Best friend

After a tough few months, beauty director Rosie Green and her friend needed a spa break that felt cosseting, rather than punitive. They found treatments, but also delicious food and cocktails, at Heckfield Place.

First impressions City stress melts away as you trundle up the long drive, drinking in the gorgeous grounds of this imposing Georgian house. When you arrive at the hotel, staff greet you with a welcome that feels as genuine as it is enthusiastic. Inside, the decor is super chic in that modern Soho House hotel type way. The food is first rate (overseen by Skye Gyngell) and the jewel box bar is a thing of pure beauty.

And… relax The Little Bothy

Spa is a cosy space that feels both protective and serene. There are only five treatment rooms and one relaxation room, so think small and perfectly formed rather than an all-singing, alldancing, full-service spa. The therapists are top-notch, thoughtful and genuinely caring. They speak in the kind of hushed, reassuring tones that have a profound, cortisol-lowering effect. If you fancy exercising there are also Pilates and yoga classes, with instructors hailing from hip wellness company, Bodyism.

The treatments The spa uses Wildsmith Skin, a natural skincare range that looks as good as it feels and smells. My body massage was deeply relaxing with the room the perfect temperature, and the therapist applying just the right amount of pressure. Afterwards I was served tea, made with ingredients from the garden.

How to book Call 0118 932 6868 or visit heckfieldplace.com. Rooms start at £350, including breakfast.

Spa treatments start from £80. w&h