Need a little break from London? Here’s the best places for ultimate relaxation near the capital.
So your summer vacations are over and you only have a few days of holiday left for this year… it’s a depressing state of affairs. What better time to book a cheeky spa escape? It’s time to discover the best spa hotels near London.
In the spirit of the staycation, we’ve hunted out the best places to get pampered on home soil. With swimming pools, top class restaurants, manicured gardens and acres of green, a break in one of these stunning hotels will leave you as rejuvenated as a week in the Med.
The Best Spa Hotels in London
The Grove
The restored former home of the Earls of Clarendon, The Grove is an 18th-century mansion, offering five star luxury within 300 acres of Hertfordshire countryside.
It’s also just 18 miles from London and an 8-minute taxi ride from Watford Junction station.
Anyone for a round of golf? Tiger Woods has played (and won) on The Grove’s renowned golf course, which also hosted the British Masters in 2016.
Not just for golf lovers, check out the award-winning Sequoia Spa and excellent cuisine at all three of their restaurants.
We love the interior of The Glasshouse (recently updated in 2020) which offers views of the garden as kinetic sculptures dangle from the triple height glass conservatory.
Children are welcome here. There’s an onsite creche and a babysitting service available. What’s not to love?
Alexander House
Alexander House is another five star gem in the West Sussex countryside, a Jacobean Manor situated in 120 acres of gardens.
It’s no surprise that Alexander House is frequently named one of the best spa hotels near London. The award-winning Utopia Spa boasts a subterranean swimming pool complete with Grecian columns. Outside, you can experience the barrel sauna, outdoor whirlpool and spa garden.
Food here is highly recommended. From vegan dishes to Sunday roasts, there’s plenty on offer at the four dining spaces, not forgetting the 1806 Champagne bar of course
Reflections restaurant holds 2 AA-Rosettes and wraps around a pretty courtyard which comes into its own in the summer months.
Don’t miss nearby Wakehurst’s Royal Botanic Gardens, just 10 mins away by car.
The Gainsborough Bath Spa
Bath is the quintessential place to ‘take the waters’ – in fact, there’s pretty much nowhere more famous for spas than the UNESCO world heritage site of Bath Spa. It was, after all, quite literally named after its Roman-built baths.
The Gainsborough was originally built in the 1800s. It’s housed in two Grade II Listed buildings which are centred around the Spa Village.
There are three famous hot springs in the centre of Bath. The Hetling spring supplies the mineral-rich water to the Gainsborough, although the actual source of the waters remains a mystery.
Guests are encouraged to try the spa’s three natural thermal baths via the bathing circuit.
Book the Bath Spa Room however and you’ll have in-bathroom access to the magical waters. Best not leave the tap on.
South Lodge
For wellness fanatics, the spa at South Lodge in Horsham is quite something.
Set against the backdrop of the South Downs, this state-of-the-art wave-like building clad in sustainable green oak couldn’t be more different in architectural style to the Jacobean hotel adjacent.
There’s not just one, but three swimming pools to choose from. An indoor infinity pool with stunning views, a heated wild swimming pool and a hydrotherapy pool. There are also designated ‘splash times’ for children under 15.
Food-wise, The Pass restaurant features guest chef residences, The Botanica has Mediterranean influences with a good selection of plant-based dishes while they describe the more traditional and award-winning Camelia as seasonal, country house dining.
Other attractions include Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens where you can delight in wine tasting, a dolls house museum and a wallaby enclosure – but not necessarily in that order.
Pennyhill Park Hotel
For the luxury spa connoisseur, the 45,000 square foot spa at Pennyhill Park in Bagshot, is one that’s not to be missed. This spa has not one, not two… but eight swimming pools.
The ivy-clad 18th-century manor is surrounded by acres of woodland. Inside, the interiors have a wow-factor to match, particularly the grand sweeping staircase.
Pennyhill is not only renowned for its spa however. Latymer restaurant has a Michelin star and 4 AA Rosettes. Surrounded by 123 acres of countryside, no wonder it’s a favourite of the England Rugby squad.
