With modern life getting more hectic by the day, everybody needs a little relaxation and pampering once in a while. While many opt for holidays in the sun to help them unwind, we've focussed on options closer to home with a look at some of the most premier and luxury spas in Britain.
Hoar Cross Spa, Staffordshire
Set in a Grade II listed stately home deep in the heart of rural Staffordshire, your transition into a world of relaxation begins as you enter through the majestic turreted archway leading into the grounds and make your way to the picturesque Hoar Cross Hall.
There are a plenitude of treatments and facilities to help you unwind at Hoar Cross Hall Spa such as their collection of tranquil pools. Choose between a 26m saltwater vitality pool featuring volcano and jet massage areas, two whirlpools and a mystical starlit cave, or opt for the hydrotherapy pool to ease any muscle or joint pains. You can then treat yourself to a variety of aqua massages, aqua detoxes in saunas and steam rooms, specialist sensory showers including cold mist, hot body jets and cold foot massagers, or stimulate the body in a cold plunge pool. There’s also the option to kick back in one of Hoar Cross Hall’s many relaxation areas, including heated loungers, poolside beds and outdoor terraces - plenty of choice to give you peace of mind.
One Spa, Edinburgh
The One Spa at Sheraton Hotel offers the perfect place to unwind when in Scotland’s capital. Set right in the city centre, this spa is ideal for those who also want to get out and explore the beautiful streets of Edinburgh.
One Spa boasts a luxurious heated rooftop pool high above the hustle and bustle of the city with perfect views over Edinburgh Castle, and the 19m pool is surrounded by vast light and space to offer a truly calming environment. A number of heat treatments inspired by the Romans and Celts are available in the spa’s thermal suite, such as a gently heated Laconium, blissfully scented Aroma Grotto, warming Tepidarium, refreshing Rainforest showers and Rock & Bio saunas. There is also a Serail Mud Chamber which uses soothing mud help to eliminate toxins and induce relaxation. Other treatments include massages, facials, body wraps, exfoliation, hot stones, waxing, tinting, and specialist men’s only and pregnancy treatments.
Thermae Bath Spa, Bath
Thermae Bath Spa in the historic city of Bath is located on an ancient Roman and Celt site with natural springs dating back 10,000 years. The thermal waters contain over 42 different minerals, perfect for rejuvenating and relaxing the body. You can enjoy these ancient waters at the spa’s Cross Bath, where there is an open air thermal pool and an extensive list of luxury spa treatments.
Alternatively you can opt for the New Royal Bath, with its rooftop pool enhanced by air seats and bubbling jets so you can sit and enjoy spectacular views over the City of Bath and the surrounding area. The New Royal Bath also features the Minerva Bath – the largest of their thermal baths - distinguished by flowing curves and grand columns, these thermal waters are complemented by an invigorating massage jet and whirlpool.
Ushvani, London
If the hectic London lifestyle has left you feeling a little worn-out then there’s no better place to unwind than the city’s premier luxury day spa, Ushvani. Hidden away in the centre of Chelsea, this Malaysian-inspired spa was founded by Usha Arumugam after four years of researching and refining her vision, and it has surely paid off as Ushvani has since twice been voted as the UK’s best day spa.
Facilities at Ushvani include their ostentatious spa pool and steam room, five state-of-the-art treatment rooms, a couples suite, relaxation room, sentosa studio for yoga, pilates and mediation and a tea room serving Ushvani’s signature hibiscus tea. The spa has a long list of treatments, varying from massages, enhancements, facials and much more, and you can even take some of the experience home by picking up some in-house spa products from the Ushvani store.
Rockliffe Hall Spa, County Durham
Located in the quaint County Durham countryside on the banks of the River Tees, Rockliffe Hall, is the perfect location for those who wish to unwind with the opportunity to explore the stunning coastlines and moors of the North.
AA five red star rated and set over 50,000sq ft, the Rockliffe Hall Spa isn’t short on options when it comes to relaxation and being pampered. Loosen up in their 20m indoor heated pool whilst spa butlers serve you champagne and fresh fruit juice or head to the ultra-modern Technogym to further exercise your muscles. If that’s not enough there are a plethora of other options including Tibetan Sound massages and the Sacred Moments, Body Bliss and Relax and Renew treatments. For the utmost in relaxation why not choose the Tranquility Ritual, a 90 minute treatment with luxury oils, warm towels and a sensual scalp massage.
(Written by Jake Gauntley)