Spa retreats you’ll love after the kids are back at school

Whether you're child-free and want to enjoy tranquil time out, or you're looking for a little me-time when the kids go back to school, September is the perfect time for those seeking peaceful getaways with mid-week retreats.

From adult-only spa hotels to luxury destinations that offer great rates and added calm outside the school holidays, these are the places that shouldn't be missed. Enjoy opulent dining experiences, exceptional pools, soaking up the last of the sunshine in outdoor spaces, and treatments that make you feel like you've had a week on holiday.

After weeks of keeping the kids entertained, many parents find themselves craving time to unwind and recharge in serene spaces free from noise and distractions. These sanctuaries are the ultimate reward after a whirlwind summer, whether you’re looking for deep relaxation, a luxury pampering session, or simply a day to exhale in peace.

A romantic retreat: Ockenden Manor, West Sussex

Surrounded by nine acres of countryside, Ockenden Manor is a heritage property complete with wood panelling, a log fire, and textured fabrics, looking out across rolling hills and the Tudor Village of Cuckfield. Perfect for romantic breaks, it has an award-winning restaurant, serves a superb afternoon tea, and then there's the spa.

Purpose-built within the walled garden, the contemporary space uses spring water from its own source, and natural light wherever possible. Spend time swimming between indoor and outdoor heated pools, lounging in the hot tub, and enjoying therapies that soothe mind, body, and soul.

Celebrations and self-care: Pennyhill Park, Surrey

Pennyhill Park is well known for being one of the most luxurious spas and hotels in the UK. The spa alone spans 45,000 sq. ft, complete with indoor and outdoor experiences that you could happily spend a whole week in. Whether you visit for a day or overnight it's a total treat, perfect for sharing with friends, family, or on a romantic break.

The five-star hotel has won numerous awards, and is complete with two restaurants, one of which has a Michelin Star. Meanwhile, the spa sits in its own building, celebrated for its indoor to outdoor pools, ballroom pool has underwater music, hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms, mud room, 21 treatment rooms, and garden spaces with private cabanas.

Quality time in the countryside: Chewton Glen, New Forest

An exquisite country house hotel, Chewton Glen is a proud member of the Relais & Châteaux collection of hotels, known for their high standard of service. Guests stay in deliciously beautiful rooms and suites, many with their own terrace, balcony or private garden - there are even luxury treehouses to stay in. Their Dining Room restaurant is a Three-Star Sustainability Champion and has three AA Rosettes, and there's a less formal offering in The Kitchen.

There are lots of activities to enjoy in the grounds, from Pickleball to tennis, and beach walks. Meanwhile, the spa is a little world of its own, centred around a magnificent pool hall with, amongst other things, a 17-metre lap pool, a hydrotherapy pool with 13 jet stations. It's an enchanting place to enjoy time with friends, a partner, or a parent whether you have a few hours or a few days away.

Lakeside luxury: Moddershall Oaks, Staffordshire

Set in 72 acres of Staffordshire countryside, Moddershall Oaks is a luxurious and contemporary country retreat that offers wellbeing and decadence in equal measure. Modern but understated, it's warm and welcoming, with just 10 rooms, creating a boutique vibe. The romantic master suite with its four-poster bed and freestanding bath is a real favourite. When it comes to dining, you had better stay overnight so you don't miss out - the Oakhouse Restaurant is perfect for decadent dinners, while daytime dining in the Wellness Centre's own plant-based cafe offers total feel-good-factor.

The wellbeing experience is a tale of two halves at Moddershall Oaks, with fitness in the Wellness Centre, and relaxation in the spa. The spa is a real jewel, set around an outdoor vitality pool, and complete with a sauna and outdoor fireplace, while inside you will find a steam room, lagoon pool, a hydro pool, an experience shower and heated loungers. Spend time in the mud chamber for shared pampering, and enjoy therapies from Tribe517 and Neom.

Beachside beauty: The Nici, Bournemouth

Perched on Bournemouth’s West Cliff with views of the beach and easy access into the centre of town, The Nici is fun, stylish and full of joie de vivre. A modern retreat with vintage Miami vibes, it's a great place to extend the summer feeling, with its Sea View Suites and South Beach Restaurant & Bar - known for its cocktails as well as a superb flat white in the morning.

THE NICI Spa is a state-of-the-art sanctuary, popular for its 18-metre heated indoor pool, a hydro pool, sauna and steam room, not to mention a spectacular 30-metre outdoor pool surrounded by loungers. Their OTO CBD and OSKIA treatments take things to new heights. This is a family hotel and there are children's swim times between 9am -10am and 4pm-5pm. So, for those who want to maximise the quieter periods, the new school term is the perfect opportunity.