10 of the best spas for walking holidays in the UK

Walking is often underestimated, as a fitness activity, as entertainment, as a form of inspiration. However, this humble form of exercise is not only powerfully good for us, but also one of the easiest ways to support mental and physical wellbeing, and in the UK we have access to some of the most spectacular walking territory in the world.

From the South West Coast Path to the Pennine Way, Hadrian’s Wall Path to the Norfolk Coast Path, the Thames Path to the South Downs, the UK has a unique network of over 140,000 miles of public footpaths and rights of way to explore, taking you from coast to country, exploring nature, history and more.

Where to stay: The Harbour Beach Club, Salcombe

The Beach Club Hotel and Spa is a luxury hotel that offers exceptional modern design and an enviable location right next to the beach. Quite literally a stone's throw from the sand, the hotel is perfect for romantic spa breaks, family holidays or celebrations with friends. It is near the popular sailing town of Salcombe, and includes a stylish spa complete with marine-inspired spa therapies.

Where to walk: South West Coast Path

Where to stay: South Lodge, West Sussex

This exquisite hotel has so much to offer in the way of beauty, service and activities, however The Spa at South Lodge is a destination in its own right. Designed with sustainability in mind, the spa lets the outdoors in as much as possible, so you can expect spectacular South Downs views from many vantage points including the indoor pool and relaxation space. Outside, the luxury continues, with an infinity edge pool, natural wild pool and a hydrotherapy pool. Inside, the spa has a superb thermal suite and 14 nature-themed treatment rooms to enjoy massages, facials and body rituals.

Where to walk: South Downs Way

Where to stay: Manor House Hotel, County Durham

Full of historic charm, you’ll feel like a king or queen at this friendly, heritage hotel. Despite its period features, it provides all the modern amenities to make it an ideal venue for short breaks or memorable stays to mark a special occasion. The spa at the Manor House Hotel has a variety of treatments including tailored spa breaks for those staying over. The Manorcure Nail Bar is a luxurious and fun way to relax before a pre-dinner drink in the hotel’s Lounge restaurant.

Where to walk: Pennine Way

Where to stay: Appleby Manor Hotel & Garden Spa

With the Lake District as its backdrop, this hotel prides itself on offering a warm and relaxing atmosphere that follows through to its Garden Spa. Here, you’ll be treated to a menu of over 80 decadent spa therapies designed to ease you into a feeling of deep relaxation. Your experience includes the aqua thermal facilities, which involve different heat experiences and a hydrotherapy pool, as well as two outdoor hot tubs and a gorgeous spa garden area.

Where to walk: Hadrian’s Wall Path

Where to stay: One Spa at the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh

Located in the UNESCO World Heritage city centre of Edinburgh, Sheraton Grand Hotel and Spa is a luxurious hotel that’s perfect for romantic breaks, special occasions or simply just because. An urban resort, it offers everything you could want from a city spa break, complete with modern luxury surroundings and a full hydrotherapy suite and a rooftop hydro pool, where you can enjoy an indoor-outdoor warm water whole body experience.

Where to walk: Arthur’s Seat

Where to stay: Imagine Spa - Best Western Knights Hill

A perfect girls’ treat, Imagine Spa inside the Best Western Knights Hill Hotel has the facilities and the space to ensure your group has a fun and relaxing time. Work up a sweat together in the gym, then cool down in the large swimming pool area, which includes a bubbling spa pool and poolside loungers. There’s a thermal suite to enjoy as part of your experience and a menu of gorgeous therapies plus some lovely finishing touches to add glamour to your day.

Where to walk: Norfolk Coast Path

Where to stay: Donnington Valley, Newbury

With leisure and relaxation at its core, Donnington Valley is an ideal getaway for a weekend or overnight stay where the emphasis is on laidback leisure. An 18-hole golf course set in rolling countryside presides, but for non-golfers, head to the health club to work up a sweat in the gym, take some time out in the pool or totally unwind in the tranquil spa. There are seven treatment rooms including a duo, where facials, massages and scrubs offer the ultimate in time out.

Where to walk: Thames Path

Where to stay: Stratton House Hotel and Spa, Cirencester

A welcoming family hotel in picturesque Cirencester, Stratton House Hotel and Spa is family owned and charmingly decorated. Located close to the town, it’s surrounded by pretty gardens, giving it a feeling of peace and tranquillity. The boutique hotel includes a purpose-built spa in the grounds. With floor-to-ceiling windows it lets in lots of natural light, creating a charming space for a day of rest and relaxation.

Where to walk: Cotswold Way

Where to stay: Hilton Garden Inn Snowdonia

As the name suggests, Adventure Parc Snowdonia is a resort that makes the most of everything Wales has to offer. From outdoor adventures to indoor leisure, their adventures include zip-lines, climbing walls, indoor caving and mountain bike hire. The dramatic focal point of the park is a giant inland surf lagoon, where surfers of all ages and abilities ride man-made waves against a backdrop of mountains and forests. It’s not all about adrenaline, however. The Wave Garden Spa is just as much of a draw card, with views over the surf lagoon and a focus on fresh air and wellbeing.

Where to walk: Wales Coast Path

Where to stay: Crerar Oban Bay Hotel

Oban Bay Hotel and Spa sits in the most picturesque of locations on Scotland’s west coast. With views of the mountains and the water, it's tranquil and romantic, perfect for quiet getaways. One of our favourite features is the outdoor hot tub, which one again takes advantage of those gorgeous views. Spend your days exploring the surrounding landscapes and unwind in the evenings, dining on local seafood.

Where to walk: West Highland Way