Are you looking for a spa break that is a short commute out of the City? Well, look no further because that the team at City Matters have tried and tested some wonderful spa breaks out of the City. Read on to find out more.
Glass House Retreat
There’s something extremely special about this place. Less than an hour from the City, Glass House Retreat is is a purpose-built detox and wellness retreat where you can reconnect with yourself.
On arrival, we were greeted by friendly staff who gave us the grand tour of the property. After that, we made our way to our room – a superior double. The rooms are generously sized and are equipped with everything that you’ll need for an overnight stay at the retreat. The rooms on the first floor also boast stunning views of the countryside.
This property includes a gym, yoga studio, and an impressive spa. Whether you want to swim in the natural swimming pond, practice some mindfulness in the outdoor wellness dome or relax in the outdoor hot tub – there is quite truly something for everyone. They also host a wonderful range of classes to try during your stay. One to try, is the sound bath – a wonderful experience that will have you feeling zen. We also loved the aqua session, which was led by a wonderful instructor.
The treatments at this spa are wonderful. We’d recommend trying out a massage. The massage therapist uses her expertise and knowledge to understand where the body needs the most work and constantly works with the client to learn about where their aches and pains sit. The treatment rooms are spacious and luxurious and are the perfect spot to relax an unwind.
The menu at the retreat is superb. The food here is 100% plant-based meals, which are all made from locally sourced and freshly delivered ingredients. We’d recommend the pancakes for breakfast, absolutely divine. The spring rolls are also delicious and a great starter. However, the star of the show for us, is the chocolate brownie – outstanding.
Overall, this is a magnificent wellness retreat just outside of the City that allows you to rejuvenate, relax and recharge. If you’re in need of a wellness retreat that kickstarts you back into a healthy regime then this is the place to visit. The team at City Matters are huge fan of this retreat – it is a phenomenal wellness experience that combines tranquillity and luxury.
Harrow Rd Upminster RM14 3BP
Down Hall Hotel & Spa
This luxurious retreat set in 110 acres of woodland, is the perfect location for your next spa visit outside of the City. Down Hall Hotel and Spa situated on the Hertfordshire and Essex border is a stunning 14th-century mansion.
The Eden Spa provides a tranquil escape away from the hustle and bustle of City life. The hydrotherapy pool is the main focus as you walk into the spa and really is a wonderful treat. They also host a sauna, steam and relaxation room if you’re looking to recharge. Staff at the spa are wonderfully pleasant and go over and beyond to ensure that you are well-looked after.
It seems almost criminal to take advantage of the wonderful treatments on offer at this boutique spa. This property has four treatment rooms, for our massage we opted for the back, neck & shoulder massage. The rooms are spacious and the perfect spot for some relaxation. As the masseuse began to work the ESPA essential oils into our muscles with just the right amount of pressure at the points that need the most work. This is a great massage that leaves you feeling relaxed and rested.
The feature rooms at this property are luxurious, spacious and boast stunning views of the grounds.
Dining at Down Hall Hotel & Spa is a great experience. The Garden Room restaurant is a great spot for dinner and serves dishes from a modern English menu. For starters, the Potted hand-picked crab is a great choice, for mains the chicken breast combines the functions of a charcoal grill and a barbecue, served with triple cooked chips – this dish is superb. However, the star of the show for us is the dark chocolate delice accompanied by Tia Maria ice cream – absolutely divine. The service from staff is also fantastic, they are friendly, chatty and attentive.
We loved our stay at Down Hall Hotel and Spa and if you’re looking to escape the City for a few nights then you need to check out this place. Whether you’re staying for one night or two – you’re in for an unforgettable experience.
Matching Road CM22 7AS
4 Star Hotels Essex | Boutique Hotels Essex | Best Hotels in UK
For the latest headlines from the City of London and beyond, follow City Matters on Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.
