Relax and Rejuvenate: 5 of the Best Spas Just 2 Hours From London.
Best Spas close to London? You don’t have to travel far to make getting through the colder months that little bit more bearable. Whether you fancy a long soak in an outdoor sauna, a rejuvenating facial or a relaxing massage, the UK is home to numerous luxurious and indulgent spa retreats and many of them located only two hours from London. Treat yourself to a restful break a little closer to home. Here’s a round-up of some of the UK’s best spas for spring rejuvenation…
The Gainsborough, Bath Spa
This is, in fact, the only hotel in the UK where guests can ‘take the waters’ and soak in natural thermal water making it on of the best spas. The healing properties of the water (42 minerals to be exact) are said to reduce stress, relieve pain and promote sleep and as rumour has it, Jeremy Clarkson allegedly had one of the best sleeps of his life after soaking in the Spa. For the complete experience, the spa also features traditional and infrared saunas, a steam room and the Lavender Ice Alcove (an ice chamber). Body treatments, massages and facials are available in the separate treatment rooms with the Peppermint Facial working wonders on tired and dull skin leaving my face with a luminous glow. Each guest is also given a personalised aroma blend pouch with essential oil-infused sea salt which is encouraged to inhale from throughout the circuit and can later be used in a private bath.
Where: The Gainsborough Bath Spa Beau Street, Bath BA1 1QY
Website: www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk
Dormy House, Worcestershire
The House Spa has been winning awards since the day it opened, offering guests an indoor/outdoor blend of soothing therapies, serene pool and terrace hot tub, and Scandi-style thermal suite.Lined with comfy loungers and atmospherically illuminated with candlelight. The spa’s 16m indoor infinity pool is the perfect spot for a few leisurely lengths. Facilities include thermal and hydrotherapy areas, a Rasul Mud Room, a nail parlour, treatment rooms and the wonderful Greenhouse spa cafe.
Where: Dormy House Hotel, Willersey Hill, Broadway Worcestershire WR12 7LF
Website: www.dormyhouse.co.uk
Cliveden House, Berkshire
A by-word for luxury, Cliveden has a reputation for opulence and exceedingly high standards – and deservedly so. Lose yourself, as you become the very special temporary custodian of a bedroom in this beautiful house and all it has to offer. Hidden in the grounds, The Cliveden Spa is a paradise of calm and sumptuous experiences designed to relax and rejuvenate. Decadent treatments and spa rituals are a given, but it’s the sense of history within the spa facilities including the infamous Profumo pool that will stay with you forever.
Where: Cliveden Road, Taplow, Maidenhead SL6 0JF
Website: www.clivedenhouse.co.uk
Lime Wood Hotel & Spa
Herb House Spa is a spa dedicated to natural well-being and inspired by its forest surroundings. Designed over three levels, Herb House has a massive Sauna and indoor Hydro Pool with stunning forest views, a Mud House, a steaming outdoor Hot Pool, eight spacious single treatment rooms and two magnificent double treatment rooms – the perfect place to escape from the world in the heart of the New Forest. The 16-metre ozone-treated indoor lap pool with glass doors overlooking the garden, and Hands and Feet room for manis and pedis and a workout studio offering an extensive range of fitness classes.
Where: Lime Wood, Beaulieu Rd, Lyndhurst, Hampshire SO43 7FZ England
Website: www.limewoodhotel.co.uk
Beaverbrook Hotel & Spa, Surrey
With 400-acres of grounds to explore, this gorgeous hotel has as much to offer outdoors as it does indoors, but the spa is simply exquisite so make that your first stop, especially if relaxation is your priority. Uniquely designed with stained glass windows as a feature, you’ll be bathed in gemstone hues as you enjoy the thermal facilities, including The English Bath House – a variation on the traditional Hammam. As well as a menu of decadent treatments and holistic therapies, there’s a resident naturopath available and a dedicated spa deli for a light bite to eat.
Where: Reigate Rd, Leatherhead KT22 8QX
Website: www.beaverbrook.co.uk
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