Macdonald Craxton Wood Hotel

75 photos

Book on our site

up to 10% cheaper

than Booking.com

Key details

About the Hotel

Parkgate Rd, Chester, Ledsham (Cheshire), United Kingdom, CH66 9PB

Close to Ness Botanic Gardens

Very good

7.1

7.4

/10

3.0

3.4

Loved by Macdonald Craxton Wood Hotel & Spa, Chester guests

Comfortable beds
Clean rooms
Friendly staff
Great facilities
Excellent treatments

"Spa and treatments were amazing, with a nice relaxed atmosphere."

09amy from United Kingdom

read full review

"The room was exceptional, having a door that led out to a small patio , which proved convenient for our dog , with easy access to the beautiful grounds."

Steffi from United Kingdom

read full review

"The leisure facilities attached to the conference centre were first-class, with a better gym than some sports centres, and a swimming pool that you can actually get a workout in - both free to use for residents."

PinkyR from United Kingdom

read full review

4-star spa hotel in Cheshire woodland

Spa and Wellness Retreat

Craxton Wood Hotel & Spa is located within 27 acres of Cheshire woodland, offering a complete thermal suite including an aroma steam room, rock sauna, and ice shower. Guests can experience Rasul mud therapy, designed for relaxation and skin rejuvenation. The state-of-the-art Vital Health & Wellbeing Club also features an 18-meter swimming pool, creating a comprehensive wellness experience.

Dining Options

The hotel's Craxton Wood Grill serves classic British dishes made with seasonal ingredients. The restaurant provides stunning views of the hotel's gardens while guests enjoy their meals. There is also a dedicated cocktail bar and lounge for relaxation before or after dinner.

Accommodations

Rooms at Craxton Wood offer four-star comfort with garden or woodland views. All rooms come equipped with en-suite bathrooms featuring luxury toiletries for a pampering experience. Dogs are welcome in designated rooms, making it a pet-friendly choice.

Convenient Location

The hotel is just 15 minutes from Chester city center, ensuring easy access to local attractions. Its positioning allows for quick travel to major cities like Liverpool and Manchester, both within an hour's drive. On-site parking and electric vehicle charging points are available for guest convenience.

Business and Events

Craxton Wood Hotel & Spa boasts a self-contained conference center with six versatile meeting rooms, accommodating up to 300 attendees. Each room is flooded with natural light, providing an inspiring environment for corporate events. Tailored team-building sessions and evening entertainment options are also offered.

Highlights

Location: 15 minutes from Chester city center

Rooms: Designated pet-friendly accommodations

Dining: Craxton Wood Grill serving seasonal ingredients

Spa: Thermal suite with aroma steam room

Events: Capacity for up to 300 attendees

“Macdonald Craxton Wood Hotel & Spa has potential, particularly with its Cheshire woodland setting and proximity to Chester, but seems to need investment to match its four-star billing. The spa facilities appear to be a highlight, though inconsistently implemented across the property. For now, the value seems tied more to the location than to the overall hotel experience.”

Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Great

8.4/10Review score

View hotel on map

Highlights from guests

Spa & LeisurePoolside bliss!

The heated pool was great for relaxing. Plenty of loungers were available. Family swim times were allocated for children.

Megan from Wales

Review on

Guest ParkingPlenty space

There's lots of parking. It might not be right next to the hotel, so pack an umbrella just in case.

David from Scotland

Review on

BedroomSuper comfy!

The bed was very large. The rooms were spacious and quiet. I had a great night's sleep.

Emily from Canada

Review on

Sports & FitnessFirst-class facilities

The leisure facilities are top-notch. The gym is better than some sports centres. It's free for guests.

Kenji from Japan

Review on

View all

Select your room type

Macdonald Craxton Wood Hotel & Spa, Chester offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Twin Room Disability Access

2 persons

195 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Shower

room details

Standard Single Room

2 persons

195 sq. feet

1 Single bed

room details

Superior Double Room

2 persons

195 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Coffee machine

room details

Standard King Room

2 persons

195 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Bathtub

room details

Click button to see more rooms

Show all rooms

Show all roomsLess

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

Macdonald Craxton Wood Hotel & Spa, Chester offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Very good

7.4/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Free parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
Express check-in/ -out
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Security
Luggage storage
Locker room
Lift
Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre
Golf course
Yoga class
Sports trainer

Services

Room service
Housekeeping
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Snack bar
Bar/ Lounge area
Packed lunches
Special diet menus

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Children's menu
Children's play area

Spa & Leisure

Indoor swimming pool
Sun loungers
Sun terrace
Garden area
Leisure/ TV room
Spa & wellness centre
Sauna
Steam room
Pedicure
Manicure
Waxing
Body scrub
Facial
Treatment room
Body wraps
Massage
Shallow end

Room features

Heating
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Bathtub
Free toiletries

Dining Onsite

Indulge in delightful dining experiences at the Macdonald Craxton Wood Hotel & Spa, where culinary creativity shines through classic British dishes made with seasonal ingredients. Guests can relish diverse meal options tailored to various dietary preferences, all within a welcoming setting that enhances the joys of dining.

