OCKENDEN MANOR

Nr Royal Tunbridge Wells

Submerge in the indoor-to-outdoor pool or enjoy a session in the Isopod: a salt-rich oatation tank that promises meditative calm.

It’s quite something to step into a 19th-century walled garden, surrounded by clipped lawns and sweet smelling foliage, and nd oneself face to face with an ultramodern spa. Clad in rust-coloured metal panels, the contemporary structure feels like something straight out of Grand Designs. But, somehow, situated alongside the former Elizabethan manor house that makes up the main hotel, it works. While the rooms and suites at Ockenden Manor adopt a classic countryside feel (a double starts at £189) the spa is pure modern luxe, with a choice of treatments designed to revitalise and restore. Submerge in the indoor-to-outdoor pool (the best way to admire the beautiful gardens) or enjoy a session in the Isopod: a salt-rich oatation tank that promises meditative calm. Of course, there are massages, facials, body therapies and manicures on o er too, plus spa packages, which include delicious a ernoon teas, or supper in the award-winning hotel restaurant.

Ockendon Manor is around 50 minutes from Royal Tunbridge Wells, the only spa town in the South East of England. Nowadays, there aren’t many spots to take a dip in the town itself, but those interested in history can visit the Chalybeate Spring to sample the iron-rich waters that our ancestors believed would cure even the worst hangover!

hshotels.co.uk/ockenden-manor

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Tradition meets luxury in the tranquil bedrooms; the Elizabethan façade is Grade II-listed and sits in stark contrast to the ultra-modern spa; indulge in a delicious Spa’fternoon Tea, plus a massage or facial; fancy a dip in the indoor spa bath? A session in the Isopod? Or a walk-through rainforest shower? The spa has it all.