I go to this wonderful venue only once per month but have such a relaxing time I hope to increase…read moremy attendances. I like the steam room, good for my Asthma, I like all the pools, especially the one with the huge fish ready to impale someone (see picture) !! I chat to anyone who will chat back.... I spend three or four sessions in the steam room during the day, topping up my liquids with mango juice or water. I lie flat out in the main pool area and catch up on the news in the dailiies and monthlies available. At 1 pm I go for for lunch, usually the buffet which is superb. Then I have a kip and then after a shower I go back into the steam room for one last time. I go there early morning and leave about 4 pm, feeling good.

Sometimes I take for granted how relaxing this place really is, that is, until I walk outside and…read moreforget where we've left the car. That's partially to do with me going a bit nuts, but I always leave feeling rested, much lighter and incredibly happy. You don't get ultra modern neon-lit eternity pools, but a place where normal people (the ones that appreciate the nice environment that's been created there) can totally chill out. With a separate changing area for members and non-members, there's always a lot of space, secure lockers and hot showers on the way in. Once you get inside robes and sandals are encouraged as everything is quite spread out. My highlights include the giant tepidarium, containing 33 ceramic loungers heated to approx. 35 degrees to soothe the entire body. Each lounger has its own head phone socket, so you can bring your headphones and relax to your choice of music. There's also two large pool, a 49 seat spa pool with massage jets, a hydrotherapy flotation tank (with over 1.5 tonnes of salt in!) and an aromatherapy steam room. Additional things to consider are a fantastic cafe-style restaurant, where you can lounge about and eat. They do the best salads I've had anywhere outside of my home (I just like fresh ingredients and knowing what's gone into something). And the beauty salon does an exclusive range of body butters/scrubs/bath foams in ever changing varieties. I fell in love with the raspberry milkshake 'flavour' a few years ago, and I haven't been disappointed since. My last purchase was angel cake bath melt (a thick bubbling foam) and hot butter fudge shower gel. Oh my. There are three basic ways to go. One, buy a special experience pass (from £65 for entrance, a treatment and 'light supper', upwards). Second, a spa membership ranging from £9 a month for 3 visits a year up to £30 a month for 12 visits, all on top of a £99 joining fee. Or, a combined membership with the MASSIVE Pulse 8 gym across the way (literally a one minute from the spa). It's about £500 (sheesh) joining fee, then £80ish pounds for full come-any-time-you-like membership to gym and spa, then gets less as you strip away visiting at certain parts of the day. Just like most gyms and spas really. Either way, we joined at Christmas time a few years ago. It was on a special offer with no joining fee and one visit per month for £15. Bargain! It pops up at the same each year and often during Summer. I'd recommend holding out for that, because it's SO worth it.

Very good experience of sauna and spa. Nice service and great food. Massage is great. Feel great.read more

Went to the women's only Latvian witch ceremony Sauna thing! Was epic ! Hope to see more of these…read moreexperiences on the schedule !

Wickwoods is a beautiful country club just outside of Brighton. It's location is fantastic -…read morenestled in beautiful countryside just the other side of the Downs, yet less than 15 minutes from my house by car. The gym facilities are great. Admittedly, it's not the biggest gym in the world, but it has plenty of equipment to get a great workout including all the usual cardiac machines, weights machines, free weights (this area is very lady friendly, unlike other gyms I have experienced in the past), and TRX. They also have limited membership so the gym is never really crowded and I've certainly never had to wait for any of the machines. That said, my gym inductions weren't that successful, and for this Wickwoods loses a star. The first induction I had was good but the instructor was leaving the next day, and forgot to write down the program she had developed for me. The second time, the girl was incredibly moody as she had been booked by her colleague and didn't really have time. One very quick, abrupt tour of the gym later I had a program written down but a slightly sour taste in my mouth from the way I was treated. It's a shame as everyone else I have come across at the club has been really pleasant. As well as the gym, they have a studio room where they run numerous classes. The classes run by the gym instructors are better in my experience, the others can be a little 80's in style!! There is a beautiful pool, jacuzzi, sauna and steam room area that is just perfect to use after a hard workout in the gym. They also have inside and outside tennis courts, tennis coaching and tournaments - I may pick up my tennis racket again when the weather cheers up! I am yet to try the restaurant, although the carvery looks and smells fantastic on a Sunday - book in advance though, they never have room for us when we turn up after the gym. The bar area is a great place to stop for a coffee or something stronger - you have earned it by this stage of course! There are also treatment rooms which I plan to use in the very near future - there has to be some reward for all this hard work!