Macdonald Craxton Wood Hotel & Spa, Chester Ledsham Restaurant photo

The Grill @ Craxton Wood

Contemporary British

Ambiance

Charming and inviting, with a focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, creating a relaxed yet refined dining experience.

Key Offerings

Savor a sumptuous three-course meal followed by an evening buffet of BBQ or Hog Roast, and enjoy the option of afternoon tea crafted by talented chefs. Toast the evening with sparkling wine to celebrate special occasions.

Reservation

Recommended for dinner, especially during peak times.

Breakfast and Dinner; hours may vary.

Macdonald Craxton Wood Hotel & Spa, Chester Location

Parkgate Rd, Chester, Ledsham (Cheshire), United Kingdom, CH66 9PB

Map view

Parkgate Rd, Chester, Ledsham (Cheshire), United Kingdom, CH66 9PB

City landmarks

Garden

Gordale Garden Centre

1.2 mi

Landmark

Burton Mere Wetlands

4000 ft

Landmark

Two Mills Presbyterian Church

4100 ft

Landmark

DDL

4300 ft

Landmark

Badgers Rake Lane

1.1 mi

Nature reserve

RSPB Burton Mere Wetlands

1.9 mi

Landmark

St Michael's Church

1.7 mi

Landmark

Saint Nicholas

1.7 mi

Landmark

Missing Link

1.6 mi

Landmark

Shotwick Bridge

1.8 mi

Landmark

Heath Lane

1.9 mi

Garden

Ness Botanic Gardens

2.5 mi

Church

Parish Church Of John the Evangelist

2.2 mi

Landmark

Hooton Park Trust

2.3 mi

Event hall

Mad Dog Rehearsal studios

2.2 mi

Landmark

Royal British Legion

2.2 mi

Landmark

Shotwick Castle

2.5 mi

Landmark

The Bulls Head

2.2 mi

Landmark

The Wirral Way

2.3 mi

Landmark

Old Wirral Hundred

2.2 mi

Church

Christ Church

2.3 mi

Landmark

Olde Red Lion

2.3 mi

Golf Course

Ellesmere Port Golf Club

2.5 mi

Church

Little Sutton Methodist Church

2.3 mi

Landmark

Wings Club

2.3 mi

Landmark

St Paul's Church

2.4 mi

Landmark

Ness Seat

2.4 mi

Landmark

Flip Out

2.4 mi

Landmark

Ness Gardens Summerhouse

2.4 mi

Landmark

Street Hey Lane

2.5 mi

Nearby

Two Mills Presbyterian Church

3900 ft

Restaurants

Brewers Fayre Tudor Rose

2500 ft

Parkgate Road Wirral

Explore Ledsham (Cheshire)

Local Highlights

Burton Mere Wetlands

15 minutes' walk

A nature reserve with rich wildlife, offering birdwatching and unique visitor experiences in tranquil surroundings.

Gordale Garden Centre

25 minutes' walk

A charming garden center with a café, plants, and gifts, perfect for a leisurely stroll and a tasty treat.

Hiking on The Wirral Way

10 minutes' drive

A scenic walking trail with views of nature and the Dee Estuary, ideal for hiking enthusiasts or leisurely walks.

Spa Treatments at the Hotel

0 minutes' walk

Relaxing spa services available on-site, offering massage and wellness treatments for those seeking rejuvenation.

Brewers Fayre Tudor Rose

9 minutes' walk

A family-friendly pub offering classic British dishes and a casual atmosphere; perfect for a hearty meal after a day out.

Ristorante Da Marco

10 minutes' drive

An Italian restaurant known for its authentic dishes and warm atmosphere, featuring fresh pasta and seasonal specialties.

Mad Dog Rehearsal Studios

10 minutes' drive

A vibrant live music venue hosting local acts and events, providing an energetic atmosphere for music lovers.

Vue Cinema, Ellesmere Port

10 minutes' drive

A modern cinema featuring the latest films, offering a comfortable viewing experience for families and film enthusiasts alike.

Getting around

City Centre

Ledsham (Cheshire)17 min · 4600 ft

Airports

Chester Hawarden (CEG)25 min · 10.2 mi

Liverpool John Lennon (LPL)62 min · 25.4 mi

Bus

Bus stop9 min · 3.6 mi

Want to see Exclusive Early Booking Rate?

Get exlusive rates right now!

Check Rates

Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Breakfast

You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs GBP24 per person per day.

