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 – with its boutique shops and Georgian architecture.

What's on offer?

Park across the road from this two-storey, purpose-built spa, where steps lead down to reception. Flooded with natural light due to tall ceilings and all-the-glass, at the centre, an Italian panoramic fireplace sets the scene. Wooden dressers display a range of products by Temple Spa, Tribe517 and Proverb Skin.

We were warmly greeted by Lisa at reception before being introduced to our Spa Host, John, who offered us a fresh juice shot and a cloth which expanded on contact with water to create a cleansing ritual.

After a personal tour of the spa, John led us to the spacious changing room with its pale wood floor, pale grey metro wall tiles and lemon-hued walls. Open one of the sage green lockers with your wristband; you’ll find stone-coloured robes and flip-flops (to take them home - or pop them in a basket to be recycled) inside. Help yourself to fresh, neatly-folded towels.

There are large leather benches, plus private cubicles, in which to change, 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 leads from here to the Wellbeing Suite; awaken the senses in the experience shower with its tropical rain, cool rain and cold mist, 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 and soak in the serene views across the immaculately landscape gardens and beyond.

The large, grey-tiled 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 loungers and firepit to the left. Ducks wandering around the lawn 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 Temple Spa Breedon Priory Signature Soul Retreat (60 minutes, £85).

My therapist, Niamh, met me in the treatment waiting lounge and led me to a warm, dimly-lit treatment room with comfy tub chair and copper bowl in the corner.

Niamh immediately got to work washing, scrubbing and massaging my lower legs and feet before leaving the room so that I could disrobe and get comfortable on the toasty treatment bed, lying face down.

The back massage began with three deep inhalations of eucalyptus, tea tree and menthol oil. Having opted for a deep tissue massage, Niamh smoothed hot Temple Spa Work It Out oil onto my back so that she could work out the string of knots in my shoulders; using forearms and elbows, she intuitively kneaded them into submission.

Niamh then asked me to turn over for the facial which began with an exfoliating cleanse followed by a Temple Spa Most Revealing oxygen peel which bubbled on the surface of my skin, ridding the pores of grime and preparing it for a mask. While this worked its magic, Niamh performed a heavenly scalp massage. The treatment ended with moisturiser, lip balm and a spritz of Temple Spa Quietude Mediterranean spray.

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

I felt utterly relaxed; my shoulders releasing for what felt like the first time in a long time. The Temple Spa products sunk in swiftly, leaving my skin silky smooth.

My Spa Partner tried the Tribe517 Signature Peaceful Sanctuary (60 minutes, £85) and commented that it was the best massage he’d ever had; he’s found a new love for facials, too.

You’ll find Temple Spa, Tribe517 and Proverb Skin treatments at Breedon Priory. There's a keen focus on holistic, naturally-inspired treatments for mind and body wellness. The Spa also offer manicures and pedicures 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 hues of blue. Morcheeba-style tunes played in the background as staff make cocktails behind a white wave textured bar with beige stools and three striking black pendant lights above.

Our delicious three-course lunch consisted of a Dorset crab, and celeriac and apple remoulade served with homemade brioche to start, and roast Cornish cod with lemon and dill risotto and lobster bisque for mains. If you have room (we shared) don’t miss the warm mini doughnuts with Eton Mess and raspberry sauce.

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 Host service is next level; John was on hand to make our spa day as serene and stress-free as possible. Such a lovely personal experience.

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

We didn’t love

Leaving... Although, word is that luxury lodges are in Breedon’s future plans so spa-goers will be able to stay the night; we’re already packing our bags…

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 book and replenish your soul in peace.

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 new Spa Spy favourite.

Scarlet Spy visited in August 2023 and awarded it 5 Bubble Luxury.