Are you seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Look no further than these luxurious UK spa destinations that offer a perfect blend of relaxation, rejuvenation, and exquisite experiences.
Coastal Bliss: No.42, Margate
Nestled on the charming Kent coast, just a short train or car ride from London, No.42, Margate offers a unique escape for those seeking a seaside sanctuary. This haven is a stone’s throw from the beach, with easy access to the Turner Contemporary art gallery and a selection of delicious restaurants. The inviting, coastal-themed rooms, adorned with natural woods, cream fabrics, and traditional rolltop baths, create a soothing ambiance. However, the true highlight is the award-winning spa that boasts exceptional treatments. The Copper Cove, a two-person 90-minute experience, is a must-try. This indulgent treatment begins with a relaxing magnesium salt-infused bath in a spacious copper tub, followed by an invigorating massage that includes a soothing scalp treatment. Leave your worries behind and float out of No.42 feeling refreshed and revitalized.
A Historic Estate with Modern Wellness: The Spa at Chewton Glen
Just an hour from London lies Chewton Glen, a magnificent stately home nestled within 400 acres of breathtaking British countryside. This former favorite retreat of Winston Churchill offers an exceptional spa experience, transporting you to another realm upon entering its remarkable stained glass staircase. In addition to the traditional facial and massage treatments, you can indulge in a variety of specialized therapies, such as IV infusions, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and naturopathy, which change seasonally. One notable experience is the Seasonal Autumnal Nourishment treatment, which combines hot and cold therapies to revitalize the mind and detoxify the body. The newest addition, the Meadow Hut, is a tranquil standalone cabin set in a wild meadow. This bespoke treatment, designed to cocoon and rejuvenate, includes a mind-soothing sound bath and a full body massage, creating a truly immersive and memorable experience. With both indoor and outdoor pools, Chewton Glen is an ideal year-round destination for a holistic wellness retreat.
Family-Friendly Indulgence: Foxhills, Surrey
Just an hour’s drive from London, Foxhills in Ottershaw, Surrey, offers a diverse wellness experience that caters to the entire family. The resort boasts an impressive array of amenities, including five swimming pools, two championship 18-hole golf courses, a nine-hole course, and a wide range of children’s activities. The spa provides a range of treatments from luxurious Elemis facials and massages to targeted sports therapy. The facilities include steam rooms, Finnish saunas, a yoga cabin, a cycle studio, and a spa garden featuring a natural, chemical-free swimming pool purified by plants and minerals, providing an invigorating open water bathing experience. The family pavilion offers a wealth of entertainment options for children, allowing parents to fully enjoy their spa treatments.
A Historic Retreat with Modern Amenities: The Signet Spa, The Retreat at Elcot Park
Recently renovated and reopened this summer, The Signet Spa at The Retreat at Elcot Park in West Berkshire is a historic retreat steeped in tradition. This former country home of Lady Shelley, mother of poet Percy Bysshe Shelley, provides a tranquil setting for a rejuvenating escape. The spa excels in water-based experiences, with a spacious heated outdoor pool, allowing guests to enjoy a refreshing swim year-round. Inside, the hydrothermal suite boasts a “wellness pool” with bubble loungers and water cannons, offering an invigorating sensory experience. The spa utilizes the UK-based organic aromatherapy brand ila Spa for their facial and massage treatments. Non-guests are welcome to experience the spa’s offerings, but joining the Signet Spa Club unlocks unlimited access to the pools, complimentary PT sessions, and access to the tennis courts and spin studio.
A Tranquil Escape in the English Countryside: Ragdale Hall
Nestled in the scenic countryside of Leicestershire, Ragdale Hall provides a picturesque retreat from the city without a lengthy journey. This unique destination focuses on health, beauty, and wellbeing, offering a laid-back and personalized experience for every guest, whether you’re staying overnight or enjoying a day spa. The vast spa facilities feature a variety of pools, each providing a distinctive experience. The rooftop infinity pool with massage jets offers stunning countryside views, while the candlelit pool creates a tranquil haven for relaxation. The thermal spa offers a range of spaces to revitalize the mind and body, including the “Colourflow Cave”, a volcanic salt bath, and a rose sauna. For a truly unique treatment, try the Balinese massage, developed specifically for Ragdale Hall. This 90-minute treatment, inspired by Indonesian traditions, incorporates long and strong movements, perfect for improving circulation, releasing toxins, and boosting energy levels.
A Luxurious Haven in the Heart of England: Sequoia Spa
Less than an hour’s drive from central London, the luxurious Sequoia Spa provides a fulfilling experience for both seasoned spa-goers and newcomers. The highlights include the inviting black mosaic tiled pool, the Natura Bissé and ESPA treatments, and a rotating program of wellness programs and residencies. Sequoia Spa is one of only a few ESPA and Wellness for Cancer spas, offering “Be Nurtured” treatments designed specifically for those living with or recovering from cancer. Recently, the spa has introduced Bamford treatments, offering holistic experiences like the Wellness Facial, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. They have also incorporated Western and Eastern massage techniques, such as shiatsu, Swedish, and Ancient Thai massage, into their treatments for the ultimate massage experience. The gym features the latest Technogym and Peloton equipment, and the fitness studio hosts a variety of classes. The recently renovated Mansion suites, designed by Martin Hulbert Design, blend Georgian features with modern elegance. Before departing, be sure to enjoy a relaxing stroll through the walled garden, which transforms into an Everyman outdoor cinema and a beach during the summer months.
Historic Charm Meets Modern Luxury: Hartwell House Spa
Just over an hour from London, Hartwell House boasts a beautifully restored Georgian stately home, featuring the impressive Little Bothy spa. The treatment rooms, designed with the utmost comfort in mind, resemble chic living rooms, complete with luxurious massage beds. The spa offers bespoke Wildsmith face and body treatments, utilizing the house’s excellent homegrown skincare line, named for the original horticulturist, William Wildsmith. Additional amenities include Bodyism gym facilities and classes, along with a range of alternative treatments such as osteopathy, psychotherapy, reiki, and craniosacral therapy. For a truly indulgent escape, Hartwell House Spa is a haven of relaxation and rejuvenation. This National Trust-owned manor house, where Louis XVIII, exiled King of France, and his wife Marie Josephine held court from 1809 to 1814, exudes a sense of history and grandeur. Prepare for a Bridgerton-inspired experience, with maximalist sitting rooms, expansive grounds, and elaborate afternoon teas. The historic charm is beautifully contrasted with the high-tech treatments available at the spa. Hartwell House is one of the few spas in the UK to offer treatments from celebrity-favorite 111 Skincare, including cryotherapy, quartz stone massage, and the redness-eliminating Signature Harley Street Facial. The spa also features a steam room, sauna, and an exceptionally stylish swimming pool.
Nature-Inspired Tranquility: Lime Wood Hotel
Nestled amidst the protected ancient forest and farmland of the New Forest, Lime Wood Hotel offers a delightful escape in a 33-bedroom house that blends exquisite interior design with unparalleled comfort. The hotel boasts exceptional cuisine by Luke Holder and Angela Hartnett, and a warm, welcoming staff. The dreamy Herb House spa utilizes biophilic design to promote a sense of relaxation, with trees visible from the sauna and pool. The spa offers bespoke treatments from Bamford, Sarah Chapman, Voya, and Ground, ensuring there is a muscle-melting massage or glow-enhancing facial for everyone. We recommend Ground’s The Cleansing Ritual, a two-hour treatment that stimulates the lymphatic system, promoting healthy digestion, releasing stagnated energy, and encouraging gut harmony. This restorative experience is perfect for a revitalizing autumn reset.
