There are few things better than a spa break which takes you far away from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life and into a relaxing, zen world of water, food, sleep and maybe some alcohol.
Champneys Tring is Britain’s original health spa, having opened in 1925, and is set in 170 acres of Hertfordshire countryside on the once Rothschild family-owned estate with a long winding driveway.
It offers modern and traditional spa treatments, a relaxation hideaway, manicure and pedicure salon and a Marine and Wellness spa.
The spa has a comprehensive range of offerings from classic spa treatments to advanced health and fitness programs.
Facilities include a 25-metre swimming pool, thalassotherapy pool, fitness studios, gym, steam room and sauna, and more.
I went for a relaxing weekend with my boyfriend, and the good thing about Champneys Tring is that its within such easy driving and train reach of London.
Room check-in is from 3pm but you can use the spa facilities from 9am - a great way to really make the most of your trip.
We arrived mid-afternoon and our garden-view suite was ready.
It was breathtakingly beautiful with a comfy lounge, king-size bed, fresh fruit, two TVs, bath and shower and stunning views into the garden of the spa.
We wasted no time in changing into our dressing gowns and flip flops as kindly provided by reception and headed to the spa area.
With a jetted pool, hot tub indoor and out, cold plunge pool, sauna and steam room, we spent the afternoon relaxing, immersing ourselves in the spa, chatting and napping.
It was fun to also be able to play games such as table tennis and badminton outside the spa – with an excellent provision of things to do and ways to spend the day outside the café.
The spa is open until 10pm so you can stay and relax until as late as you like – with light features making the spa look even more spectacular at night.
If you want to eat instead however, dinner bookings are included in rates, and the restaurant is lovely with a range of options for starter, main and dessert.
We enjoyed our three-course meal with some gins on the side, and headed out after dinner to watch Mamma Mia in the outdoor screening with blankets and popcorn.
It felt magical and like we were on a ‘proper’ holiday abroad.
We slept well in our second cosy dressing gowns which were in our rooms waiting for us, before we got up for a buffet breakfast the next day which was also included in our stay.
Although you have to check out of your room by 11am, you can use the spa facilities that day which again ensures you get the most out of your money, time and zen.
Champneys Tring makes for the perfect UK staycation, spa break, and some time for real rejuvenation and relaxation in a setting that is bursting with amenities, things to do and luxuries.
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