I used to work here..........a long time ago…read more.. But this is where I met my (current ;0) boyfriend and we still obviously have a certain connection to that hotel. Our anniversary was due. I arranged a whole "back-to-the-roots" trip, including the Nutfield Priory Hotel as well (obviously) . The reception staff was completely new and they didnt know us, but I was shocked by the attitude of the receptionist when we did the check-in. No: how are you, how was your trip? Nothing! That was strange, cause the reception team used to be much more attentive and friendlier. (Later on I found out why he was so grumpy, but think he should have kept his personal problems to himself..) Anyway, we went to our room, all rooms are refurbished and are stunning! I have always known that they were lovely, but this time I saw them with "different" eyes, the eyes of a guest. Later we met some old friends in the bar, had a couple of drinks ( it was tea time, so we actually could have ordered cream tea with the most delicious scones and sandwiches as well, but we wanted something stronger;0) and chit-chatted about this and that. But all the time I was sooooo looking forward to having dinner in the Cloisters Restaurant. We were invited by the head chef himself ( he might be a good chef, but he is as well a perfect friend of ours) and I was so excited to see, if he could cook my/his favorite/famous risotto! Seriously, this is the BEST risotto EVER!!!! It is not always on the menu, but if you will ask for it ( tell them: Alex says HI) he is more than happy to cook it! Dinner was delicious, the risotto tasted as good as I remembered and the wines we drank just rounded the whole dining experience up. They even put: "Happy Anniversary" on our dessert plates. Nice touch.. The after dinner drinks were served in the library, oh those cozy chairs..... Breakfast is good. I was (positively) surprised to find a full-veggie breakfast on the menu, since that has always been the one thing missing! (in my humble opinion) So yes, some things have changed, some things are still the same. But, apart from the receptionist who checked us in, the staff is friendly, professional ( as always ;0), welcoming and they will most definitely go that "extra" mile for you, to make their guests happy!

A special place with a unique charm…read more I made a group booking at the Nutfield Priory for my family to celebrate my sister's 50th birthday. I explained my exact requirements over the phone and found the reservation process efficient. However, it is a centralised reservation centre for Hand Picked Hotels, and the person didn't seem to be very familiar with the hotel I was booking for. Check-in was fine, though the staff, who were mainly Eastern European females, were very stern, with no warmth or welcoming banter. My sister had her wedding reception there over twenty years ago and we had spent several New Year's Eves there. We have a certain empathy with the place, but were made to feel almost unwelcome as we stood about in silence, waiting for keys. Our rooms weren't all ready, so we headed for the Grand Hall, and after having to go and search a waiter, which annoyed me more than the sullen receptionists, ordered bar food. It was all excellent, and plentiful and freshly prepared. I recommend the savoury afternoon tea, if jams and creams and chocolates aren't to your taste. Or get two of each, which is what we did. The hotel has a lovely hushed charm about it, and even though the grounds have diminished in size over the years, the setting is beautiful and lush. I booked us into a Classic double, Executive double and a Suite. The Classic (for me) was small, but with a good size bathroom, and more than enough space for a short stay. If you aren't planning on staying in your room much, then these cheaper rooms are perfectly fine. The room overlooked the car park and hotel entrance, so check if there are any functions planned. Wedding guests can be particularly noisey in the evenings. The Executive double (for my parents) was in the main old building. It was quite dark (damson walls and high up small windows). It had a nice bathroom and huge bed. But comparing it to the Classic, it wasn't really worth the extra expense. The Suite (for my sister, husband and 8 year old daughter) was HUGE. Enormous sleigh bed, massive tassled four-seater knoll, plush armchairs, more than enough wardrobes, giant HD TV, tiled double bathroom with two large sinks and shower and tub. I requested an additional bed for my niece, which was made up with the same quality bedding. The panoramic views over the Sussex Downs was truly spectacular. For a special occasion or special treat, the Suites are the rooms to book. The hotel claims to have a spa. This is actually a sports centre, open to the general public, located a short walk from the hotel. But having said that, it is well maintained, not overly busy (when we used it), and offers a much friendlier welcome than the hotel. I wouldn't recommend getting changed in your hotel room walking there in a robe though and I wouldn't recommend aiming for a solitary swim at 1pm on a Saturday during the school holidays. But with careful timing the spa can be lovely. Also, post spa refreshments are best had back at the hotel if you don't fancy mixing with the good people of Reigate. The Nutfield Priory is a special place, with a unique charm and atmosphere. I look forward to checking in again.

A great hotel, have stayed here before room was lovely. Breakfast was perfect. I use the spa and…read moregym regularly and it's always clean and well maintained.

Seems to have claimed the entry , and I have visited and noticed an extra member of staff. They…read moreoffer vouchers according to your budget too.

Oh my word, what a little hidden gem! If you are looking for a little escape with an experienced…read moretherapist this is the place. The facials are simply put, Amazing, I will soon be going back for my 4th facial and I cannot wait. My skin feels amazing. They are also very accommodating, when I wanted to add on a eyebrow wax and tint at the end of my treatment it was no trouble at all. They go out of their way to make your experience relaxing, and make you feel special. Could not recommend enough!!

Amazing I really had a great day afternoon tea was lovely. I actually really enjoyed going alone…read moreaswell. For your mental health maybe try to do things differently.

Best gym in the area. Super friend club and staff. New equipment, lovely pool, classes, jacuzzi,…read moresteam room, and sauna. Lovely location. Not a chain and it shows. Treat yourself.