Children & extra beds

There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Languages

English, Spanish, Hungarian, Polish

Year renovated:

2011

Number of rooms:

Former name

Macdonald Craxton Wood Hotel

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Macdonald Craxton Wood Hotel & Spa, Chester from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Macdonald Craxton Wood Hotel & Spa is often appreciated for its location near Chester and the motorway, offering a tranquil countryside setting. Many guests find the rooms spacious, clean, and well-designed, and enjoy the leisure center facilities, including the heated pool. The breakfast offers a great variety, although some have noted that cooked food comes with an extra charge or can be basic, and the hotel's decor may appear dated in places. it's considered good value for money for a relaxing stay.

Show moreShow less

Review score

Based on 1055 verified reviews

6.8/10

Nice

59%

Recommend

Location

8.4/10

Staff

8.3/10

Paid Wi-Fi

6.7/10

Value for money

7.2/10

Pros

Friendly staff

Clean rooms

Comfortable bed

Good breakfast

Good parking

Cons

Scalding shower

Slow service

Rowan from United Kingdom

Single

Deluxe King Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 14, 2026

9.0/10

surprisingly pleased with recent stay

inviting classfun boxerciseclean facilitiespeaceful garden

I liked the gym instructors, matt's classes were planned well and inviting. tammy's boxercise was fun and suited every level. sharon kept facilities very clean. More sharons are needed. gardens provide a peaceful backdrop, a nice escape from the city.

a slight issue, the receptionist seemed not very helpful when i raised a minor problem.

Dining

9/10

i found the breakfast people really nice, one man who seated us was pleasant. he made my morning start well. the food tasted great and had a wide variety to choose from.

Rooms

8/10

my beautiful king room was quiet. the linen was clean. the room included tea and coffee making facilities. the television had many digital channels to keep people entertained when relaxing in the room.

Service

10/10

the staff provided friendly care. emma and lilly in spa were very good. jonathan who served lunch deserve special mention. they were very good in providing excellent customer care.

Facilities

9/10

the sauna, steam room, and pool are included in stay. the pool looked clean. the gym has updated equipment. the gym was a great addition, allowing fitness routines to continue whilst i was away.

0 Helpful

Show less

Olivia from United Kingdom

Family with children

Deluxe King Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 09, 2026

9.0/10

A Nice Stay

quick servicedelicious burgerscomplimentary waterelemis toiletries

The staff sorted out my room type quickly. The food was great. I had breakfast and an evening meal at the bar. The burgers were delicious. I enjoyed complimentary still and fizzy water on tap in the corridors. I also loved the Elemis toiletries provided in the bathroom.

Service

9/10

The staff offered quick solutions to room issues, and i observed pleasant interactions. The staff demonstrated efficiency and care. This attention greatly enhanced my overall visit.

Dining

9/10

The bar features offered great food options with delicious burgers. The breakfast service was commendable. The restaurant area is attractively designed. I saw people enjoying their meals.

Facilities

8/10

Complimentary still and fizzy water were available on tap in the corridors. I found this amenity very convenient. i also appreciated the hotel's attention to detail and guest comfort.

Rooms

10/10

The room included Elemis toiletries in the bathroom, a luxurious touch i appreciated. The rooms provide good comfort. It had nice features that i thought were useful

0 Helpful

Ava from United Kingdom

Family with children

Standard Family Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 02, 2026

8.5/10

A Nice Family Trip

really good serviceclean hotelfamily-friendly atmospherewarm demeanor

The staff offered really good service , with abby and elizabeth standing out. professional demeanor. i found the hotel nice and neat. The family-friendly atmosphere enhanced our stay. even residents were engaging. It was a positive surprise.

I noticed during my overnight stay that the room decor looked a little tired. This is something i hope to see addressed in future visits.

Dining

9/10

I found the breakfast choice offered a good variety, and staff were efficient. They promptly took orders. great food and prompt service ensured a satisfying dining experience. it added positively to my visit.

Facilities

8/10

The use of facilities was free, and i valued this greatly. It was a bonus. i appreciate the convenience of still and sparkling water accessible in the hallway near the rooms. access to the sauna and pool provided enjoyable relaxation options.

0 Helpful

isabella from italy

Single

standard king room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 28, 2025

9.0/10

charmed by my recent escape

quiet atmospheregenerous roomsuper clean bathroomdog-friendly space

The location was easy to find, very close to the motorway. i appreciated the quiet and calm atmosphere of the hotel. our room and bathroom were generously sized and spotlessly clean. i was thrilled to find plenty of space for my dog to exercise. It felt very dog-friendly.

i noticed a few cobwebs and some minor debris in the corridors.

Rooms

9/10

The room had everything i needed for my stay, including warm and very comfortable spaces, even if a new paint job would make it even better. The bed was amazing!!!

Dining

8/10

I found the breakfast to be lovely, with a very good selection of options and very well cooked items. The dining area was clean and well kept, very much appreciated.

