Surrey’s long association as an escape to the country for London residents has left it with a legacy of relaxing getaways. Tucked away in the rolling countryside and charming market towns of the county, behind wrought iron gates or down winding rural lanes, are some of the most exceptional spa hotels within easy reach of the city.
Some are steeped in history, where Victorian and Gothic architecture merge with 21st-century wellness routines and practices, offering a bespoke blend between character and comfort. Whether seeking the quiet of charming woodland, the sanguine calm of a riverside escape, or a resort getaway with a raft of activities fit for an entire family, Surrey’s finest spa hotels have a rich variety of experiences for rest and relaxation, in resplendent settings.
Pennyhill Park Hotel & Spa
Less a traditional country house hotel and closer akin to a sprawling estate – set across 120 acres of private parkland on the edge of Bagshot – Pennyhill Park was originally a grand private residence dating back to the 19th century. The original period features remain in the reception and lounge areas, with dark wood panelling, sweeping staircases and open fireplaces that are undeniably striking. Many of the bedrooms and suites boast marble bathrooms and private balconies overlooking the lawns or woodlands of the estate. Whilst the Michelin star restaurant, The Latymer, attracts plenty of praise and the setting is marvellous, the main draw to Pennhyll Park is of course, the remarkable spa.
With a selection of eight pools to relax in, including a vast indoor ballroom pool with underwater music, outdoor hydrotherapy pools and Canadian hot tubs built on a thermal terrace, guests have more than enough options to relax and unwind. In addition to herbal saunas, aroma steam rooms and a frosty igloo, treatments range from Natura Bissé facials to signature full-body massages and bespoke pregnancy therapies. One of the signature highlights from the treatment menu is the Sleep Retreat, designed to reset the body clock and relieve tension over a course of treatments, which all but guarantees improved sleep and rejuvenation.
Beaverbrook
Once the home of newspaper mogul Lord Beaverbrook, this Grade II-listed mansion sits amid the rolling hills of the Surrey countryside close to Leatherhead. The property boasts a definitive aura from its rich history of entertaining both prominent politicians and celebrities, with former guests including the likes of Winston Churchill and Elizabeth Taylor. Today, its transformation into a spa retreat is complete with the addition of the Coach House Spa, set in a beautifully converted building inspired by the work of Charles Rennie Mackintosh.
Beaverbrook’s spa focuses on holistic therapies with an emphasis on seasonal well-being. The thermal suite includes a crystal steam room, salt sauna, and hot-and-cold hydrotherapy pools. Outside, a heated swimming pool is framed by manicured flower borders and mature trees, offering guests a natural, calm space to swim. Treatments at the spa range from Japanese facial rituals to advanced naturopath consultations, all assisted with natural products and remedies. The more unique offerings include sound vibration therapies and forest bathing sessions within the hotel’s private woodland, for those looking for a fully immersive spa break in nature.
Foxhills
Foxhills began life as a 19th-century manor house, but now serves as a comprehensive country club and spa resort, set within 400 acres of the rolling Surrey countryside. The main building retains some of its original character, with high ceilings, large sash windows and ornate fireplaces, contrasting with the more sleek, purpose-built lodges and apartments designed for longer family stays or corporate retreats scattered around the manor. With a range of facilities that boast tennis courts and cycle centres, it's a perfect destination for families, and Foxhills spa does not come up short in offering guests a more relaxing break.
An indoor pool with powerful hydrotherapy jets sits alongside a pleasingly hot outdoor vitality pool in a Zen-style garden. The thermal suite includes a Finnish sauna, steam room and ice fountain, offering the classic combination of hot and cold rejuvenation techniques. Signature treatments use Elemis products, from Pro-Collagen facials to muscle-melting deep tissue massages. For couples, the Rasul Mud Experience offers a fun and detoxifying ritual in a private steam chamber that’s a cut above the average mudding option at most spas. Uniquely, Foxhills leans into its family-friendly approach by offering junior spa treatments to ensure that no one misses out on the chance to relax and rejuvenate during a stay at the resort.
Nutfield Priory
Built in the late 19th century in a neo-Gothic style that feels ripped from the pages of a period novel, this grand property was originally a private mansion before being converted into a hotel. Perched on top of hills overlooking the Surrey-Sussex border, Nutfield Priory has garnered a reputation for one of the most comprehensive rest and relaxation spots in the south of England. The spa is housed in an annex to the main hotel, offering a bright and bold contrast to the brooding manor house.
A light-filled indoor pool forms the centrepiece of the facilities, flanked by a sauna, steam room and spacious fitness suite that offers a fine blend between relaxation and exercise. Treatments use both Elemis and Comfort Zone products, offering guests a neat choice of facials, massages and scrubs that can be easily tailored to individual needs. A popular option is the Serenity Ritual, a multi-stage treatment combining skin exfoliation with a body wrap, followed by a deep hydration massage. Nutfield takes great pride in its routines and rituals that rejuvenate guests and ensure they keep returning for the same consistent wellness experience.
Brooklands Hotel & Spa
Located on the historic site of the Brooklands motor racing circuit in Weybridge, the exterior of this hotel and spa is boldly modern, all glass and steel with a nod to the tight lines of racing cars that used to charge around the circuit. Inside, the theme continues with subtle racing motifs in the furnishings and artwork, whilst the spacious yet minimalistic rooms come with balconies that overlook Mercedes-Benz World and the old racing circuit, keeping the automotive spirit at the heart of this hotel.
The BSpa at Brooklands is modern and stylish, with standout features such as the Sunlight Therapy Room offering guests the benefits of simulated natural light, while the thermal suite includes sauna, steam and an aromatic shower experience. Treatments are provided using Caudalie products and range from firming facials to bespoke muscle-release massages. The unique appeal of the racing circuit and its impact on the spa and hotel’s design and atmosphere are key selling points for a getaway here, with the option to hop into the outdoor hot tub overlooking the test track after taking a spin – hard to resist.
The Runnymede on Thames
One of the most beautiful hotels in the country, preciously perched directly on the banks of the River Thames in Egham, The Runnymede offers the sort of sweeping grandeur amidst a peaceful riverside setting that has seen it rank among the most popular retreats within easy reach of London. Many rooms boast splendid river views and the outdoor terrace is perfect for lounging during long English summers, overlooking passing boats and birds bobbing along with the gentle flow of the river. The setting is undeniably relaxing, which serves to aid the compact yet well-established spa.
Offering an indoor pool, whirlpool bath, infrared cabin, sauna and steam room, the spa comes with all the accolades to ensure guests are suitably relaxed, alongside a comprehensive list of treatments focusing on body wraps, nourishing facials and tension-relieving massages. Popular special packages available for both day visitors and overnight guests include the “Twilight Spa”, which allows visitors to enjoy an evening of relaxation as the sun sets, followed by dinner in the hotel’s riverside restaurant. Guests will enjoy chilling by the river or strolling through the well-groomed grounds of the property almost as much as relaxing in the spa facilities themselves.