You’re in for a decadent weekend.
Four Seasons Hotel
For a seriously high end stay, the Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire beckons.
From the wallpaper to the paintings and sculptures, lavish interiors of this Georgian manor are to be enjoyed at every turn. The feel is fresh, not at all stuffy and in keeping with the building’s history.
Afternoon tea can be enjoyed next to floor to ceiling windows that showcase stunning views of the rolling Hampshire countryside.
The hotel is child friendly with its adventure park and family adventure pool. There’s also 500 acres of countryside to explore.
It’s also not far from the Jane Austen’s House Museum.
The Grand Hotel
Once upon a time, Eastbourne was the town of choice for Victorian high society to come and take in the sea air.
It’s the gleaming white Grand Hotel in particular that puts Eastbourne on the map, with past guests that include Winston Churchill and Charlie Chaplin.
These days, a stay at the 5-star hotel offers up a spa with both an indoor and outdoor pool, a 2-AA Rosette restaurant called the Mirabelle and of course bedrooms with unbeatable sea views.
Beaverbrook
The grounds and views of the Surrey Hills at Beaverbrook in Leatherhead, will quite frankly, blow your socks off.
Steeped in history, the 18 bedrooms are named after famous folk who have some connection to Beaverbrook’s past, including close friend of Lord Beaverbrook, Sir Winston Churchill no less.
The interiors have all the grandeur you would expect from a stately home with contemporary furnishings sensitively woven in. This is thanks to designer Susie Atkinson who has worked on Soho House hotels around the globe.
The decor of the dreamy Coach House Spa is not your average beige affair, but features pops of colour and a stunning stained glass ceiling by contemporary artist Brian Clarke.
You’ll be treating yourself to sashimi at the exceptional Japanese Grill and sipping cocktails at the Parrot Bar with its distinctly 1920s vibe. It definitely floats our boat.
Sopwell House
Another delightful spa hotel near London is the Georgian manor Sopwell House in St Aubyns.
The rooms are modern and elegantly decorated in patterns and colours that nod to a classic English country house style.
Sopwell has both a 2 AA-Rosette restaurant and a brasserie offering British-Mediterranean fare.
The Cottonmill spa offers heavenly treatments and an indoor swimming pool (only available for children to use between 8am-10am). There is also a beautiful garden spa at The Club at Cottonmill which is for private members and those staying in the more exclusive Mews Suites.
Local attractions include the Willows Activity Farm and Roman Verulamium Museum
Coworth Park
Built in 1776, Coworth Park, Berkshire is a 240-acre estate next to Great Windsor Park that guarantees tranquillity and reconnection with nature.
The hotel will most certainly appeal to horse lovers with its equestrian centre and polo fields. And what better way to explore the grounds than on horseback?
Coworth also had the seal of royal approval, as Prince Harry chose to spend the night here, before tying the knot with Meghan. Need we say more?
The spa is a vast semicircular building, topped by a living roof where they grow seasonal produce. The swimming pool is lined with sparkling purple amethyst crystals and plays music underwater.
Cliveden House
17th-century Cliveden House in Taplow is a very glamorous affair indeed.
Famed for being the hotel of choice for Meghan Merkle the night before her wedding day, it has also been popular with the likes of George Bernard Shaw and Rudyard Kiping.
The National Trust owned estate has a spa, gym, tennis courts, squash courts, boathouse and for those of us who really want to make an entrance – a helipad.
As well as having some serious curb appeal, the interior epitomises five star luxury. With high wooden panelled ceilings, 18th-century tapestries, suits of armour and imposing carved fireplace, the grandeur of the hotel’s Great Hall will take your breath away.
In summer, you should opt for a tailor made boat picnic and sail down the Thames in style on one of the hotel’s vintage boats.
Hythe Imperial Hotel
For golf, kitesurfing and afternoon teas, you may wish to opt for the family-friendly Hythe Imperial Hotel in Kent.
