Sometimes you just need to escape – escape the daily grind, being in ‘mum mode’, the routine. We all need a little pause and reset and the haven of Ragdale Hall is the perfect location to not just enjoy some ‘me time’ but indulge and maximise the opportunity.
Ragdale Hall is one of the UK’s finest and largest spa retreats. Welcoming day guests looking for a pamper, or if time allows, a residential stay can span as long as you wish.
Located just outside the Leicestershire village of Melton Mowbray (yes, of pork pie fame!), the spa lies amidst the idyllic, green countryside.
Upon arrival, it’s the opportunity to truly relax. Shed your slacks and pop on a fluffy robe and slippers before taking in all the delights of the retreat.
The rooms at Ragdale are beautifully set out with lots of space and all the mod cons you need. However, in saying that, they are most definitely one of the least frequented areas as there’s so much to see, do and experience that residing in the charming room just doesn’t feature high on the list!
With relaxation at the heart of spa, one of the most popular activities is the Thermal Spa. Featuring 10 different experience zones, it’s an adventure for adults with exploration as you move through the rooms that all aim to enlighten different senses and target different areas of the body. We loved the Candle Pool, a serene relaxation space that helps to clear the mind; whilst the humidity of the Colourflow Cave helps to relax the muscles and detoxify the body.
One of the newest additions to Ragdale’s offering is the Rooftop Infinity Pool. There’s something special about lying back in a heated pool contrasting with the cool air around you. While soaking in the rolling countryside views at dusk, it’s magical to watch the evening lights blur into the mist for an enchanted experience. And if that ever can become too much, grab a towel and unwind in a hanging chair in the new rooftop lounge featuring fantastic floor to ceiling views.
If you’re after a treatment, there’s no shortage of expert therapists and treatment rooms on hand. From full body massages to holistic therapies to beauty fixes, with 50 treatment rooms there’s something for everyone. The luscious products emit a faint waft throughout the spa that shouts ‘spa scent’ and immediately puts you at ease. Following each treatment, the therapist provides a prescription of recommended products that you can purchase from the onsite store, a little bit of try before you buy if the mood takes you!
You will also encounter lots of ‘hidden’ spaces. Those that may not be the ‘go to’ places when you scan the map, yet once you stumble upon these small secrets they definitely feature high on the must-visit return list. For us, this is The Retreat. A room filled with chairs, chaise-longs, and beds with cosy blankets and vistas out to the rolling hills. Tucked away in the back corner of Ragale Hall, it is a haven of calm and silence making it the place to go to dip into that book you can’t put down or to absorb an environment that helps to clear the mind.
For the more adventurous that want to get up and go, there’s a full class timetable with popular classes such as zumba and spin available, in addition to an impressive gym. Bikes are on hand for an outdoor cycle to explore the grounds and venture further afield with maps available to select your preferred distance and route.
For foodies, there’s plenty on offer. Breakfast welcomes a lazy affair as it’s delivered to your door with a tray adorned with your preferred pre-ordered items; while the highlight is the lunch buffet. Offering a wide range of tasty and freshly prepared salads, breads and hot dishes, it’s not all health-conscious fruit smoothies and bland veggie soups. Yes, there’s a range of healthy food items alongside freshly baked fish, wholesome home-style meals and some indulgent treats – you have to try the lemon posset!
Dinner in the dining hall is again as relaxed as you want it to be with robes optional. The attentive staff cater to your every whim with a delicious three-course menu before it’s time to hit the brand new Twilight Bar for a sumptuous cocktail!
Need to Know…
Several packages provide a mix ‘n’ match of experiences to help provide the best setup for your stay. A two-night midweek break starts from £394 per person including all meals, inclusive treatments and use of facilities, complimentary robe y and Ragdale Hall flip flops. A two-night weekend break starts from £460 per person. Spa Day packages range from £69 – £280. For more information and to book, visit www.ragdalehall.co.uk
