Surprising Spa Sojourns in the United Kingdom
Beyond the traditional spa, Britain’s unique, quirky and historic wellness escapes invite visitors to unwind in unexpected ways.
Britain is a great wellness destination due to its blend of historic spa traditions, abundant natural landscapes for outdoor activities, diverse modern retreats, and a booming wellness economy. From innovative spas and holistic therapies, to tranquil countryside escapes in manors and castles, there’s a spa for everyone in the United Kingdom.
And perhaps it shouldn’t come as a surprise! The word “bath” comes from Old English bæð, meaning “immersing the body in water,” derived from Proto-Germanic roots related to warmth—and yes, the English city of Bath is named directly from this word, as it was famous for its Roman-built baths (Aquae Sulis) which the Anglo-Saxons called Baðum or Baðan, meaning “at the baths”.
So, Great Britain can be granted some historic lineage in the field of wellness—spas and saunas in particular, which are often incorporated into other outdoor pleasures, from seaside escapes to golfing greens to farms.
Unique Spa Experiences
Kontrast (Manchester, England): Opened in late 2024 as the UK’s first sauna and ice bath café, Kontrast offers a one-of-a-kind wellness experience in the heart of Manchester. Guests move between hot saunas and chilling cold plunges then unwind with fresh juice or coffee in a communal space designed to bring people together through wellness.
Wild Water Sauna (Throughout England): Experience England’s coastline with Wild Water Sauna, a wood-fired mobile sauna that visits new seaside locations each month, from Whitesands Bay to Hilton Court Gardens and Porthclais Harbour. Bask in the warmth, plunge into the ocean, then cool off in the outdoor showers for the ultimate blend of hot-and-cold rejuvenation.
Hwyl Outdoor Sauna (Saundersfoot, Wales): The word hwyl embodies a uniquely Welsh sense of energy, joy, and connection — and this spa experience captures exactly that. Set along the Pembrokeshire coast, guests warm up in a wood-fired sauna before refreshing sea dips and sweeping beachfront views.
SCHLOSS Roxburghe (Scottish Borders, Scotland): A Scottish castle reimagined as a wellness retreat, SCHLOSS Roxburghe combines historic grandeur with spa indulgence. Nestled in the rolling Borders countryside, the spa features luxurious treatments inspired by local ingredients, offering Scottish wellness at its most refined. If you’re looking for wow factor, this is it. Book here.
Blissful British Stays
Unwind in style at some of Britain’s most luxurious wellness retreats. From thermal spa experiences in a restored Victorian estate to Scottish seaweed baths, there is no shortage of ways to decompress in Britain in 2026.
Dunkeld House Hotel, (Perthshire, Scotland): A stunning manor house blending Scottish heritage with modern luxury nestled in the Perthshire woodlands. Guests can decompress with Hebridean seaweed baths, Ishga hot stone massages, and revitalizing nature walks through the hotel’s 280-acre woodland estate.
Ragdale Hall Spa (Leicestershire, England): Recently named one of Condé Nast Traveler’s best destination spas in the world, Ragdale Hall blends British countryside charm with world-class luxury. Set in a restored Victorian estate, Ragdale Hall offers thermal experiences, a rooftop infinity pool, and personalized programs designed by wellness specialists.
Farlam Hall Hotel and Restaurant (Cumbria, England): Those looking for ultimate relaxation should head to this Oxfordshire oasis and indulge in a range of holistic-based wellness treatments through their Sycamore Retreat. The retreat facility offers an array of treatments including a hot stone massage, a jade facial, and an Indian head massage.
Chewton Glen (Hampshire, England): This country house hotel offers a quintessentially English escape, complete with forest-set treehouse suites and a world-class spa. Guests can enjoy bespoke facials, holistic rituals, and fitness classes before dining on locally sourced cuisine at The Dining Room.
Vale Resort Estate (Vale of Glamorgan, South Wales): Set on 650 acres of countryside, Vale Resort Estate is home to a rejuvenating spa, championship golf course and fine dining. Treatments range from replenishing facials, complemented by saunas, steam rooms, and a 20-meter swimming pool – ideal for unwinding in the Welsh countryside.
Wellness in the Wild
Connect with nature in Britain’s most peaceful landscapes – from highland cows to coastal walks and dark skies parks, visitors can recharge like never before.
King Charles III England Coast Path (Yorkshire, England): The final 42-mile stretch between Easington and Bridlington has just opened, completing a continuous walking route from the Scottish border to Lincolnshire. This coastal path offers windswept beaches, towering sea cliffs, and peaceful seaside views, especially atmospheric in winter.
Dumble Farm (Beverley, England): Visit this charming farm for a cuddly cow experience and meet the infamous highland cows and the farmers who care for them. Visitors can enjoy farmer lead tours where they can learn about the history of the farm, cuddle retired cows and goats, and finish with home basked cakes and tea.
Castlefield Viaduct (Manchester, England): A Victorian-era steel viaduct transformed into a “garden in the sky,” blending greenery and industrial heritage. Stroll along elevated walkways lined with winter-flowering plants and explore themed gardens showcasing native British species.
Adventures for the Soul (North Yorkshire, England): A wellness experience designed to reconnect visitors with nature through night walks, moon bathing, and stargazing. Guided five-mile walks under the moonlight feature stories of local myths and magic and time to explore the constellations.
Pool Bridge Farm (York, England): Join a monthly full-moon swim in open-air pools and lakes for a cosmic recharge under the stars. Before and after the swim, guests can warm up in cozy on-site saunas for a restorative wellness experience.
