The best spa breaks to suit your needs

Spa Selection

With so many spa breaks to choose from it can be a headache just trying to plan your relaxing treat. From urban getaways to exotic locations, here are the top retreats to suit every need and every budget.

Woman getting a facial

Urban retreat

If you fancy a spa break but don’t want to be tucked away in the country all weekend, try an urban spa. St David’s Hotel in Cardiff is a top-class spa with the luxury of being right on the doorstep of one of the most vibrant cities in the country. The Marine Spa will devise spa packages based on your needs for the weekend – from detox to weight loss, it is tailored to your needs. It is also the only place outside London where you can sample the famous Chantecaille flower facial.

Best value

If you don’t want to spend too much on your spa break then why not try the Harrogate Baths in Yorkshire? The beautiful Victorian spa opened in 1897 and has retained much of the interior decoration. With entrance to the spas costing £12.50 and treatments at £36, it is good value for money.

Ultra exotic

For the ultimate spa experience why not combine your spa break with a beach holiday? The Banyan Tree spa on Phuket, Thailand is the ultimate luxury destination. The spa pool villas come with their own "floating bed" pavilion amid tranquil, lily ponds for a truly magical experience. If you ever manage to grow bored of the gorgeous spa, venture out into the stunning and intoxicating world of Phuket with its breath-taking scenery and culture.

For the family

While holidays with the children are never that relaxing, why not try something you will all enjoy? Centre Parcs, Elveden Forest is a great compromise for energetic children and mothers who need a good pampering. Staying in a lodge in the park is relaxing in itself. As no cars are permitted within the park, the only way to travel is by bike, so you get fresh air and peace even away from the spa – pure bliss!

Best for men

If you want to send your better half, father or brother on a relaxing weekend then Seaham Hall in Northumberland is the perfect destination. The former home of Lord Byron, the notorious womanising poet, offers the ultimate Manpower package for £175. This includes Dead Sea-style flotation, muscle-melt massage and serenity face treatment followed by a lounge in the spa.