With the Queen's Platinum Jubilee on the horizon, we are in the mood for all things quintessentially British, and what could be more classic than an afternoon tea? Whether you're an advocate of jam first or cream on your scones, whether you prefer the sandwiches or the petit fours, afternoon tea and a spa break is a wonderful combination. Here are 10 of our top afternoon tea spa breaks.
London Marriott Hotel Park Lane, London
This magnificent luxury hotel and spa in the heart of London is five-star all the way. Within walking distance of some of the city’s most famous sites, it's located on Park Lane and is certainly a place fit for a Jubilee celebration. The spa is state-of-the-art, and the hotel is exquisitely designed from the marbled lobby to the celebrated restaurant. In glittering style reminiscent of the Art Deco era, enjoy afternoon tea and array of cocktails.
The Spa at The Royal Crescent Hotel, Bath
Fit for a scene in Bridgerton, The Spa at The Royal Crescent Hotel is in the heart of beautiful Bath, and offers the best of modern hospitality and heritage style. The Grade II listed Georgian townhouse is part of an architectural masterpiece by John Wood, and it's brimming with glorious details. There's a 12-metre candlelit pool, Elemental Herbology treatments, and magnificent rooms to stay in. There are a number of special spa packages on offer, including some that include an irresistible cream tea, which, in the warmer months, can be taken sat in the gorgeous English gardens.
The Spa at Breedon Priory, Derbyshire
A new addition to the spa scene, The Spa at Breedon Priory is a beautifully designed, purpose built spa experience. A day spa on the border of South Derbyshire and Leicestershire, each aspect of your day includes views of tranquil grounds and countryside. The contemporary barn-style building has enormous windows that let in an abundance of natural light, while The Wellbeing Suite is central to the experience with its range of facilities that flow from the inside out. For groups, he Hideaway is a secluded, private space with its own facilities and there's a delectable restaurant.
Whatley Manor Hotel and Spa, Wiltshire
If you're going to have afternoon tea then why not have it in a Michelin Star location? Whatley Manor Hotel and Spa is a gorgeous retreat in the Cotswolds, it is a country house complete with the height of modern experiences, whether from the private cinema, to live jazz and garden tours and the sumptuous spa. The spa features a thermal suite and therapies including a Natura Bissé Bubble.
Fairmont Windsor Park, Surrey
Fairmont Windsor Park is like a playground for lovers of luxury wellness. In Windsor Great Park, you're close to Her Majesty's favourite residence, staying in magnificent style. There are 40 acres of grounds and gardens to explore, as well as a 2,500 metre square spa with everything from cryotherapy to a courtyard hydrotherapy vitality pool, a Finishing Studio and barbering by the celebrated Truefitt & Hill. There are multiple dining experiences, not least the Orchid Tea Room for afternoon tea, and where the hotel's Pâtisserie and Chocolatier team present home-made treats with world-class teas and fine Champagne.
Lincombe Spa at Lincombe Hall Hotel, Devon
A pristine, adult-only hotel in South Devon, Lincombe Spa at Lincombe Hall Hotel is romantic and tranquil. It's a short walk from Torquay marina, and it serves fantastic food in the restaurant. Their afternoon tea is a classic with clotted cream and a glass of Prosecco. The spa is the pièce de résistance with beautiful facilities including an indoor 15-metre lap pool and an aromatherapy steam room using essences of coconut, orange blossom, eucalyptus and vanilla.
Gomersal Park Hotel and Dream Spa, Yorkshire
Set in beautiful Yorkshire countryside, Gomersal Park Hotel and Dream Spa is a restful environment with modern facilities offering complete relaxation. The Dream Spa has a range of treatments and facilities including two rasul mud chambers, which are perfect for couples or friends. They have a range of gorgeous spa experiences (Gold Retreat, Silver Retreat).
Old Thorns Hotel & Resort, Hampshire
A luxury, four-star resort in Hampshire, Old Thorns Hotel & Resort sits in the South Downs National Park but is just an hour from London by car. It has its own golf course and panoramic countryside views, food and drink are an important part of the experience and they are known for serving an exquisite afternoon tea. The spa and fitness facilities cover 26,000 square feet, including a crystal clear 20 metre swimming pool and sliding doors onto a beautiful terraced area.
The Lowry Hotel, Manchester
For those who are interested in a really special skincare experience, it has to be a trip to the spa at The Lowry Hotel. Offering five-star luxury in the heart of Manchester, it's on the banks of the River Irwell and is ultra modern. The hotel is beautifully designed, including The River Restaurant which overlooks Santiago Calatrava’s Trinity Bridge and serves a delectable afternoon tea. They are known for their spa treatments and expert knowledge using brands including Elemis and Aromatherapy Associates.
The Spa Hotel at Ribby Hall Village, Lancashire
A whole village of activities and wellness, The Spa Hotel at Ribby Hall Village is a magical place to stay. Ribby Hall Village as a whole offers a phenomenal variety of activities for guests including golf, racquet sports, and a Health Club with two swimming pools. Meanwhile, the spa hotel is adult-only and devoted to wellness. It's got a fabulous Zen Garden with a hydrotherapy pool, outdoor hot tub and a bar area, and treatments use Elemis, Elemis Biotec, ishga, Neom Organics and Natural Spa Factory products. Dining, including afternoon tea, are at the behest of Head Chef Michael Noonan who has enjoyed an illustrious career including a stint at the Sydney Opera House - it's definitely worth experiencing.