Relax at the Day Spa at Whittlebury Hall

From the moment we arrived at Whittlebury Hall and Day Spa in rural Northamptonshire, we metaphorically folded up our existing lives and threw them right over our shoulders. For the next 24 hours we were taken into a routine that consisted of lunching in robes and receiving body treatments; that was certainly okay with us.

Aesthetically pleasing, Whittlebury Hall is a striking hotel and spa with timeless Georgian architecture including rich furnishings and fabrics, making it a deserving award winner. We were content to hear the hotel and spa have been acknowledged for their high standard of accommodation and service. The staff is attentive and there was always someone available if we did have any extra requirements.

Whittlebury Hall is adjacent to the Silverstone circuit and this has been taken into account by quirkily bestowing upon the three restaurants the names of famous cars, Astons – the restaurant with the relaxing environment. Murrays (named after Gordon Murray) – this restaurant explores creative dishes and unusual blends of flavour, and last but not least, Bentleys – a perfect restaurant for dining with family, friends and colleagues. We attended the Astons restaurant mostly and could not fault any of the dishes.  

Upon entering our hotel room we were surprised at the size: not the usual standard expectations of a double, creating a spacious and comforting atmosphere simultaneously. Sat on the table was a welcoming snack tray, water and even a bottle of wine. The rooms are equipped with plasma screen televisions, and everything else we could possibly need to maintain the relaxing atmosphere. After being kindly greeted by one of the girls who introduced us to each part of the spa, we changed into the robes provided for us, and headed to our two-course buffet lunch at the Terrace Café. This consisted of a wonderful selection of hot and cold foods that set us up for our spa treatments, and a long afternoon bathing in each different steam room and sauna.

The Day Spa is a later addition to Whittlebury Hall that opened in late 2005 and has grown a reputation of delivering exceptional experiences to all guests. One of the largest in the country, it stretches impressively across two levels with over 60 treatments to choose from, and is expertly delivered by highly skilled therapists who put us at ease and are obliging to every need.

“You are about to embark on a journey of spa experiences that will relax, rejuvenate and refresh both your mind and body…” When a person sees this written or hears spoken statements like this, you think “okay let’s give it a try” but usually never feel the full satisfaction of what you are offered. The spa experience at Whittlebury Hall aspires to keep a promise and that they do. 

The choice of the “Day Spa Experience” pleased us that much we wanted to book more treatments, however, they were so popular and fully booked, so be advised to book any extra treatments in advance!

The experience aims to “relieve the stress of everyday life with a great massage and soothing facial, ideal for those in need of a pick me up”. Included in this is the Back, Neck and Shoulder Massage which is heaven, followed by the Energising Express Facial. We had full use of Heat and Ice Experiences and The Leisure Club facilities. This is only one of many packages on offer. 

Facilities of the spa include a sanarium that incorporates a sauna, soft steam bath and herbal bath, a Caldarium Hot Room and a Soap Massage Room. There is also an Aromatherapy Crystal Steam Room, an Ice Cave, Roman Salt Steam, Experience Showers, Foot Spas and Hydrotherapy Pool. If this is not enough, there is the Hammam Steam Chamber and a Rasul Chamber for mud bathing, both of which offer treatments. The 23 treatments rooms also include a one-day flotation room, one dual room and four manicure, five pedicure and a spray tan room. Maybe we should rewrite the definition of paradise to include all these offerings.

Furthermore, only the best products from influences around the globe are used in the treatments; these include Elemis, ESPA, Clarins, Jessica, Kurland Skincare and Fake Bake.

As Christmas is just around the corner, the best gift you can offer a loved one is a trip here, especially on a tribute night. The atmosphere was bursting with energy; everybody on 2^nd November danced the night away at the Robbie Williams tribute evening and had the times of their lives until 2am. 

Whittlebury Hall and Day Spa is an outstanding place to go if you are looking to unwind; it cannot be faulted.

Verdict: •••••

Stephanie Anderson

For further information and to check out the Christmas offers, or to book treatments, visit the Whittlebury Hall website.