Spotlight on Lucknam Park

In the heart of picturesque Wiltshire, nestled within 500 acres of grounds and gardens, sits one of the UK's most prized spa hotels. Lucknam Park is a haven for modern wellbeing and luxury hospitality. Here's what you need to know.

The luxury hotel

Lucknam Park is an impressive country house, which has been formed across the ages. Many of the key features we see today date back to the 1600s when the property was owned by the Wallis family, although before that it was a farmhouse dating as far back as 1199. Today, the vast property has 42 rooms and suites, each individually styled to their exacting five-star standards. There are also a number of cottages within the estate that visitors can stay in.

The manicured gardens

The Lucknam estate spans 500 acres in total, and the gardens are very much a feature. Guests approach the hotel down a mile-long driveway, flanked by 400 lime and beech trees. Days can be spent in no small part exploring the Walled Garden, dating back to the 1830s; the Rose Garden, which was planted in 1996; the 1.5 acre Arboretum; and the old Vinery, which was renovated in 2012 and has over 30 varieties of produce, much of which is served in the hotel restaurant.

The convenient location

Despite being surrounded by so much tranquil outside space in the Wiltshire countryside, Lucknam Park is also within half an hour of Bath and Bristol by car. Those who wish to turn their spa break into a few days away can include sightseeing and city shopping as part of the experience.

Michelin star food

Food at Lucknam Park is a particular treat. The main event is the Michelin starred Restaurant Hywel Jones, which is the place for fine dining including an impressive wine list. The less formal Brasserie is also popular - serving smaller dishes as well as lunch and daytime nibbles. Adjoining the spa, The Brasserie is particularly popular for spa guests, who can tuck into healthy fare and stay in their robes until 5.30pm.

Luxury leisure facilities

Lucknam Park is a complete experience when it comes to leisure, whether you fancy a stroll in the grounds or a jaunt on horseback. They have their own Equestrian Centre, tennis courts, a five a side football pitch and a gym. That's before you even get to the spa.

The 'secret' spa

The spa at Lucknam Park has a reputation all of its own. Sequestered within the hotel’s walled gardens, it's a feast of contemporary wellness facilities. Guests delight in features such as a 20-metre indoor pool, an indoor/outdoor hydrotherapy pool with arboretum views, a relaxation area, five thermal cabins and dry floatation. Treatments are equally delightful, from a combination of brands including 111Skin and Natural Spa Factory, used for a charming combination of holistic pampering and results-driven therapies. There's also a manicure/pedicure room and a relaxation room to rest in.