As well as the sprawling golf course, swimming pool and spa, highlights of this hotel include a Moët and Chandon champagne bar and the bright purple Holy Pundit in-house Indian Restaurant.
Being by the sea, this Victorian spa hotel stands apart from some of the others in this list and also sits at the more affordable end of the spectrum.
There’s also plenty to do and see in the local area. Not to be missed is the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway – a miniature railway that will take you all the way to the National Nature Reserve of Dungeness.
Ockenden Manor
In the heart of the West Sussex countryside is a hotel housed in an Elizabethan building called Ockenden Manor.
As far as spa hotels close to London go, its location is convenient. The village of Cuckfield is close to the well-connected Haywards Heath station.
The hotel’s main building dates back to 1520 and the rooms have a lovely cosy country feel.
The spa is an impressive modern glazed structure where you can soak up the country views while being able to swim between the indoor and outdoor pools.
Local attractions include Borde Hill, Wakehurst Place, Nymans Gardens and Sheffield Park.
Bailiffscourt Hotel
Bailiffscourt Hotel gives you a great excuse to visit a beautiful part of the West Sussex Coast.
Built from reclaimed ancient materials, the windows, beams and walls of the hotel look distinctly mediaeval. The building was actually built in the 1920s by Lord Moyne, a member of the Guiness family.
The cosy bedrooms are brimming with character. Think antique four poster beds, heavy fabrics, roll top baths and deep red carpets.
The spa is a defining feature of this hotel, with its glazed barn-like pool house and luxurious outdoor infinity pool, all lending to a feel of calm and serenity.
Nearby hotspots include Arundel Castle and Thomas Hetherwick’s East Beach Cafe.
Down Hall Country Hotel
Down Hall Country Hotel in Essex is thought to have existed during the reign of Edward the Confessor in the 11th-century, possibly even earlier.
Fast forward a few centuries and this picturesque part of the world has hosted hundreds of weddings. A film set for the Bake Off can also be added to its list of historical moments.
The ornate Italianate interior and exterior architecture is stunning and each of their 98 rooms is uniquely decorated.
Other highlights of Down Hall are the acres of woodland which are perfect for walks, tennis courts, croquet, strutting peacocks and the Eden Spa.
The playground will appeal to the kids as will the Sharky and George Kids Club which is available 7 days a week across half term.
Eastwell Manor
Champneys Eastwell Manor might explain why Kent is known as the Garden of England.
This is the 18th-century neo-Elizabethan former home of Queen Victoria’s son Prince Alfred.
Situated in the Kent Downs, it was largely burnt down in the 1920s, but some original features remain after it was rebuilt.
As well as the beautiful gardens (which make it popular for weddings) there are plenty of activities on offer, including golf, badminton, tennis, falconry, nature trails and croquet.
Champneys Spa has a 20m indoor swimming pool, complete with poolside cabanas. You can also indulge in a great menu of spa treatments from Clarins and Elemis.
All just 15 mins from Ashford International station.
Heckfield Place
Heckfield Place in Hook will appeal to those with an eye for design.
The interior is designed by Ben Thompson who was commissioned to highlight the Georgian splendour of the building whilst making the spaces feel modern and comfortable.
It’s fair to say, the interiors are very tasteful indeed.
In some spaces he brings in elements of modern rustic farmhouse whilst in others you’ll find more classic and refined furnishings, all in a contemporary colour palette that suits the setting.
Treatments from Wildsmith Skin are available at The Little Bothy Spa. Heckfield also boasts a basement cinema with leather seating (for talks as well as film screenings) and lakes you can swim in.
There are also three restaurants offering modern seasonal cuisine with produce sourced from the biodynamic farm that sits on the 400-acre estate. A definite favourite here.
Heckfield Place
Heckfield Place in Hook will appeal to those with an eye for design.
The interior is designed by Ben Thompson who was commissioned to highlight the Georgian splendour of the building whilst making the spaces feel modern and comfortable.
