned during treatments. WORST THING Day treatments last less than three hours and the facilities are insufficient to merit staying on. There is no pool or steam room. RATING 7/10 PRICE Half-day programmes £85; day programmes, including lunch and use of gym, sauna and relaxation areas, from £125. CONTACT The Lowry Health Spa, The Lowry Hotel, 50 Dearmans Place, Chapel Wharf, Manchester M3 5LU (0161 827 4034; www.roccofortehotels.com)