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Whatever your budget or needs you can find the spa experience to suit you in ELLE's guide. Search by price or region to see the spas we recommend...

Spa guides

C–Side Spa

Cowley Manor
Cowley
Near Cheltenham
Gloucestershire
GL53 9NL
01242 870902

Day Package Price: £185
Grooming From: £15
Treatments From: £80

Visit website

In the heart of the Cotswolds countryside sits Cowley Manor Hotel and Spa, an ultra modern and minimal building that makes for a striking contrast set down amongst the surrounding woodlands. Tall fir trees and lawns encircle the spa, making it a peaceful - almost hidden - beauty oasis. Even the journey to Cowley helps to set the scene for the ultimate relaxing day - as by train or by car - the approach is through beautiful, lush countryside that stretches as far as the eye can see.

In the past the spa was open to hotel guests only, but recently Cowley has opened its doors as a day-spa, and is a great way to treat yourself or unwind before a big event.

With so much outside space, it’s best enjoyed in the warmer months of the year when you can easily while away the hours around the heated, outdoor pool and enjoy the tranquillity of the surrounding countryside (if you’re a city dweller this kind of outdoor silence will be music to your ears). When it’s colder, there’s also an indoor, slate lined pool, faced on two sides by floor to ceiling windows that allow you to enjoy the woodland views as you swim.

For the perfect day-spa visit, arrive in the morning and make use of the well equipped gym (if you’re that way inclined of course), warm down in either of the heated pools and relax in the steam room and sauna before a cold shower. Now you can enjoy the fabulous lunch menu without feeling too much guilt (meals are healthy, light and delicious). In the afternoon two hour-long treatments, served back to back are unbeatable. All treatments are unique to Cowley and have been created exclusively for the spa by renowned aromatherapist Michelle Roques O’Neill. Her philosophy is focused on holistic well- being and all treatments work with the body as a whole to maximise balance and complete well being. ELLE’s favourites are the Cascade facial (£80) and the C-Charge massage (£88). The massage is incredible and the facial super-nourishing – our sin was left seriously glowing and plumped for days.

Best for: Facials, well-being and guaranteed peace and tranquillity