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The UK's Best Spa Breaks in 2023

Friday 30 December 2022

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Quality time with your loved ones can be difficult to find - in today's fast paced society, it can be tricky to find times that suit everyone and activities everyone will love. But if there's one thing we can all agree on, its a pampered spa weekend to revive you and celebrate special occasions. Whether you're looking for the perfect way to celebrate your mum on Mother's Day, scouting out bridal party locations, or searching for the perfect weekend getaway.

We’ve made a list of some of our favourite spa locations in the UK to help inspire you. Many are located in areas of outstanding natural beauty, meaning you can admire the British countryside, as well as being completely spoilt at your chosen spa. All are easily accessible by train, so pick your favourite and make sure you buy Advance tickets with CrossCountry for great prices.

A woman wearing a white towel laying on her front with three black stones on her spine in a massage room with a green plant, massage oils and a Buddha statue in the background

Cheltenham

Many people flock to the Cotswolds for a relaxing break, whether they’re looking to get out into the beautiful countryside or relax in a luxury spa resort. Whichever you decide, you should consider staying in Cheltenham, a pretty spa town in Gloucestershire and the perfect place to base yourself for a Cotswold break. Natural spring waters first made Cheltenham’s name, and so as you would expect there is plenty of choice when it comes to spa breaks in Cheltenham.

To really indulge in regency splendour, there’s no better choice than Malmaison Cheltenham. This centrally located hotel has a selection of spa treatments on offer, and as it’s right in the heart of town you can also treat yourself to some retail therapy.

Whether you’re looking for a traditional feel or contemporary style, the Greenway Hotel and Spa has it all. This unique hotel is based in a beautiful old manor, set deep in the scenic rolling Cotswolds Hills. It’s an amazing retreat, just a short taxi ride from Cheltenham Spa station.

There are plenty more options available in and around the town centre, so definitely a location to check out for those planning a relaxing spa break.  

1 glass bottle filled with white lotion stood next to another glass bottle filled with oil, a makeup brush, a wooden loafer brush, and 2 small pots of makeup sat on a marble surface

Guildford

The tranquil Surrey countryside makes for an unparalleled destination for a Spa break. With green fields, rolling hills, and numerous quaint towns, it’s easy to see why many people choose this quiet corner of the world for their spa break.

Guildford Harbour hotel is the perfect choice for those wanting to stay in the town centre. The location gives you easy access to the vibrant market town and nearby countryside, while the indulgent pampering sessions and top-notch restaurant will tempt you to stay longer than first planned.

Just a short taxi ride from the station is the Manor House Hotel. Its location in the heart of the Surrey Hills gives you easy access to the beautiful countryside, including Newlands Corner, which boasts stunning views of the surrounding area. With sumptuous rooms and relaxing spa treatments, this is the perfect choice for a weekend retreat.

There are many more spas dotted around Guildford Station and the Surrey Hills, so you’re sure to find the perfect one for you.

A selection of small glass jars filled with beige coloured body scrub, stood on a table next to packets of body scrubs and other glass jars

Newquay

For a spa break with stunning coastal views, Cornwall can’t be beaten, and arguably there’s no better Cornish town than Newquay. With a plethora of luxury spas and a coastal location for walks along the beach, a spa break in Newquay is perfect for a girl’s weekend away.

The Headland Hotel offers panoramic views of the beach alongside luxurious rooms and pampering spa treatments. Just a short distance from the town centre, the grand building has breath-taking views of Fistral Beach - a favourite with surfers. There’s plenty of options to get out and about in the area, although with the range of spa treatments on offer, we’re not sure you’ll want to.

At the other end of Fistral Beach is the Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa. This location has equally stunning views of the beach and allows you to enjoy relaxing treatments too. The hotel is exclusively for adults making it the perfect escape from the little ones!

There are plenty more choices throughout Cornwall, so start planning your perfect seaside spa break today!

A close up of a woman in a white dressing gown laying on a white sheet getting her hand massaged

York

This historic city might be better known for its cultural holidays than its spa breaks, but if you haven’t investigated the great spas on offer in York, you’re missing a trick. Alongside relaxing spa treatments, you’ll find stunning architecture, fantastic restaurants and great shops, making it one of the best city breaks in the UK.

Just a stone’s throw from York Station you’ll find The Grand Hotel, a lavish hotel where you can stay in the lap of luxury. As this location is literally metres from the station, it’s the perfect choice for those travelling by train. A highlight here is the delicious high tea, available with prosecco if you like, and a great activity between spa treatments.

Just outside of York you’ll find the beautiful Middlethorpe Hall and Spa. This elegant hotel is the perfect destination for a sophisticated weekend away. Set in 20 acres of sculpted parkland, with an array of luxurious spa treatments, you’ll feel like royalty in no time.

A woman with brown hair laying on a blue pillow with cucumber slices on her eyes looking relaxed

These aren’t the only choices in Yorkshire, there’s plenty more in and around York itself or head to Leeds or Sheffield for a more metropolitan spa break. 

If you’re planning a spa weekend away, there’re plenty of choices across the CrossCountry Network, so check out our journey planner and begin planning your break! Remember to book an Advance ticket via our website or our Train Tickets app.

Written by Seb

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