BEAUTY
SPA STRUCK
After the festive hubbub, treat yourself or a loved one to the ultimate relaxation the country’s best spas have to offer
THE GROVE HOTEL, Hertfordshire
THE HOTEL: Merely 18 miles from central London is this ancient country estate. You can explore The Grove’s 300 acres via its meandering nature trail (created by the Wildlife Trust and a must for twitchers), but if you’re not feeling particularly outdoorsy, the rooms come with deep roll-top baths and exceptionally comfy beds. The restaurants on site are powered by a thriving kitchen garden. Opt for hearty portions and fresh seasonal fare at The Glasshouse restaurant. The Stables menu is all homemade, wholesome, artisanal food. For traditional Japanese sushi, there’s the Lounges and authentic Indian fine dining is available at Madhu’s.
THE
STARS: Rochelle Humes has stayed at this stunning Hertfordshire retreat.
THE
SPA: The sprawling, subterranean Sequoia spa is newly refurbished and awardwinning. The ink-black mosaic pool (right) is its centrepiece, but we recommend you seek out the warm, dimly-lit relaxation room for its impossibly soft beds and pin-drop quiet. The treatments on offer range from holistic, energyboosting rituals to targeted, antiageing facials, but if you’re carrying any tension, book in for the new signature massage – it’s no-frills and completely bespoke and your aches or pains will be pummelled away. Then sit back and watch the world go by with a delicious broth or poke bowl from the Sequoia Kitchen.