Service

10/10

The staff went out of their way to ensure i had everything i needed. They were very helpful and friendly!!!

0 Helpful

geoffrey from united kingdom

Couple

standard king room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 20, 2025

8.7/10

wonderful stay

easy check-influffy towelsuperb breakfastdinner choice

check-in was quick and quite easy. the room included robes and slippers along with fluffy white towels! breakfast was superb. there was plenty of choice of cereals, jams, toast, cheese, ham, fruit, and pastries available. dinner options included rack of lamb and catch of the day like trout.

I experienced some delay at the bar. It took 25 minutes to receive service which prompted me to request assistance from reception.

Rooms

9/10

the standard king room was warm and clean, with a lovely en suite bathroom with elemis toiletries. tea and coffee facilities were available with a kettle and a filtered water tap located outside the room. i enjoyed the view of the lawns and garden at the rear of the hotel.

Service

9/10

the hotel staff are very lovely and helpful. the spa facilities, like the pool, sauna, and steam room, were free to use. options existed to book a treatment or upgrade to the thermal suite for an additional fee.

Dining

8/10

dinner included options like rack of lamb, catch of the day, fish and chips, and curry. breakfast presented a wide array of cereals, jams, toast, cheese, ham, fruit, and pastries. full english options were cooked freshly and served at the table.

0 Helpful

Steven from United Kingdom

Standard Double Room

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: December 08, 2025

9.0/10

Quite charmed by the stay

ample choicelovely en suitesimple checkwarm room

Checking in was simple. The room had warmth to it. It had a lovely en suite with Elemis toiletries. I found tea and coffee facilities with a kettle inside the room and a jug with glasses too. Breakfast proved superb with generous choice, a pleasure to start my day.

The room felt a little tired to me. I hope the hotel addresses the issue soon.

Facilities

8/10

The pool, sauna, and steam room are available for free. Spa treatments are available at an extra charge. The hotel included a gym, though I did not use it. Access to outside space exists for smokers.

Rooms

9/10

The room included robes and slippers. Fluffy white towels were also provided. My room offered a rear view of the lawns and garden. A filtered water tap was located nearby the room.

Dining

10/10

Dinner options included rack of lamb for £34 and catch of the day being trout for £18. The hotel included other choices like fish and chips for £20. A bottle of wine had a price of £27.

0 Helpful

Ava from United States

Family with children

Standard Double Room

3 nights in June 2025

Reviewed: July 01, 2025

9/10

floating noodlesspacious areariver entrance

The pool had floating noodles. I used them to ease my pregnancy back pain. i found spacious areas both inside and outside. greenery surrounded the location, and a little river passed by the entrance.

I mistakenly thought it was included.

0 Helpful

Questions of the users

About Macdonald Craxton Wood Hotel & Spa, Chester

Can guests enjoy free access to the leisure facilities like the pool and sauna during their stay?

28 November 2024

Guests can take advantage of complimentary use of the gym and leisure facilities, including the pool, sauna, and steam room. Access to the spa's thermal suite and relaxation rooms is available for a £20 fee, which includes robes and slippers.

Is the hotel welcoming for pets, and is there an additional fee for bringing a dog?

15 July 2024

The hotel is dog-friendly and charges £15 for each dog's stay.

Will families have the option of spacious accommodations, especially for parents with children?

3 March 2025

Family rooms are available, accommodating options such as a double bed plus one or two singles. It's tailored for families, providing adequate sleeping arrangements.

What unique features does the thermal suite include for relaxation?

21 April 2024

The thermal suite features two luxurious foot spas, experience showers, a traditional rock sauna, a herbal sauna, a steam room, and a heated seating area, with direct access to the pool.

Are there restrictions on where dogs are allowed within the hotel premises?

8 February 2025

Dogs are permitted in certain areas of the hotel, specifically excluding the spa and leisure areas, restaurant, and bar.

What options are available regarding family accommodations for two adults and two children?

12 June 2024

Two types of family rooms are available, one featuring a double and a single bed, and another with a double bed and two single beds, making them suitable for a family of four.

How can guests access the Chester Zoo from the hotel via public transport?

15 September 2024

A bus runs from outside the hotel to Chester, where guests can transfer to another bus from Chester Station directly to the zoo. Taking a taxi may be more efficient for this trip.

Is there a pre-booking requirement for the pool, spa, or restaurant dining?

10 October 2024

Yes, pre-booking is necessary for all facilities including the pool, spa, and restaurant to ensure a smooth experience.

What are designated swimming times for children at the pool?

6 January 2025

Children can swim during designated times from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

Does the spa offer treatments solely for adults?

9 August 2024

Spa treatments and packages are generally reserved for adults, though children's spa treatments may be available. It's recommended to inquire directly for specific arrangements.