If you’re looking for some ‘me-time’, going to the spa alone can be enjoyable and rewarding. Slip into a robe for some cosy cocooning in a relaxation room. Curl up with your favourite book, flick through a magazine, or simply meditate to clear your thoughts. Step into the steam room or sauna and soak up some heat while it works magic on your skin. Then refresh yourself afterwards by bubbling in a hydrotherapy pool, and maybe swim some lengths in a swimming pool. And don’t forget to indulge in a treatment for the ultimate pampering experience!
Tucked within the grounds of a 14th century hotel, Weavers' House Spa offers a light-filled spa space which complements the low beams and sloping floors of the Swan at Lavenham Hotel. This is a spa where you can enjoy an intimate spa experience with good service and a restful atmosphere. Relax in the lounge with views out onto the hydrotherapy pool spa garden (a beautiful sun trap in summer) or indulge in a signature ‘swan’ treatment for some serious pampering. A lovely spa to escape the world and just be.
Enjoy stunning views of the Ribble Valley hills while soaking in a hydrotherapy pool or stimulating your senses in the thermal suite at Stanley House Spa. Guest entry is limited to eight people, so you'll always find peaceful spa-ing while the views and mood-lighting cast a serene ambience over your spa journey. There are also hydro-bathing spa suites for extra private spa time. The spa at Stanley House is a modern addition to the 17th century manor house, but we love how well the two buildings blend together for a continuous spa experience.
The Spa in Dolphin Square, London
The Spa in Dolphin Square is the perfect refuge after a morning's shopping. The spa is subterranean, with a beautiful small courtyard trapping the sun on lighter days. You’ll feel you’re in a real Moroccan retreat, and will soon forget the busy streets of London. Book in for a sensual Moroccan treatment, and cocoon in the deep relaxation room or warming tepidarium. Further facilities (including the hammam) are paid-for extras, so it’s likely you’ll have them to yourself if you choose this option. Sit back, sip tea and dream of exotic places…
For serious spa goers who like to be pampered, The Vineyard Spa is the height of luxury. A serene, almost-private atmosphere is created as only a few guests can use the spa at a time. Have a swim in the pool, with or against its current, and work tired shoulder muscles with the massage jets. Then wander down to the steam and sauna rooms and enjoy a hot tub session before snoozing on the poolside loungers. Good facilities, excellent treatments, and attentive personal service make this a very special spa. In the evening we love how warm and snug the spa feels with the night time darkness surrounding the glass walls.
Cotswold House, Gloucestershire
A soothing place for a few hours' time-out, Cotswold House is an intimate spa in a converted coach house with delightful garden views. The treatment rooms are decorated in warm colours and soothing tones, and there’s a steam room and hydrotherapy pool. Although small, the spa is a beautiful and peaceful place. Enjoy a session in the warm water or hot steam room, and relax in front of the glass wall overlooking the garden. We love that with few people using the facilities, you’ll feel you’ve stumbled across a “best-kept secret” spa.
Scarlet Spy
28th September 2015
Spy Likes:
Nature-inspired spas, cold water plunges, sound baths, deep tissue massage, delicious food.
Spy Dislikes:
Thin walls in treatment rooms, loungers hoggers, bright lights
