A wise man once said that if you’re tired of London, you’re tired of life. He obviously hadn’t dealt with overcrowded tubes, or walking down a busy street (pick up the pace, people). We are tired, and could do with some time out – if only to re energise and get back to loving life in the big smoke, Central line and all. For those me-time moments, we’ve rounded up the best five spas that are just one hour from London, because you deserve a break (and so do we).
By Rachel Spedding
-
1 Greenwoods Hotel and Spa, Essex
Time to take steed from our man David Attenborough and turn to nature for a little R&R. ‘Forest bathing’ is just what the mind, body and soul needs as a break from the city hustle, helping to reduce blood pressure and stress hormones. For just that, pop the Greenwoods Hotel and Spa into your sat nav and make way to the countryside this weekend. If all it’s greenery fails to help you unwind, put your feet up (in complimentary slippers, of course), and try the dreamy massages available here.
-
2 Holiday Inn, Reading
Just outside of Reading, Espirit Spa is within seriously close reach of London, so you can clock off from work on Friday and be unwinding in luxury not long after. Or swap those Saturday shopping plans for a deep tissue massage, and book a spa day trip, without the hefty price tag. The afternoon tea package is my favourite (for obvious reasons) – enjoy a 55 minute Dermalogica treatment, use of the spa facilities, and a spot of lunch feat. finger sandwiches. That’s my kind of relaxation.
-
3 Ockenden Manor Hotel and Spa, West Sussex
Let’s face it, disconnecting from our phones is never easy, but all that time attached to a screen can have real impact on our physical and mental health – from affecting posture and eyesight, to prompting anxiety. Ockenden Manor is a great venue for a digital detox (there’ll be no iPhone required in the outdoor pool, folks). A massage, manicure, or twenty minutes of flotation therapy, is sure to be more interesting than your inbox. Unplug, and relax.
-
4 Bicester Hotel Golf and Spa, Oxfordshire
Right after sauvignon blanc, top-to-toe pampering is my next best cure for feeling zen. Hit the M40 and you’ll be at Bicester Hotel Golf and Spa in just over an hour, then get straight to the ‘spa garden’ for a real chill-out. A change of scenery is thought to help with motivation and de-stressing, so with Oxford nearby, I’d make it a weekend trip – head for a Sunday Roast post-massage, because the only thing better than an hour of relaxation is a yorkshire pudding, obviously.
-
5 Breathe Spa, at Lingfield Park, Surrey
Nothing beats chatting with your best mate when you want to unwind. Take ‘em with you on your trip out of London and head to Breathe Spa at Lingfield Park Resort to combine those deep convos, with a deep tissue massage. It’s only a 45-minute train ride from Central London, and the views of Lingfield Park racecourse are mighty fine too. Book the couples package and enjoy a mud serail together – it cleanses the skin, helps to reduce toxins, and (let’s be honest) will probably be hilarious.
A trip away sounds tempting, right? With Treatwell, you can book beauty online at all your favourite spas and salons – simple, hassle-free, and you can do it on the go. Click here to plan your break.
FAQs
Which spas can you visit within one hour from London?
You can relax at Greenwoods Hotel and Spa (Essex), Espirit Spa at Holiday Inn (Reading), Ockenden Manor Hotel and Spa (West Sussex), Bicester Hotel Golf and Spa (Oxfordshire), and Breathe Spa at Lingfield Park (Surrey). All these destinations are easily reachable from London in about one hour.
What treatments can you enjoy on a spa day near London?
You can choose from massages, manicures, flotation therapy, and even unique experiences like a mud serail to cleanse your skin. Many spas also offer packages that include lunch, afternoon tea, and full access to facilities for a complete day of relaxation.
How can forest bathing at Greenwoods Hotel and Spa help you?
Forest bathing helps reduce blood pressure and stress hormones, making it a perfect escape from the busy city. Surrounded by countryside, you can unwind in nature and enhance your wellbeing during your visit to Greenwoods Hotel and Spa.
Is there a quick spa getaway accessible by train from Central London?
Yes, Breathe Spa at Lingfield Park is only a 45-minute train ride from Central London. It’s an ideal spot for unwinding with a friend, offering views of the racecourse and an array of couple’s treatments like deep tissue massages and mud serials.
Can you book spa packages online for these locations?
Absolutely, you can book your spa day or package at all of these locations online with Treatwell. The process is straightforward and convenient, allowing you to plan your break on the go.