Holiday season has landed. Once you’ve dusted off the suitcase, hunted out the passport and pre-planned your capsule wardrobe, all that’s left to do is to book a pre-holiday spa treatment (or two). From results-driven facials (pass the rose quartz Gua Sha please) to skin-smoothing scrubs and contouring body massages, we'll get you pre-holiday ready (and glowing) before take-off.
The Platinum Hydrafacial is a six-step, non-invasive facial that delivers a red-carpet glow – with no downtime required. Expect lymphatic drainage (to reduce puffiness), deep cleansing, a gentle glycolic chemical peel, painless extractions, a serum infusion (hello, hyaluronic acid) and LED therapy. The result? Sculpted, luminous skin - no filter required – ready for those sun-soaked evenings.
Try it at: The Spa at Lucknam Park
This deeply effective massage smooths cellulite, contours your body and enhances circulation, providing a little boost so you can slip confidently into your summer get up. Using firming techniques and detoxifying stimulation, it targets key areas like legs, waist and glutes, reduces bloat and leaves you looking toned and fully prepped for a day at the beach.
Try it at: The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park
This sensory full-body massage is your one-way ticket to toned muscles and deep invigoration. Drawing on traditional Chinese techniques, stainless steel Gua Sha tools and thermal mud work in tandem to stimulate circulation, relieve fatigue and reset your body’s rhythm. Ideal for improving posture, boosting immunity, and restoring energy before your trip.
Try it at: Aqua Sana Forest Spas: Elveden Forest, Sherwood Forest, Woburn Forest, Longleat Forest, Whinfell Forest, Longford Forest
This eastern-inspired ritual features a purifying black soap cleanse and a full-body Kessa mitt exfoliation, followed by a Vichy shower (a heavenly multi-stream water massage). Next, a drizzle of your choice of oil and warm shea butter is applied for a flowing massage. A collaboration with La Sultane de Saba, this experience smooths, softens and hydrates the skin, transporting you far from daily stress before you’ve even left the country.
Try it at: The Club at Cottonmill
This uplifting ritual features a full-body scrub infused with zesty mandarin and apricot - close your eyes and you could already be in sunnier climes - followed by an Elemis taster facial to hydrate and brighten the complexion. Available throughout the summer, this energising treat for skin and senses will leave you fresh, polished and photo ready.
Try it at: Treetop Spa at The Old Inn
This results-driven facial uses deep-tissue massage, both externally and inside the mouth, to sculpt, lift and define. Tension - that you probably didn’t even know existed - is released from the jaw and cheeks; puffiness is banished and circulation boosted for a naturally radiant glow. It’s the A-lister’s secret to looking effortlessly refreshed—perfect for poolside selfies (Aperol spritz, optional).
Try it at: Ragdale Hall Spa
Europe’s first augmented massage experience, Galgorm’s Symphony of Touch transforms therapeutic movements into melodic rhythms using sensor technology. Which means, as your therapist works, the bed converts their touch into sound, creating a deeply personalised audio-physical journey. It’s a multi-sensory marvel that calms the mind and unlocks a deep state of tranquillity – a wonderful way to engage relax-mode.
Try it at: Galgorm
Scarlet Spy
17th June 2025
Spy Likes:
Nature-inspired spas, cold water plunges, sound baths, deep tissue massage, delicious food.
Spy Dislikes:
Thin walls in treatment rooms, lounger hoggers, soggy robes, bright lights.
