I love spa breaks, I always have. There is nothing like that feeling of relaxation you get when you check into your lovely spa room, put down your bags and then flop on your bed! I then know that have at least 24 hours where I can swan around in my swim suit, robe and slippers and take it easy. No cooking, no cleaning and no work! If I really want to treat myself, then I book myself in for a facial, Indian head massage or some reflexology. I also like to book in for shellac nails, as then, in the couple of weeks afterwards whenever I look at my hands, I am reminded of the lovely tranquillity of the spa!
I have been very lucky to try some incredible spa breaks in the UK (as well as abroad, remind me to tell you about a singular full body massage I received in an Ayurvedic spa in Southern India some day!).
I recently visited the Swinton Country Club and Spa, which really must rank as one of the top spas in Northern England. It’s huge with so many different (and plush) facilities and relaxation areas. They have a large pool, a smaller spa pool, with temperatures akin to a hot tub, and outdoor natural eco pool, jacuzzis, hot tubs as well as experience saunas and steam rooms. It’s situated in the grounds of The Swinton Estate, set in a beautiful location in North Yorkshire. If you get chance to try it, you really must.
Another great Northern spa to consider is the Titanic Spa in Huddersfield (not far from Manchester). It’s set in a large converted mill and is very imposing on the horizon. The entire ground floor is taken up by the spa, with rooms above. There is a large swimming pool, with poolside sauna and jacuzzi, overlooked by a well stocked gym (I don’t go in there, I just like the nice spa facilities!). At the other end of the building is the Heat and Ice suite which is make up of several experience rooms like a salt room, sauna and different styles of steam rooms. There are drench showers dotted around to help you cool off and in the centre for the very brave there is an icy plunge pool (no-way was I going in there!). There were also foot spas which are nice to sit at for a break and a chat with friends. The Titanic Spa also has a magnificent relaxation room, with beds and beanbags scattered around, and every type of magazine imaginable for your reading delight!
Or why not try Zen Lifestyle Spa in Edinburgh?
If you are looking for a smaller, more boutique spa, in a city location, then try The Grand in York. The hotel itself is situated in York City Centre, so you could really make a weekend of it, spending a day in the spa and a day exploring beautiful, historic York. York also has some marvellous restaurants and wine bars. Just round the corner from the Grand you will find the Principal hotel where they do cocktail or gin making masterclasses which would be a perfect addition to your spa break!
For a spa further South in the UK, I would recommend the spa at Wyboston Lakes, in Bedfordshire. It’s part of a large complex, and would be ideal for a girls spa weekend away or hen night. The bedrooms are large, modern and luxurious equipped with the latest technology. The spa itself has experience steam rooms and saunas as well as exotic scented showers. There is a hot outside pool with drench points and bubbles. There is even an outdoor fireplace so you can sit al fresco and stay warm.
Wherever you choose for your spa break, have a lovely and relaxing time!