UK's Best Spa Destinations

We reveal the UK’s best spa destinations for indulging in a little R&R with your favourite plus one in tow (dogs included!)

THE PLUS-ONE

TEENAGE DAUGHTER

Executive editor Miranda McMinn visited London’s Mandarin Oriental Spa for some mum and daughter togetherness to celebrate Lucia’s 18th birthday.

First impressions The spa is located in the fabulously smart Mandarin Oriental – opposite Harvey Nichols in Knightsbridge, pretty much the poshest postcode in the country! Gold and lacquer abound and orchids are artfully placed everywhere. In the changing room there are lots of thoughtful touches, like a jewellery tray inside each locker.

And… relax

The spa is serene and the surfaces are soothing dark stone. In the dimly lit relaxation room, recliner beds each have their own reading light and there is a supply of nuts, fruit, tea and water, as well as stress balls and “mindfulness” colouring pads.

The treatments

I chose a Nescens Better Ageing Treatments De-Stressing Massage (with three children, a mother with dementia and a full-time job, I needed it!). The experience was sublime. Lucia chose a Rasul Water Temple treatment, which involves a full-body exfoliation and the application of mineral-rich mud, before relaxing in hot steam. Her skin was glowing afterwards and she fell asleep – and as phones must be left in lockers, she was forced to have a short digital detox. What a result!

How to book

Call 020 7838 9888 or email [e-mail]. The spa is open from 10am-8pm daily. Nescens Better Ageing Treatments De-Stressing Massage is £145 for 50 minutes. Rasul Water Temple is £150 for 50 minutes.

THE PLUS-ONE

FAMILY DOG

Beauty editor Fiona McKim longed for a break without leaving-the-dog-behind guilt. So she went to Cliveden House with Gigi the Shih Tzu as her sidekick.