Whether you’re a seasoned spa-goer or a newbie to the world of wellness, everyone loves a bit of pampering. Dreaming of a getaway filled with soothing treatments, warm pools and breathtaking views? Northern England and Scotland are home to some of the best spa hotels in the UK, offering luxurious weekend getaways and a serene escape from everyday life.
To help you decide on your next self-care investment, we’ve scored each spa out of 10 based on their scores from both Google and Tripadvisor. From country retreats to city hideaways, here are the 16 best spas in the UK that will guarantee pure relaxation. Grab your robe and slippers - it’s time to unwind!
Score: 9.7/10
Ratings: Google 4.7, Tripadvisor 5
Standing proudly at the west end of Princes Street, just minutes from Edinburgh Waverley Station, the Spa at The Caledonian offers a luxurious haven of tranquillity in one of the city's most famous and historic hotels. Awarded Best Luxury City Spa in Northern Europe at the 2024 World Luxury Spa Awards, this classy establishment is well worth a visit. The spa’s unique philosophy centres around the power of seaweed (specifically organic Scottish seaweed, thanks to their skincare partner Ishga). With views over Edinburgh Castle and a superb range of treatments, this spa deserves its place on our list of the best spa hotels in the UK.
Score: 9.4/10
Ratings: Google 4.4, Tripadvisor 5
There are so many spas in the North West to choose from, but The Spa at the Edwardian Manchester should definitely be considered. Located in the iconic Free Trade Hall, this spa hotel has an impressive range of facilities, including a small yet perfectly formed swimming pool, sauna, steam room, hot tub and relaxation room. Treatments here include full-body massages, facials, and specialised rituals using ESPA products. Offering both physical relaxation and mental rejuvenation, this place is a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of Manchester city centre.
Score: 9.3/10
Ratings: Google 4.8, Tripadvisor 4.5
Pure Spa and Beauty at the Hilton is a tranquil retreat in the Scottish city of Glasgow. With a 15-meter pool, sauna, steam room and bubbling jacuzzi, this spa is a fabulous place to unwind. With three poolside treatment rooms, you can book one of their highly rated treatments including luxury facials, Swedish massage and deluxe pedicures. But don’t worry if the budget doesn’t stretch to a treatment, simply sit back and make the most of the fabulous facilities.
Score: 9.1/10
Ratings: Google 4.6, Tripadvisor 4.5
Brimstone Spa provides seriously stylish rest and relaxation in the glorious Lake District. Nestled in the heart of the Langdale Estate, every inch of the spa has taken inspiration from the natural beauty of the local area. There are two relaxation pools, one indoor and one outdoor, where you can sit and look out onto the woodlands beyond. Or maybe you’ll take it easy at one of the relaxation areas, before sweating it out at one of seven saunas. However you choose to spend your day, you won’t be disappointed at this stunning spa hotel.
Score: 9.1/10
Ratings: Google 4.6, Tripadvisor 4.5
Just 4.5 miles from Darlington train station, Rockliffe Hall Spa offers a luxurious experience in the stunning countryside of County Durham. With a hydrotherapy pool, heated relaxation lounge and immersive showers, it’s no wonder this place is a hit. The spa’s ‘Tropicarium’ combines the heat and humidity benefits of the traditional sauna and steam room for a uniquely relaxing experience, while the ‘Tepidarium’ is a place to truly switch off, with its heated beds and aromatherapy oils. In need of some true R&R? This is without a doubt one of the best spas in the North East.
Score: 9.1/10
Ratings: Google 4.6, Tripadvisor 4.5
A local favourite, Hope Street Hotel offers one of the best spa days in the North West of England. Added to the hotel in 2021, the spa features state-of-the-art facilities in the heart of Liverpool. With its Himalayan salt sauna, herbal sauna and outdoor vitality pool, there’s a wealth of relaxation opportunities on offer. With high-end products from Temple Spa, it's ideal for those looking to pamper themselves.
Score: 9/10
Ratings: Google 4.5, Tripadvisor 4.5
Located in Edinburgh’s elegant New Town, the Kimpton Charlotte Square Spa provides an oasis of calm right in the city centre. With sophisticated interiors and luxurious treatments, this spa features an indoor pool, sauna, steam room and relaxation area that exudes a boutique feel. Using high-quality Ishga products made from organic seaweed harvested in Scotland, treatments here are tailored to bring out a natural glow.
Score: 8.9/10
Ratings: Google 4.4, Tripadvisor 4.5
The award-winning Thorpe Park Hotel and Spa is handily located just outside Leeds. Offering tranquil-sounding packages such as 'Sheer Indulgence', 'Journey to New Beginnings' and 'Re-Charge’, this is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a spa day in Leeds. If you’re a spa newbie, Thorpe Park Hotel and Spa also provides taster treatments – each one is part of a more intensive treatment, so when you find the one that suits you, you can experience the longer version too.
