The Spa at Breedon Priory

First Impressions

The Spa at Breedon Priory is a contemporary, no-expense-spared glass-fronted spa sunk into the landscape in peaceful Derbyshire. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook an impeccably landscaped gardens and 24 acres of countryside in the charming village of Melbourne (not of Australian fame), with its boutique shops and Georgian architecture.

What's on offer?

Park across the road from the two-storey, purpose-built spa and walk down the few steps that lead to reception. Flooded with natural light due to tall ceilings, a central Italian panoramic fireplace sets the scene, while wooden dressers display a range of products by Temple Spa, Tribe517, Proverb Skin and Germaine de Capuccini.

We were warmly greeted by Lisa at reception, who presented us with a welcome cup of hot chocolate and a cloth which expanded on contact with water to create a cleansing ritual. We were then introduced to our Spa Host, Antonio, who took us on a personal tour of the spa.

Antonio left us at the spacious changing room with its pale wood floor, pale grey metro wall tiles and lemon-hued walls. Open your allocated sage green locker with your wristband; you’ll find a stone-coloured robe, a large towel and flip-flops inside.

There are large leather benches by which - plus private cubicles in which - to change, as well as three toilets – with baskets of freshly-rolled flannels to dry your hands - and five showers stocked with Temple Spa shampoo, conditioner and body wash. Try out the vast range of complimentary Temple Spa products at the vanity area; GHD hairdryers and straighteners are on hand for post-spa preening.

A door from here leads to the Wellbeing Suite; awaken the senses in the experience shower with its tropical rain, cool rain and cold mist settings, before warming up in the Himalayan Salt Sauna with its large window overlooking the spa garden. Get toasty in the Herbal Sauna and Steam Rooms (of which there are two of each) - with their heady, rejuvenating aroma - before braving the ice fountain.

Breedon Priory’s Spa Garden is accessed through double doors from the large light-filled relaxation area, and will take your breath away. Sink into one of two sunken infinity pools or crash on one of many cushioned loungers and soak in the serene views across the immaculately landscape gardens and beyond. Spa hosts are present to refresh towels and take drink orders to be delivered to your lounger (tea, please).

The large, grey-tiled alfresco thermal area has two infinity pools: the first for relaxing - with space for 16 people to sit comfortably around the outside - and a vitality pool with massage jets and swan neck fountains.

After a dip, we walked down a few steps - passed the covered snug with firepit and cosy blankets for cooler days - to the spa garden with its lake at the far end, and circular space with more loungers and firepit to the left. Ducks wandering around the lawn simply added to the charm.

On the first floor, you’ll find the mani/pedi room, six treatment rooms - named after resident trees – and a dedicated post-treatment relaxation room with more garden views. The low-lit Slumber Room has 10 curved beds divided by flowy screens.

Tell us about the treatments

We tried the Timexpert Radiance C+ Illuminating Facial (60 minutes, £110).

My therapist, Connie, met me in the treatment waiting lounge and led me down the corridor to Willow, a warm, dimly-lit treatment room with comfy tub chair in the corner.

Connie explained the steps of the brightening, hydrating and anti-ageing treatment before leaving the room so I could disrobe and settle down onto the heated treatment bed, lying face up.

After being asked to take three deep breaths, Connie began the treatment by pressing two warm pindas (balls of cooked rice mixed with soothing herbs) simultaneously into my tired muscles, starting at my neck and moving down to my right arm before covering the rest of my body in an anti-clockwise motion. Body and mind relaxed, Connie applied a hot towel to my chest, neck and face; this felt beautifully nurturing.

For the facial element of the treatment, Connie removed my make-up with a milky cleanser and then used a fine grain exfoliator to soften my skin. The facial massage that came next was aided by a Germaine de Capuccini serum and a massage ball which Connie combined to energise and stimulate; I instantly felt the tension in my jawline release.

Next up: a cooling sheet Glow Force Mask; while this worked its magic, Connie performed a blissful scalp massage with an oil drizzled down my now parted hair.

The treatment concluded with a slick of moisturiser, a blob of eye cream and an aromatic spray which Connie spritzed down my arms.

Connie then led me into a tranquil relaxation area, handed me a glass of water and a little pot of ice-cold grapes to rejuvenate (a nice touch) and left me to snuggle under a cosy blanket and admire the views through the large windows.

My spa partner - who had tried the Proverb 360 Stretch, Align & Deep Massage (60 minutes, £95) - and was impressed by how much his therapist, Natalie, could stretch his limbs into submission, making it the best massage he has ever had.

You’ll find Temple Spa, Tribe517, Proverb Skin and Germaine de Capuccini treatments at Breedon Priory. There's a keen focus on holistic, naturally-inspired experiences for mind and body wellness. The Spa also offers manis and pedis by Pinks Boutique.

Food Facts

During a spa day, you can dine in your robe in The Terrace Restaurant which, as the name suggests, looks out onto the decking and over the beautiful garden through floor-to-ceiling glass. This light and airy space has a sky-high ceiling adorned with a trio of twinkly silver spherical hanging lights, marble-effect tables and a mix of upholstered or leather chairs in blue hues. Staff expertly mix cocktails behind a white wave textured bar with beige stools and three striking black pendant lights above.

Our delicious three-course lunch began with homemade brioche served with the most spectacular dip made from more ingredients than I can remember, but including Roquefort, courgette, lemon and chilli.

For starters, we opted for oak-smoked Trout with a watermelon, Feta and cucumber salad, followed by pan-roasted Cod with saffron potatoes, roasted tomatoes, crispy pancetta and dill oil. Our spa partner selected the twice-baked Gruyere souffle to start followed by the slow-roasted shoulder of Derbyshire lamb with Dauphinoise potatoes, pea puree, carrots and a red wine sauce.

For dessert – and do leave room if you can - we tried the oh-so-delicate lemon and blueberry sponge with vanilla custard. Our chocoholic spa partner couldn’t resist the rich chocolate tart with Madagascan vanilla ice-cream. As meals go, this was top notch.

We loved / we didn't love

We loved

The Spa Garden: sink into the infinity-edged relaxation pool and gaze across purple pervoskia, vivid blue agapanthus and ornamental hydrangeas. Bliss.

The spa hosts are next level - Antonio was constantly on hand to make our spa day as serene and stress-free as possible.

The design has been very well considered: your shoulders will drop as soon as you step through the door.

We didn’t love

Leaving... however, the word is that luxury lodges are on the way, meaning spa-goers will be able to stay the night. Count us in.

Who do you think would like it?

Couples: will love the Hideaway for VIP private spa-ing for two - think outdoor hot tub, firepit, mini bar, private lounge and your own double treatment room.

Solo spa-goers: with a max of 40 guests you’ll find a beautiful private space to curl up with a good book.

Small groups of friends: after a steam, bubble and spot of lunch together, sip a refreshing English Garden Cocktail with a view to match.

What bubble rating did you give this spa?

We awarded The Spa at Breedon Priory the highest Good Spa Guide Bubble Rating of 5 Bubble Luxury for its exquisite design, good facilities, landscaped gardens, highly skilled therapists and top-class service. It’s a Spa Spy favourite.

Serene Spy visited in October 2024 and awarded it 5 Bubble Luxury.