Top 10 spas to escape half term

For some, half term is about relaxing with the family. For others, it’s about adult only me time, and these are the spa hotels to escape to…

Gaia Spa at Boringdon Hall, Plymouth

It’s a tale of two halves at Gaia Spa, where the hotel is a rich tapestry of Elizabethan architecture and history that’s perfect for a romantic getaway, and the spa is a contemporary haven enjoyed by both couples and groups of friends. Overlooking the dramatic vistas of Dartmoor, it’s a luxurious getaway complete with a goodie bag of macaroon treats when you leave.

Careys Manor Hotel, Hampshire

For total tranquility, head to the New Forest, where Careys Manor is an award winning, luxury escape in a magnificent manor house. King sized beds, zen gardens and a spa decorated in hand woven Thai silks are the order of the day, while 19 treatment rooms mean there’s plenty of space to be spoiled rotten.

The Spa At The Midland, Manchester

For those seeking a city escape with a real spa twist, The Spa At The Midland has it all. Ultra stylish, contemporary but with a decadent 100-year history, awarded one of the first Michelin stars for The French restaurant, and with an adult-only spa of grand proportions. It operates under the mantra ‘Redefining Relaxation in Manchester’, with its four thermal areas, everything here is an experience… and when you’ve done all of that, the city awaits on your doorstep!

Rudding Park, North Yorkshire

Having been in the top three Best Hotels in UK for 10 years, Rudding Park revealed a brand new spa in 2017 complete with an adult only spa, Mind and Sense Zone and Rooftop Garden. The hydrotherapy infinity pool, a panoramic sauna, a herbal steam bath and 11 treatment rooms, including a VIP Room with a feature copper bath, are all jewels in its crown. However it’s also blessed with an innovative team who are always seeking to bring guests innovative experiences - including the recent addition of the Art of Aufguss.

Pennyhill Park Hotel and Spa, Surrey

Perhaps one of the best known luxury escapes in the UK, Pennyhill Park is the creme de la creme of spa hotels. Complete with its own 9-hole golf course and two award winning restaurants, this Tudor mansion and its standalone spa are luxurious escapes that provide both romance and decadent pampering. Favourite features include the hydrotherapy suite and the ballroom pool with underwater music.

Lifehouse Spa and Hotel, Essex

A contemporary and peaceful escape that can be either a luxurious pampering treat or a full blown health retreat, Lifehouse is light, bright, and brimming with knowledge. Surrounded by tranquil gardens with a history to tell and produce grown for use in the restaurant, they offer a range of specialist treatments, nutrition advice, and support in everything from weight loss to smoking cessation. Alternatively, they do a fabulous home made cocktail and cake.

Melia Hacienda del Conde 5*, Tenerife

Sunshine has got to be one of the most healing of elements, and surrounded by sea and the Teno Mountains, Melia Hacienda del Conde 5* is an idyllic half term escape. The adult only hotel is a haven of peace, decorated in Colonial style and complete with a luxury spa experience. Spend the day lounging outdoors or having signature treatments using the hotel’s own product line, and in the evening opt for wine tasting or cocktails.

Soneva Kiri, Thailand

Fly from Bangkok to the almost untouched island of Koh Kood and you will find this environmentally friendly spa sanctuary. Villa accommodation is combined with excellent food in a variety of options.  From slow food dining on the cliff tops to lantern lit romantic evenings. The luxury spa retreat offers herbal baths and silk facials, and when you’re not busy relaxing you might choose to snorkel amongst the coral reef at Koh Rang Yai National Marine Park or go kayaking through the rainforest.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Spa, Liverpool

Customer service is the buzzword at Doubletree Liverpool and you’ll find yourself greeted by a wave of friendly faces in the newly restored hotel. Located in the buzzing city of Liverpool, there is all manner of amenities on your doorstep, and Liverpool Cathedral just a stone’s throw away. Meanwhile, set over two stories in a historic 19th century building in Liverpool, eforea spa offers an escape in a busy metropolis.

Powerscourt Hotel Resort and Spa, Ireland

With views of the Great Sugar Loaf Mountain and the Wicklow hills, Powerscourt Hotel Resort and Spa is an awe inspiring place to escape for half term, and when films like PS. I Love You have been filmed nearby, there’s a sense of romance in the air. The spa here was designed by famed brand ESPA for ultimate enjoyment, and is complete with a 20-metre Swarovski Crystal-lit pool, a thermal suite, a serenity room, and a cutting edge fitness studio - it’s really incredibly special.