House Spa at Dormy House, Cotswolds
This charming 17th-century farmhouse hotel has emerged from a £10m facelift with an impressive new spa.
Two years in the planning, the groundwork has certainly paid off. Everything from the deeply comfy massage beds to the post-treatment sorbets shout ‘perfectionism’.
At the heart of the spa lies a generous relaxing-area-cum-café dominated by a funnel-shaped statement fireplace. Chess sets and cashmere throws set the tone while a selection of ‘muffin tops’ and ‘posh nibbles’ from the pastry chef ensure spa-goers don’t go hungry.
Sticking to a wholesome British theme, all treatments are by Temple Spa (a family-owned English brand) and for a touch of glamour, there’s a champagne nail bar.
The spa menu has all the usual offerings – therapists are trained by Pure Massage – as well as a few untraditional ones including Rasul Mud therapy and ‘Mediterranean marinade’ facials.
But for the ultimate indulgence, the ‘Silent Night Lavender Sleep’ consists of two and a half hours of massage, scrubbing, wrapping and foot rubbing, sure to settle even the worst of insomniacs.
I didn’t try this but I did roadtest the lavender sauna which was sadly disappointing. I could barely detect the lavender collected from Snowshill just down the road. The salt-infused steam room and outdoor hydro-pool on the other hand, were both brilliant.
The hotel attached to the spa deserves recognition too. A feast of original flagstone floors, wood paneling and exposed stone hearths, its cheerful Todhunter Earle interiors and friendly staff make it the most welcoming of retreats – ideal for a girly weekend getaway.
Must-have treatment: Vital Energy massage (60 minutes/£85)
Wow factor: Veuve Clicquot Champagne nail parlour
Insider tip: Bagsy the sofa in the Blue Lounge, the hotel’s chicest space, for pre-dinner drinks.
Dormyhouse.co.uk