Review of Alexandra House, Huddersfield

Alexandra House, Huddersfield - 4 bubbles

These holistic treatment rooms, tucked away in a Victorian mansion house, have a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Knowledgeable staff, effective treatments, gorgeous Karin Herzog products, and some of the best cake we've ever eaten. A slice of heaven just off the M62. No wonder Sedate Spy didn't want to leave.

Was it easy to book?

First impressions?

How did they welcome you?

What happens next?

Which treatments did you have?

What were the treatments like?

How did you feel afterwards?

What happens afterwards?

Long-term effects

Was it worth it?

What else could you have?

What do you wish you'd known before you went?

Any special features?

Who do you think would like it?

Why did you give the spa this rating?

Would you go again?

Was it easy to book?

No problem. We had been invited to visit, and the receptionist was friendly and helpful when it came to choosing our treatments.

First impressions?

Alexandra House is an holistic health and well-being spa on a beautiful tree-lined street of huge Victorian mansion houses, just five minutes from Huddersfield city centre. You can easily reach Alexandra House from the M62.

How did they welcome you?

Maxine, Alexandra House's friendly owner, swiftly put me at my ease. She led me through the spacious reception area to the welcoming lounge at the back of the house, gave me a wicker basket for my clothes, and showed me to the changing room.

What happens next?

Wrapped in fluffy robe and comfy slippers, I sat in the lounge. Maxine returned with an inflatable footbath, which was a nice touch for me to enjoy whilst filling in the detailed consultation form. After 15 minutes, Maxine dried my feet and introduced me to my therapist, Carlie. Carlie showed me upstairs to my treatment room.

Which treatments did you have?

I had the lymphatic drainage body massage and body mud mask (105 minutes, £65).

Carlie examined my consultation form and explained the treatment to me. The treatment uses a combination of Karin Herzog products and includes a thorough lymphatic drainage massage and a blended copper, clay and volcanic mud mask. The treatment is designed to "boost the immune system, improve the appearance of the skin, reduce cellulite, water retention and also detox the system".

What were the treatments like?

Carlie made sure I was comfortable and warm as I lay face down on the massage couch. She began the treatment with a thorough dry body brush using light but vigorous strokes starting at my feet. Next, came the fruit serum exfoliation, which Carlie applied with gentle circular motions. The exfoliant had a grainy texture, but was not too abrasive. The smell was deliciously fruity. Once Carlie had thoroughly prepared my skin, it was time for my lymphatic drainage massage. For this, Carlie used Monoi massage oil, a blend of pure coconut oil and Tahitian gardenia. I found the massage soothing and relaxing; it seemed to last for an age.

After Carlie had removed the massage oil with warm, damp towels, she dabbed on an oxygen body mask, which claims to "assist detoxing", and applied a thermal body mud mask, a self-heating mixture of clays, to my entire body. Finally, Carlie wrapped me in foil to maintain heat.

While the wrap did its work, Carlie gave me a hot stone facial using pressure points on my face. Carlie then completely removed all the mud using warm damp towels, and applied a slick of Tonus B12 moisturiser. The moisturiser would normally be the last stage of the experience but, during the initial consultation, Carlie had suggested I try the Karin Herzog Silhouette anti cellulite cream on my tummy. Treatment completed, Carlie gave me a glass of refreshing water and advised me to drink plenty more as massage can leave you feeling thirsty.

How did you feel afterwards?

Fantastic! My skin felt velvety smooth and my face was less puffy than usual. As I started to walk around, I definitely felt lighter. When I put on my robe, I had a quick inspection of my thighs; I couldn't be certain but, being an optimist, I think there was noticeable reduction of dimply skin.

What happens afterwards?

Once I had gulped down my water, Carlie showed me through to the relaxation room. This was a bright and cosy with several comfortable relaxation beds. I snuggled under my blanket while I waited for a cup of tea. Carlie offered me fresh home-made cake, and I chose the lemon tart. (Not an easy choice, as I had overheard swooning about the chocolate fudge cake!) Delicious.

The final treat of the day was a paraffin wax hand treatment. If you have never had one of these, I would highly recommend the experience. You dip each hand separately into liquid wax so that the wax just covers your hand; the wax is warm but not too hot. After you take your hand out, your therapist wraps your hand in tissue, then pops into a warm insulated mitten for 15 minutes. My hands felt warm and my skin soothed afterwards.

Long-term effects

I couldn't wait to inspect my skin the following morning. When I did, I was amazed! I really did notice the reduction in dimples on my thighs and I had lost a lot of my usual water-retention. I felt lighter on my feet and re-energised. My skin, which is usually very dry, felt soft. The effects lasted for five days. Carlie had explained that the lymphatic drainage body massage and body mud mask is recommended as a course because the results are cumulative. I wished I could have had the treatment all over again!

Was it worth it?

Definitely. I had an amazing treatment, which I thoroughly enjoyed and felt fantastic for days afterwards.

What else could you have?

Alexandra House uses Karin Herzog and Eve Taylor products. There are facial and body treatments on offer and a wide array of holistic therapies ranging from chakra balancing and reflexology to hypnosis, and psychic readings. There is even a qualified dentist who'll whiten your teeth in the tranquil surroundings of the spa!

What do you wish you'd known before you went?

Alexandra House has a dual treatment room and also a cosy double lounger. I wish I had taken a friend!

Any special features?

The hospitality of the staff stands out. My therapist, Carlie, was one of the most knowledgeable that I have come across; she explained each step of the treatment in a way that made me calm and confident.

Who do you think would like it?

The morning that I was at Alexandra House, there was a full array of spa-goers: a couple, a group of girls, and women on their own.

Why did you give the spa this rating?

We gave Alexandra House 4 bubbles. From the moment you arrive, you are made to feel relaxed. I loved the calm, friendly atmosphere. My treatment was excellent and performed by an obviously skilled and experienced therapist.

The only problem is that there is only one changing room. I would also have preferred the relaxation room to be a little darker so I could really relax.

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