Cheshire's Jacobite Jewel

Crewe is perhaps best known as a large railway junction but, on the outskirts of this once mighty 19th century town famed for its engineering innovation and design, sits a rather splendid hall that on first viewing leaves you breathless.

Crewe Hall Hotel & Spa sits majestically in sprawling grounds, and most would be fooled into thinking that the English Civil War was still at its height and that Cromwell or some of the King’s Cavaliers were about to come round the corner!

However, settle yourself into a junior suite - with four-poster bed no less - and the illusion is almost complete until, of course, you realise that the property’s current 17th century splendour is largely thanks to individuals from another period in history: the Victorians! Well, almost!

The site of the now Grade I listed mansion dates back as far as 1170 and came into the Crewe Family in 1608, however in 1866 the interior of Crewe Hall was badly damaged by fire, paving the way for one of the most famous architects of the period, Edward Barry to cast his magic.

Barry was famous for buildings such as Covent Garden Theatre, Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital, Charing Cross Station and, latterly, the Houses of Commons.

So, when he was asked to play a key role in giving Crewe Hall the biggest makeover of its life, he could not resist the temptation to add a wealth of mid-Victorian ornamentation: stone was replaced by alabaster and marble; leaded panes gave way to stained glass windows and elaborate designs were executed in plasterwork.

And, what a fine job he did!

However, the QHotels Collection, of which Crewe Hall Hotel & Spa, is part, has now picked up where Barry left off with a £1m investment to refurbish and significantly enhance several of the hotel’s facilities.

The project, which began in autumn 2023 and is now complete, has set out to elevate the guest experience and solidify the property’s reputation as one of the region’s premier resorts for both corporate and leisure guests.

And, one of the most impressive elements of the refurb is the introduction of ‘The Sheridan Bar’, a stunning new Moët & Chandon Champagne and cocktail bar where you can enjoy both the architectural splendour of your surroundings and afternoon tea if alcohol is not to your liking!

Named after the playwright and politician Richard Brinsley Sheridan, a friend of the first Lord Crewe and his wife Frances, the Sheridan is adorned with a new reception, waiter station, and back bar featuring marble and brass accents. It is already proving a firm favourite locally and beyond thanks to its chic, of-the-moment ambience.

“What’s Crewe like,” I asked the pleasant receptionist.

“Bit like Scunthorpe,” she grinned, “but I can strongly recommend the eight-mile drive to Nantwich which is a gorgeous market town. It must be nice,” she added, “I live there!”

And so off we tootled, in no way expecting what greeted us. It was January 25th and the whole town had been taken over by The Sealed Knot for the re-enactment of the Battle of Nantwich, part of Holly Holy Day.

For a moment you could have been forgiven for thinking that Dr Who had transported us back in time in his Tardis! Magnificent.

Cavaliers and Roundheads thronged the town and, after parades, proclamations and fascinating talks in the beautiful St Mary’s Church, there was the full-blown battle itself on the outskirts of town.

However, despite some considerable conflict, there were no casualties and everyone went home friends following a few drinks in the bulging boozers, the time for us to hightail it back to our hotel and evening dinner!

The food was excellent but, if there was one marginal criticism, it was that the restaurant, clearly very popular, needed a few more staff: a nice problem to have perhaps but easily resolved.

The food offering is in the modern wing of the wider complex, as is the spa, however, in the old, ‘original’ mansion building, extensive updates have been made to the state banqueting rooms, including new carpeting, redecoration of The Old Hall, and meticulous restoration of the beautiful Long Gallery overlooking the back of the hotel.

All of these spaces are perfect for weddings, conferences, meetings and special events, the banqueting bar now featuring designer-led carpeting that complements the historic oak stairs, and the refurbished lounge.

The investment also includes a complete overhaul of the guest bedrooms in the modern wing, enhancing both comfort and aesthetics. Guests now enjoy a refreshed look and feel with the addition of new deluxe rooms featuring double sofa beds, ideal for families, group stays and friends’ pamper evenings.

David Rowley, General Manager of Crewe Hall Hotel & Spa, said: "With the extensive refurbishment now complete, we are excited to present the enhanced offerings at Crewe Hall.

“The Moët & Chandon Champagne bar, along with upgraded bedrooms and revitalised event spaces, represents our commitment to providing top-tier hospitality. These improvements position us strongly in the market and offer our guests an exceptional experience."

And, as I sleepily watched tv, whilst sipping on a cocktail in the surrounds of my sumptuous suite and four-poster bed, it was hard to disagree!

Full hotel details: https://www.crewehallcheshire.co.uk/