As autumn approaches, children and grandchildren return to school and university, and you’re likely ready for some child-free downtime.
From wellbeing retreats based around nature and mindfulness to the latest top-end spas where a relaxing break isn’t complete without a dip in the hydrotherapy pool and a trip to the amethyst-crystal steam room, we have you covered.
Here are five breaks to plan now.
1. The Spa at Lucknam Park, Chippenham, Wiltshire
This elegant country house sits at the end of a beautiful tree-lined drive that’s just one small part of a 500-acre estate in Wiltshire.
You’ll find indoor and outdoor pools, luxury treatments, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. You might opt to relax in the hydrotherapy pool, Japanese salt room, and the infrared sauna, or get active at the tennis courts and equestrian centre.
The Cotswold manor house has a walled garden, extensive grounds dotted with woodland trees, and winding streams to explore.
But you’ll also find the height of luxury, the latest technology, and modernity, in the form of the glass-fronted spa. Relaxing treatment rooms lead onto a private spa garden for guests only, so the tranquillity doesn’t stop when the treatment does.
2. Utopia Spa at Alexander House, Sussex
This five-star hotel is located within 120 acres of peaceful Sussex countryside, but has a hint of Ancient Greece. Relax between the classical columns that surround the indoor pool or head for a Mediterranean-inspired therapy at the Temple Spa, with 21 treatment rooms to choose from.
You’ll also find a nail spa, a gym, and jogging trail if you want to blow off some steam.
Alexander House is a red-brick manor that was once home to the poet Percy Shelley. Mullioned windows meet floor-to-ceiling glass and the rooms, too, are traditional with a modern twist.
The sheltered Spa Garden houses a raised jacuzzi surrounded by greenery, and there’s a quirky barrel sauna too.
With an overall focus on tranquillity and calm, you’ll find plenty of quiet nooks to lie and relax by the pool or curl up by a fire with a good book.
3. Mind Over Mountains, the Peak District
If you want some fresh air, exercise, and mindfulness alongside your relaxation, you might opt for Mind Over Mountains, a charity that provides wellbeing adventures across the UK, including in the Peak District.
Enjoy invigorating hill walks as you take in the stunning scenery of the Peaks, with meditation along the way and a chance to chat, both with your fellow guests and the charity’s expert counsellors who’ll be walking with you.
Weekend wellbeing retreats include sessions for reflection on mental health, alongside the physical exercise. Accommodation is dormitory-style and so, while a long way from the luxury found elsewhere on our list, does offer the chance for camaraderie and social interaction with like-minded individuals.
4. Head Over Hills, West Sussex
Another more rustic, outdoorsy option is Head Over Hills. This mix of adventure and modern luxury is situated in the South Downs national park.
The accommodation includes a sundeck, wood-fired hot tub, and meditation pod. Huge windows allow the beautiful countryside in, with panoramic views available across the South Downs, and a calming bluebell wood on the doorstep for nature walks and mindfulness.
As well as bike rental for the more adventurous, Head Over Hills also provides wellbeing and wellness activities from Pilates and yoga to vegan cookery and art classes.
Whatever rest and relaxation look like to you, the hosts are happy to help you find it.
5. Kent Spa Hotel, Kent
If you’d rather enjoy the English countryside from the luxury of a Garden of England manor house, the Kent Spa Hotel at Eastwell Manor could be the right choice for you.
The historic manor is set within immaculate gardens, sweeping lawns, and ancient woodland, with the Kent countryside beyond.
Here you’ll find the timeless elegance of sweeping staircases, wood-panelled walls, and timber-beamed ceilings. Plus, the crisp modern lines of the hotel’s tranquil spa that promises sleek treatment rooms and high-tech thermal experiences.
Guilt-free relaxation this autumn
However you choose to rest and recuperate this autumn, we’re on hand to provide you with the reassurance that luxury is affordable… and well deserved.
Your long-term financial plan isn’t all about tax mitigation and legacy; it’s about giving you the means – and the peace of mind – to enjoy yourself in the present, confident that the future is looked after. So now might be the perfect time to treat yourself.
And if you need reassurance that this is affordable, email hello@globeifa.co.uk or call us on 020 8891 0711 to discuss how Globe IFA’s expert financial advisors can help you.
