Malmaison Manchester Spa

A favourite for girls’ weekends and romantic breaks, the Malmaison Manchester Spa is a cosy hideaway that uses its compact space well, and is a sure-bet for beauty treatments.

With an Eastern theme and low, soft lighting, it has a quiet, serene feel to it (a world away from the buzzy restaurant and bar above). You’ll find the pick of the beauty brands here: ESPA and Nimue for the body treatments and skincare, Shellac and Vinylux for nails, and Lycon for waxing, plus a spray tan booth.

The facilities aren’t huge (there are two saunas, a relaxation room, and four treatment rooms) so it’s not one for those who want to settle in and spend all day there. Likewise, the fitness suite is pretty compact and only worth bothering with if you’re staying at the Mal and want a quick workout.

The spa welcomes group bookings and hen parties – it’s ideal if you want to spend the afternoon getting pampered before heading out for a big night in the NQ.