I had never heard of The Cove Spa before, but after being given a voucher for my birthday, I…read moredecided to book myself in for a luxury pedicure. On entering the building, I was a little surprised. Most of the spas that I've been to in England have been bright, modern places that border on sterility, and the name makes me think of Maine or Cape Cod: nautical decor and seashells and lots of light and airy spaces. Instead, The Cove is a colourful, Indian-inspired place that is reminiscent of somewhere you might visit in Goa or Kerala. Peaceful Eastern music plays throughout the building, Asian artefacts and colour schemes dominate, and the overall effect is tranquil, comforting and welcoming. Rather than the reclining pedicure chairs with attached basins that I'm accustomed to, at The Cove you're seated on a banquette piled with cushions while you soak your feet in a wooden tub. It's very low-key and natural-feeling, unlike anything I've ever had done in England, and it made me feel sort of like I was on holiday. However, don't mistake low-key for low-quality - staff are well-trained and talented. Kayleigh, my pedicurist, described herself as "a perfectionist" and it shows in the job she did. My cuticles were perfectly trimmed, my nails were shaped well (or as well as they can be - years of ballet have left the toenails growing quite strangely), and everything was massaged, buffed and polished. The only bit we had some trouble with was the calluses on my heels - the combination of going barefoot year-round, and neglecting my foot care for the last 18 months, has left me with extremely thick skin that will probably require chemical peels to treat. However, my heels were considerably softer and smoother after my visit here than they've been in months. Overall I would say it's one of the best pedicures I've ever had. In addition to doing superb work, Kayleigh was both friendly and professional. She was happy to talk when I felt like it, but wasn't exceedingly chatty, which I appreciate more than I can state. As an introvert with a hectic lifestyle, I turn to spas and salons for relaxation. More often than not, I like peace and quiet when receiving a beauty treatment or massage, as it's one of the few times I actually sit down and do nothing. Until about five years ago, this peace and quiet was easy to find, but in recent years beauty therapists seem to have become much chattier, and I find the constant small talk overwhelming. Happily, I didn't have that issue at The Cove, and I left feeling chilled and rejuvenated. Five days after my treatment, I have no noticeable chips or other damage to the polish, which I'm quite happy about. Despite choosing to come here because I had a voucher, I actually forgot to use it, so I'll probably come back soon for a back massage. At £44, the luxury pedicure isn't cheap (particularly to a half-American girl used to US prices!), but it's not considerably more than other salons in St Albans. In addition, each month the spa runs a different offer, and this month (June 2015) the offer was on pedicures - buy four get one free, or buy six get two free, which saves quite a lot of money if you get your nails done regularly. Overall, I was very happy with my experience at The Cove Spa, and would absolutely return. Updated 17/12/2015 - On my second trip here, I'm still very happy with everything. Patricia is wonderful, and I have another lovely pedicure. I really must come and try the other services!

From the owner: The Cove Spa provides a vast range of Rituals & Packages, Holistic Therapies, Beauty and Cosmetic…read moreTreatments using world class products from the IIAA - International Institution of Anti Aging including ENVIRON, Jane Iredale and Advance Nutrition Programme in addition to CoolHerbals' products. We are known as a results driven skincare clinic, performing a number of anti-aging treatments inhouse.

After a hard week at work I decided to treat myself to a spa treatment at Mermaid Island. I was…read morelucky enough to find this place open on Sunday and was surprised to see that they are actually open daily from 10am to 8pm! I booked my appointment via Treatwell and chose the Pharmagel Intense Full Facial which included a shoulder and neck massage. As I walked in I was greeted by Antoinella who was friendly and sweet. My therapist was Leila who was very kind and made me feel relaxed immediately. She noticed the tension in my upper back and was generous enough to use hot stones which felt amazing! The facial was great, skin feels fresh and rejuvenated. They are courteous and welcoming here, offering refreshments regularly. I highly recommend this place and will definitely come back!

I was looking for a waxing place near me, and I am so happy that I found mermaid island! The people…read morethat work there are so friendly, welcoming, and so professional! It was most definitely the best waxing experience I have ever had. I left a very happy and satisfied customer, would highly recommend!

I was treated for acne, scarring and uneven skin tone. I had tried other products before but…read morenothing seemed to work. What Dr Berry prescribed to me was amazing, worked straight away and im very happy. I didn't think I would see results so quickly. Customer service is excellent too.So thank you very much!

From the owner: We are a cosmetic skin clinic based in Windsor and Cardiff. We are situated at the leading private…read moreconsulting rooms, Alma Medica in Windsor (near London), and Cyncoed Consulting Rooms in Cardiff, Wales. Our consultations are in a relaxed and profession environment at our private locations. For further peace of mind, we have CQC (Care Quality Commission) registration at our Windsor clinic; and Health Inspectorate Wales registration at our Cardiff clinic. At The Wellfield Skin Clinic we provide a wide range of facial aesthetic and cosmetic treatments including treatment of lines and wrinkles with muscle relaxants and Dermal Fillers. Injectable treatments are always administered by a fully qualified, and GMC registered