A little magic for a Pennyhill Park spa day
It was unreal! That's my overriding reaction to Pennyhill Park. The luxury Surrey spa is well known for being exceptional, and it did not disappoint. We arrived early in the morning and immediately we were mesmerised by the mist rising off the outdoor pools, ready and waiting for us to go for a swim. It was magic.
An exceptional Surrey spa
First of all we were shown around the 45,000 sq. ft spa with its wealth of facilities and 23 beautiful treatment rooms. There's so much to see and do here, whether you're staying overnight or visiting for a truly special Surrey spa day. It's a world that flows from the inside out (you can literally swim from one area to another), with indoor and outdoor pools, hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms, a mud room and foot spas. The outdoor pool is open all year round, while the ballroom pool has underwater music. The private cabanas are also gorgeous, each complete with a copper bath, loungers, a fridge filled with drinks, tea and coffee facilities, and the option to order food straight to your lounger.
Spa brunch in the dedicated restaurant
Next we had time to relax in the dedicated spa restaurant, Themis, where we were treated to pastries and orange juice with a view of the pools before we headed off to use the facilities and to have a treatment each. What's really lovely about having a restaurant in the spa itself, is that you can choose to stay in your robes and slippers while you dine, which is perfect if you have already spent time in the pool or you have had your treatment.
The best facial I’ve ever had
Three of us had our treatments first, all enjoying something different. I had the Diamond Energy Facial, which is described as a 60-minute 'girl’s best friend' - and it is. An amazing treatment from Natura Bissé, it uses their luxurious Diamond range of products.
After putting you at ease with a couple of deep inhalations of aromatherapy oil, the treatment begins with a careful exfoliation before the Diamond nectar serum is applied, followed by a sculpting massage to lift the skin. Next, a cooling algae mask firms the skin, and your hands are gently massaged, which is incredibly relaxing. Active ingredients including Artemia salina, the Smart Energy Complex, retinol, and marine DNA flood the skin with energy, making it appear rejuvenated and vibrant.
By the end my skin felt amazing - I think it's the best facial I've ever had, and my therapist was wonderful.
Luxury facilities and a decadent spa lunch
While the other three team members had their treatments we spent time in the pools, before gathering together in the restaurant again. There are so many wonderful things to choose from on their menus, from wraps and open sandwiches to soups and Buddha bowls. We opted for spa burgers, and I couldn't resist the most incredible hot chocolate - they even brought over a tray of toppings to choose from including flakes and marshmallows!
An award-winning spa hotel
We completed the day with a tour of the hotel, which sits in a separate building to the spa itself, but all close together so if you are staying it's an easy stroll from one to the other. Several of the rooms (which are in 11 categories), are currently being refurbished, so I can't wait to go back and see them. Each of the suites has its own style - I think one was bigger than my house - definitely worth the upgrade for a special occasion. For foodies, it’s worth noting that their Laytmer restaurant has been awarded a Michelin Star and five AA Rosettes, while Hillfield is their more casual but equally incredible space.
Who would you recommend Pennyhill Park to?
While there's no question that the hotel and spa are perfect for romantic getaways, the size of Pennyhill Park, and the beauty of it all, also makes it great for groups or time with a friend. There were guests of all ages there, and they do an amazing job of appealing to lots of different people and occasions thanks to the variety of things to do and experiences to enjoy.
Top tips for visiting Pennyhill Park
- Definitely spend time in the spa lounge. They go above and beyond with their service.
- Having a treatment is a must - they're luxurious but it's the best treatment I've ever experienced.
- I absolutely recommend a Pennyhill Park spa day but an overnight break would also be ideal because you could spend all day there and still have more to do. I guess we will just have to go back!