The best spa hotels in the UK for a stress-free staycation
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The summer of staycations is upon us, but those who want an extra bit of rest and relaxation are checking themselves into a spa hotel instead.
Yet with so many wonderful spa hotels dotted across the UK, it can be hard to decide which one to choose for your mini-break.
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This is why we’ve collated our favourite spa hotels across the nation, from a sustainable spa on the Cornish coast, to a country pile in Scotland and a Lake District hotel that has brand new spa lodges (complete with private spa rooms).
Read on and discover exactly where to book this summer.
Gilpin Hotel and Lake House, Lake District
Following the introduction of its new and improved spa lodges last year, which includes your own outdoor hot tub and an in-lodge spa room with a sauna, steam room and state-of-the-art massage chair, the Gilpin has firmly cemented itself as the best spa hotel in the Lake District.
Book here.
The Scarlet, Cornwall
One of the most eco-friendly spas in the UK, The Scarlet is perched neatly on the Cornish coast and its spa includes a chemical-free outdoor pool cleaned by reeds, house-made natural products using sea salt and Cornish clay and a clifftop hot tub you can soak in. Bliss.
Book here.
Cliveden House Hotel, Berkshire
If it’s good enough for Meghan Markle, it’s good enough for us. Cliveden House is where the Duchess of Sussex spent the evening before she married Prince Harry - and the spa is world class. Here, you can tailor make your spa days to include 60 to 120-minute treatments and use of all the facilities - including its indoor and outdoor pools.
Book here.
Lime Wood Hotel, Hampshire
Lime Wood and its Herb House Spa is perfect for any Londoner looking for a weekender. With its New Forest surroundings, the spa sits across three levels and there’s a mud house, an outdoor pool, a sauna and a hydro pool.
Book here.
Gleneagles, Perthshire
A sprawling country pile (it sits on an incredible 850 acres), Gleneagles is Scotland’s premier spa destination. While it’s currently in the middle of a refurb, when open, the spa has 20 treatment rooms, a steam room, sauna cabin, dark vitality pool and a cafe - not to mention a slew of Ayurvedic and European-style body treatments to choose from.
Book here.
Dormy House, Cotswolds
Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, Dormy House has a multi-floor spa with a Cotswold lavender sauna, rhassoul mud room, nail parlour, infinity pool and outdoor hot tub. The hotel itself is Scandi chic meets rustic farmhouse, ideal for a lovely weekend escape.
Book here.
Corinthia Hotel, London
If you judge your spas on sheer size alone, Corinthia’s mammoth four-floor spa in London’s centre will jump to the top of the pack. Here, sleep pods replace day beds, the steam room is clad in black marble and there’s a vitality pool and an amphitheatre sauna too.
Book here.
Beaverbrook, Surrey
Overlooking the Surrey Hills, The Coach House Spa at Beaverbrook is a vibrant, nurturing spa designed to soothe the senses. It has a number of spa packages available - opt for the “gift of love” for a 90-minute therapeutic massage that includes chakra stone and 'heart opening' guided meditation.
Book here.
The Grove, Hertfordshire
Set on 300 acres in the Hertfordshire countryside, the award-winning Sequoia spa at The Grove is known for its luxe spa treatments. Whether you’re after a prebiotic facial, a hot stone massage or a non-injectable face lift, The Grove has you covered.
Book here.
Sopwell House, Saint Albans
Sopwell House Hotel is a popular destination whether you are heading for a spa break, a day full of pampering, or a full weekend to zen. From yoga classes to light therapy sessions, body wrap and body scrub treatments, there is something to suit everyone's needs.
Book here.
Champneys, Tring
Champneys is one of the most well recognised spa chains. Whether you book in for a full body massage, a facial with top-rated Elemis products, or enjoy a healthy feast after a dip in the jacuzzi. While away hours in the spa facilities, swimming pool, or their two restaurants, or you can even amble around the acres of grounds backing onto the English stately home.
Book here.
Kimpton Charlotte Square, Edinburgh
Kimpton is a top-rated spa hotel destination, with an average rating of 9.6 out of 10 stars. It is well located, close to Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, as well as quaint cobbled streets, but do you really need to venture outside when there is so much to busy yourself with inside? From a luxurious spa offering an array of massage packages, facial treatments, manicures and other beauty treats, as well as gym and fitness facilities. Plus you can enjoy dinner in the botanical-inspired aviary.
Book here.
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