The best day spas

The knowledge
: This is a full-scale destination spa in a country house complete with woods and lake. Favoured by the Beckhams and Eastenders cast members, the atmosphere is down-to-earth luxury.

Why come here?
For a taste of the health farm experience. To belt up and down a pool long enough for serious laps and bubble in one of the country's best hydrotherapy zones.

Star treatments:
Thalassotherapy (£19.95) gives you 25 minutes of super-jacuzzi, marine water massage under powerful overhead jets and seething underwater beds. The Serail Mud Experience (£25) - in a hammam, or traditional Arabic tiled steam room sanctuary - is great slapstick fun and hugely popular with hen parties.

The cost:
Pretty good value. Day packages cost from £66.95 and include basic treatments like a facial, massage and manicure. Other treatments like those above are extra, but worth it. Plus, you have unlimited access to the pool, gym, exercise and relaxation classes - and a delicious buffet lunch. There's also a Spa Cafe - but watch out - those cappuccinos can rack up the bill.