Looking for your next pampering getaway? From scenic countryside hideaways to chic city splendour, here’s where to find five of the best UK spa hotels
1 The Gainsborough Bath Spa, Bath
Best for: Thermal waters
The spa: For something soothing (in superb surroundings) it’s time to book a stay at The Gainsborough Bath Spa. Tapping into the original thermal springs, the Spa Village Bath offers a contemporary perspective on the city’s thermal water heritage. Think thermal pools, mighty massage jets, ice alcoves and thermal fountains.
The menu: This spa, set beneath a glass atrium within this Leading Hotel, also offers a number of treatments, from aquatic body therapy to massages. /We love the Renew with rose, an anti-aging, rejuvenating facial that nourished skin with a facial inspired by restorative organic fruits and flowers.
The rooms: Created by award-winning Champalimaud Design, the rooms and suites here are custom furnished, mingling archaic style with contemporary features. Five-star details are a plenty – think iPod docking station, lavish bedding, a flat screen and even radiant heated bathroom floors.
Start the experience: Visit thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk or phone 01225 358888 to make a booking.
2 Barnsley House, Cirencester
Best for: A country retreat
The spa: Need to switch off and hide away from the world? Grab your favourite read and head to Barnsley House’s spa in the Cotswolds. Hidden away from the main house, total luxury awaits.
Filled with natural vibes aplenty, the outside elements have been reflected within by designer Stephen Woodhams. Think wooden beams, Cotswold stone and plants – all working together to create a peaceful, secluded space. A no-stress zone, fluffy robes and relaxation awaits… as well as tranquil ELEMIS products.
The menu: Make the most of the sauna, steam room and stylish outdoor hydrotherapy pool. Treatments here are mainly based on Aromatherapy Associates products, with state-of-the-art facials also available.
The rooms: Think ultra-chic, ultra-private and ultra-relaxing. Recline within the natural beauty of the Cotswolds and simply soak in the surroundings at this luxury honey-stone village. The contemporary rooms make the ideal place to unwind post-spa or snooze off a feast at The Potager restaurant.
Start the experience: Visit barnsleyhouse.com or phone 01285 740000 to make a booking.
3 The Lanesborough Club & Spa, London
Best for: Something exclusive
The spa: When you’re out for all out indulgence, it’s time for The Lanesborough Club & Spa. Crowned the World’s Best New Hotel Spa 2017 at the World Spa Awards™, this city spa, perfectly positioned between Knightsbridge and Mayfair, is one of London’s most exclusive private members’ fitness and health clubs and spa. Fitness, beauty and rejuvenation – you’ll find the holy trio of spa pillars here.
The menu: Enjoy much-loved spa and beauty brands ila and La Prairie, as well as facial and beauty expert Anastasia Achilleos. Treatments include massages, facials, manicures and bespoke sessions with resident practitioners. Whether you wish to be pummelled or pampered, you’ll find both here.
The rooms: Enjoy your very own private butler, luxurious interiors and modern amenities galore. Rooms are vast, deluxe and decadent to the core.
Start the experience: Visit oetkercollection.com or phone 020 7259 5599 to make a booking.
4 Pennyhill Park, Surrey
Best for: The foodies
The spa: Nestled within 123 outstanding acres of beautiful Surrey woodland, Pennyhill Park is a 19th century country house that comes with both Michelin starred dining and an award-winning spa. Retreat from the world and robe up instead. With both spa days and spa breaks on offer, it’s ideal for both a little or a lot of rejuvenation.
The menu: Indulge in a number of facilities. Submerge yourself in one of the eight indoor or outdoor pools and hot tubs or recline in the sensory relaxation lounge. Don’t forget a visit to the herbal steam rooms, laconiums and chilly ice cave. Treatments include an array of facials, scrubs, massages and holistic therapies. We love the Diamond Rose Body Ritual – and you can never go wrong with a manicure.
The rooms: Good news for the foodies – there’s something for every appetite. Keep it sin-free at the health-based Themis restaurant or indulge with a course (or eight) at The Latymer, the on-site Michelin-starred restaurant.
Start the experience: Visit exclusive.co.uk or phone 01276 471774 to make a booking.
5 Coworth Park, Berkshire
Best for: Something stylish
The spa: Not only did Prince Harry spent the night here before his wedding, but Coworth Park also boasts a rather stupendous spa. Innovative and environmentally-friendly, this sculpture-filled and half-hidden spa is ideal for a sophisticated spa experience.
The menu: Explore eight treatment rooms, plate up at the Spatisserie serving light meals, work out a modern Technogym or take a dip in the heated pool – it even comes with underwater music. From mud massages to soothing facials, there’s something for everyone. We love the Target Tension Massage, an ideal choice for getting those knots out once and for all.
The rooms: There’s place of space to let off steam – think 240 acres of grounds with tennis courts and an equestrian centre to boot. Rooms are contemporary yet comfortable, with Vi-Spring beds, flatscreen Bang + Olufsen TVs, handy Nespresso machines and pampering Mitchell and Peach bath products (just in case the spa isn’t quite relaxing enough).
Start the experience: Visit dorchestercollection.com or phone 01344 876600 to make a booking.