Score: 8.5/10
Ratings: Google 4.5, Tripadvisor 4
The Spa at Blythswood Square covers an area of 10,000 square feet and incorporates nine luxury treatment rooms, a thermal suite with a range of experiences, two relaxation pools, a relaxing lounge and café area, plus several additional relaxation areas (quite impressive, we think you’ll agree!). If you’re looking for something a little bit different, the spa also offers a Twilight Spa and Dine experience, with full access to a series of wet, dry, cold and warm rooms, and a 2-course dinner – one of the best spa days in Glasgow if you ask us.
Score: 8.5/10
Ratings: Google 4.5, Tripadvisor 4
This eco-friendly spa, set in a former textile mill on the outskirts of Huddersfield, was the UK’s first sustainable spa. Titanic Spa’s charm lies in its commitment to both a luxurious experience as well as the environment, with solar-powered heating, its very own borehole providing pure Yorkshire water to the spa, and high-quality products from a host of organic brands. Their outdoor hot tub, mud chamber and salt-regeneration rooms are fan favourites, as well as their "Mud Rasul" treatment for a fun, cleansing experience.
Score: 8.4/10
Ratings: Google 4.4, Tripadvisor 4
North Lakes Hotel & Spa combines rustic charm with modern amenities, making it a popular stop for those looking for a spa day in the Lake District. The spa has a whirlpool, sauna, steam room, and offers a range of natural ESPA treatments. Known for its calming ambience and friendly staff, this spa is ideal for a weekend escape. Try their "Lake District Signature Treatment" for a bit of local flavour.
Score: 8.1/10
Ratings: Google 4.1, Tripadvisor 4
Situated in the heart of the Cumbrian countryside, the Macdonald Old England Spa is the ideal backdrop for a relaxing break from the stress of daily life. The spa boasts everything from a 20-metre heated indoor pool to Indian Head massage and reflexology treatments. Make it even sweeter by booking an afternoon tea spa package – relaxation and cakes, the perfect combination!
Score: 8/10
Ratings: Google 4, Tripadvisor 4
Despite being located directly in the middle of Manchester city centre, the award-winning Rena Spa at the Midland is a haven of peace and tranquillity and was recently voted one of Manchester’s best spa days by the experts at Spabreaks.com. The spa offers a plethora of different treatments, with everything from manicures and pedicures to specialist therapies such as ESPA body wraps and Serene Sleep. The best part? It’s just a short walk from Manchester Oxford Road Station.
Score: 8.1/10
Ratings: Google 4.1, Tripadvisor 4
Located in the heart of Sheffield, the Mercure Sheffield St. Paul's Hotel & Spa is a luxurious urban retreat. The spa, which is part of the Hotel’s expansive leisure facilities, features a full-service wellness experience with an indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room and an ice igloo to refresh and rejuvenate you. Additionally, there's a thermal suite and an aroma grotto for relaxation. You can indulge in treatments such as massages and beauty therapies, delivered with products from top brands like Comfort Zone and Ishga.
Score: 8.5/10
Ratings: Google 4.5, Tripadvisor 4
Wynyard Hall’s luxurious spa provides a tranquil retreat on the edge of a stunning lake in North East England. Known for its serene parkland views, the spa is an ideal destination for a day of pampering and relaxation. The facilities include a herbal steam room, sauna, salt inhalation room and outdoor hot tubs – perfect for unwinding while enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings. You can also indulge in the Rasul mud experience: a unique therapy involving mineral mud and steam to detoxify the skin.
Score: Awaiting score
Ratings: Unrated (opened 16th November)
A brand-new opening for winter 2025, The Sanctuary at Saltmoore is set against the picturesque backdrop of Whitby. This spa, part of the brand-new Saltmoore wellness retreat, combines innovative facilities with a serene natural environment. Guests can enjoy a heated indoor pool, a relaxing jacuzzi, sauna and steam room. There’s even a cryotherapy chamber – a rejuvenating cold treatment inspired by modern ice baths (a current hit with the celebs!) to boost skin health, mood and recovery. The six treatment rooms include one designed for couples, making it the ultimate choice for a joint relaxation experience.
Whether you’re seeking rustic charm, seaside vibes or a modern urban retreat, Northern England and Scotland have some of the best spas in the UK. For more ideas on exploring the North, head to our blog where you can read up on the best things to do in Edinburgh with kids or the best attractions in Manchester. Remember to check before you travel and book your tickets in advance on our website or using the TPExpress app.
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