It’s fair to say, the interiors are very tasteful indeed.
In some spaces he brings in elements of modern rustic farmhouse whilst in others you’ll find more classic and refined furnishings, all in a contemporary colour palette that suits the setting.
Treatments from Wildsmith Skin are available at The Little Bothy Spa. Heckfield also boasts a basement cinema with leather seating (for talks as well as film screenings) and lakes you can swim in.
There are also three restaurants offering modern seasonal cuisine with produce sourced from the biodynamic farm that sits on the 400-acre estate. A definite favourite here.
The Yarrow Hotel
The Yarrow was built in 1894 originally as a children’s convalescent home. It now offers a lovely coastal escape in the very cute seaside town of Broadstairs.
Unlike others mentioned here, the spa at the hotel does not have a swimming pool, but it does offer a hair and beauty salon with sauna, steam room and jacuzzi, so probably one for a lower key spa break near London.
This hotel is renowned for its fine dining so look out for the 7-course tasting menu to sample some local and seasonal cuisine.
Famous attractions include Bleak House, the holiday home of Charles Dickens. Don’t forget your bucket and spade because the beaches here actually have sand.
The Vineyard
For a truly indulgent weekend, The Vineyard will certainly appeal to foodies and particularly wine lovers (the clue is in the name).
This 5 star hotel boasts a 3 AA rosette restaurant and an impressive wine collection. Californian wines are a speciality, as the hotel’s owner Sir Peter Michael has his own winery there.
The Spa has an indoor swimming pool. Just make sure you do the swimming before the wine tasting.
Hartwell House
Jane Austen fans will love the period drama romance of this stunning country estate in rural Buckinghamshire.
Owned by the National Trust, the grounds of Hartwell House in Aylesbury are truly breathtaking.
Gardens were designed at the start of the 18th-century and some of the garden statuary, canals, columns and temples still remain.
Inside, rooms are adorned with Jacobean and Georgian panelling, paintings and furniture.
Take a dip in the heated indoor swimming pool, lined with arches and neoclassical sculptures.
Look out for Hartwell’s signature dinner – the Bill of Fare, which makes the most of seasonal produce from Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire suppliers.
The Retreat Elcot Park
West Berkshire’s home to many a fine country house. One of those you can visit for a relaxing weekend away from London. It’s The Retreat Elcot Park – a splendid 18th-century country house turned spa hotel.
They’ve got multiple pools – including options for hydrotherapy – wellness centres and sensory deprivation tanks for you to relax in. Once you’ve reached your zen’s zenith, 16 acres of beautiful land on the property are yours to stretch your legs on.
If you’re short on time they also offer day trips out of the city where you can have a late breakfast followed by a day at the spa and be back in London ready for whatever it is you’ve got planned the next day.
Foxhills
Down in Surrey you’ll find a fantastic option for a spa that won’t take you all day to get to: Foxhills. The setting is a gorgeous country house with modern extensions boasting facilities as high-grade as Olympic-standard pools and leisure facilities.
And when they say leisure they mean it. You’ll have access to golf courses that happen to be two of the most highly-rated in the UK: Bernard Hunt and Longcross. There’s gyms and yoga studios as well as the award-winning health spa and as if that wasn’t enough they put on over 200 activities a week for their guests.
With so much to do, Foxhills makes a great place to go as a family (they are happy for you to bring children). You’ll have plenty to keep everyone entertained while you go off and get down to the really important stuff: relaxing.
Spa Hotels Near London: Practical Tips and Map
- Not all spa hotels are for couples only, some very much cater to families with impressive play areas and kids clubs. You may find however that the spa facilities are limited to over 18s only, or that children can have access to use the pool during certain times. Again, check before you book.
- Just looking for a decadent day out? Spa breaks don’t have to include the overnight stay. There are plenty of offers available for spa days near London if you just fancy a treatment, some lounging by the pool and a glass of champers before heading home.
- Some of these places can get expensive. Booking as far in advance as you can is one way to make a saving on your room.
