Whether you’re planning a spa weekend, wellness break, or a mini escape with a friend or partner, the UK is home to many beautiful retreats offering exceptional sauna experiences without breaking the bank. These range from countryside spa sanctuaries to purpose‑built wellness retreats near London, each blending luxury, relaxation, and wellbeing.
1. Yorkshire Spa Retreat, situation in North Yorkshire
Website: https://www.yorkshire-spa-retreat.co.uk/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yspa_retreat/
Located in the scenic Yorkshire countryside, this spa retreat offers a Himalayan salt sauna, herbal steam room, and hydrotherapy pool, perfect for unwinding after countryside walks. Spa days typically start around £75 for three hours’ access, including use of all thermal facilities. Staying guests often receive discounts or complimentary spa access depending on the package. Yorkshire Spa Retreat+1
Top features:
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Himalayan salt sauna & steam room
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Hydrotherapy pool
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Wild natural swim pond
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Spa dome, herbal lounge & treatments
Best for: Nature lovers and spa‑day visitors seeking a tranquil Yorkshire escape.
2. Glass House Retreat, Essex
Website: https://www.glasshouseretreat.co.uk/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theglasshouseretreat/ (if available)
Just under an hour from London, Glass House Retreat is a purpose‑built wellness escape combining a spa, sauna facilities, and holistic activities. Sauna access comes as part of spa days (from ~£58.50 mid‑week) or longer wellness retreat packages. Glass House Retreat+1
Top features:
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Himalayan salt block & Finnish saunas
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Steam rooms & whirlpool/spa pools
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Fitness classes, yoga & outdoor wellness spaces
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Holistic treatments included in some packages
Best for: London residents or weekenders seeking a wellness reset with sauna rituals and spa activities.
3. Moddershall Oaks Country Spa Retreat, Staffordshire
Website: https://moddershalloaks.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moddershalloaks/ (if available)
A luxurious yet relatively affordable spa escape nestled in Staffordshire countryside, Moddershall Oaks features a traditional sauna as part of its full spa suite, alongside steam rooms, hydrotherapy pools, and heated loungers. Spa experiences can be booked as spa days or overnight stays (often from ~£95 or more). Moddershall Oaks+1
Top features:
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Indoor sauna & steam room
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Heated outdoor vitality pool
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Reflexology foot baths & hydrotherapy
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Relaxation lounges with fireplaces
Best for: Couples and wellness seekers who want a spa stay with sauna and countryside tranquillity.
4. Cottonmill Spa at Sopwell House, Hertfordshire
Website: https://sopwellhouse.co.uk/cottonmill-spa/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sopwellhouse/ (if available)
One of the UK’s most renowned spa facilities near St Albans, Cottonmill Spa offers multiple sauna experiences, including panoramic and organic saunas, alongside steam rooms, relaxation spaces, and vitality pools. Day spa packages vary widely, from ~£115 for afternoon access to more immersive day‑long experiences. Sopwell House+1
Top features:
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Panoramic & organic saunas
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Steam rooms & botanical steam
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Indoor & outdoor pools
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Spa break packages with meals and treatments
Best for: Those wanting a premium spa experience near London with multiple sauna options.
5. Nirvana Spa, Wokingham, Berkshire
Website: https://nirvanaspacollection.co.uk/spa/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nirvanaspacollection/ (if available)
The Nirvana Spa Collection is known for its classic spa experience built around water and wellbeing. The sauna sits alongside other thermal areas, pools, and relaxation zones, making it ideal for a day visit or spa stay focused on holistic rejuvenation. Nirvana Collection
Top features:
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Sauna within thermal spa facilities
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Multiple pools & relaxation spaces
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Massage and treatments available
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Spa days/overnight options
Best for: Spa lovers wanting a classic UK spa escape with sauna access.
Tips for Visiting
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Book spa days in advance: Many retreats have limited availability, especially on weekends.
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Look for mid‑week deals: Prices are often lower Monday–Thursday.
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Check packages closely: Some offer lunch or treatments included, which can make the overall experience better value!
