Where to go and what to do on a spa break in East Anglia

What can you do on a spa break in East Anglia?

Spanning Norfolk, Suffolk, and Cambridgeshire, including major towns and cities like Cambridge, Norwich, Ipswich, and Peterborough, East Anglia invites spa goers to enjoy a variety of wellbeing experiences from countryside retreats to urban escapes. With that much scope, city breaks with friends or a relaxed evening after work make for an inspiring way to enjoy your downtime. Meanwhile, those with a passion for countryside jaunts can discover green spaces to explore, exercise, and unwind. Here are some of the top recommended things to do.

Norwich Castle, Norfolk

For history buffs, Norwich Castle is a must-see - a medieval royal fortification in the city of Norwich. Constructed under the instruction of William the Conqueror, it's an impressive motte-and-bailey castle complete with a museum and art gallery holding interesting antiquities and telling an abundance of stories.

Sutton Hoo, Suffolk

Going back in time once again; Sutton Hoo is an Anglo-Saxon royal burial site set on around 270 acres. Enjoying views over the River Deben, it's considered one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time. Guests can walk around the tranquil site, discovering the history of the ship burial of an Anglo-Saxon king and his treasured possessions, as well as Tranmer House, which was added to the site in 1910.

Constable Country, Suffolk

Considered one of the most picturesque parts of the UK, Constable Country is set within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Suffolk - a rural landscape that famously inspired the painter John Constable. Constable was both born here, and featured it in many of his most celebrated works, including locations you can still see today such as the River Stour and Dedham Vale.

The Broads National Park

Spanning both Norfolk and Suffolk, The Broads National Park is an opportunity to enjoy the natural scenery as well as take part in a world of activities, from water sports to arts and crafts. Sitting between the two counties, it's considered Britain's largest protected wetland, covering fens, marshes and woodlands, and offering a haven for wildlife.

Seaside towns

A fairly expansive category, but one that mustn't be overlooked, the seaside towns across East Anglia invite guests to enjoy a best of British coastal escape. From Great Yarmouth (known for its long sandy beach and Pleasure Beach and Joyland amusement parks), to the impressive cliffs of Hunstanton, the port town of Wells-next-the-Sea, the brightly coloured beach huts of Southwold, and more, don't miss out on a trip to the beach.

Where can you go on a spa break in East Anglia?

Along with a wide range of activities available in East Anglia, ensuring there's something for everyone, there's also a variety of spas and spa hotels to visit. Whether you fancy a romantic getaway or a family retreat, a celebration with friends, or a little time to yourself, there is a spa destination to suit. Here are a few favourite spa destinations in East Anglia for inspiration.

For romantic spa breaks: Norfolk Mead Hotel, Norwich

The Norfolk Mead is a boutique, four-star hotel where the owners pay special attention to all the details. As a result, guests enjoy a really considered experience, from serving local fare in their award-winning restaurant, to offering unique treatments in their purpose-built spa. Perfect for a romantic getaway, the retreat has the warmth of a home away from home alongside the sophistication of an immaculately run destination offering professional hospitality.

A spa break with friends: Milsoms Kesgrave Hall, Suffolk

A four-star boutique retreat in Suffolk, Milsoms Kesgrave Hall is surrounded by beautiful countryside but is a stylish destination that's perfect for a group of friends. Celebrate special occasions in style at this chic, modern, retreat, from time in the spa, which is flooded with natural light, to rooms and suites offering restful spaces with countryside views. End the day with a meal in their brasserie restaurant, and a drink at the bar choosing from artisan beers, local ciders, a wide selection of gins, cocktails, wines, and champagne.

A spa for special occasions: Bedford Lodge Hotel, Newmarket

A luxurious hotel and spa, Bedford Lodge Hotel has been a firm favourite amongst spa goers for decades. Blending the character of a former Georgian hunting lodge once owned by the Duke of Bedford with contemporary style, it is next to some of the most famous paddocks and training stables in the world, surrounded by Newmarket's horse racing heritage. The spa is a purpose-built, adult-only space, with exquisite facilities, from five water experiences, to a rasul, hammam, relaxation area, beauty room for manicures and pedicures, spa lounge, and 10 treatment rooms.

Celebrating in style: Talbooth House and Spa, Colchester

A luxury, boutique hotel on the North Essex Border, Talbooth House and Spa is a four-star retreat taking in views across Constable’s countryside and the Dedham Vale. With 12 individually styled rooms, an award-winning restaurant, and contemporary spa, it's an idyllic destination for romantic breaks or time with a small group of friends. The spa is a real cherry on top, with facilities spanning a tennis court, outdoor pool, open-air hot tub, infrared sauna, and six gorgeous treatment rooms.

A family-friendly retreat: Five Lakes Resort, Essex

An expansive resort, Five Lakes Resort has something for everyone, from two 18-hole golf courses in the grounds to badminton, table tennis, and a variety of dining experiences. Set within 320 acres, guests can choose from 194 rooms and suites, many with wonderful views. Dine all day long, whether it's in the dining room, or on the terrace, and enjoy your leisure time. There are eight tennis courts as well as badminton, squash, table tennis and a gym. The spa is home to a pool, sauna and steam room, and a manicure and pedicure room catering for up to seven people at a time. There are also 12 treatment rooms where therapists use Elemis in their collection of treatments. Crucially for families, there are 28 family rooms and children are allowed in the pool at all times.