Norton Park Spa

Take a holiday from reality at this city-side retreat

Some of the UK’s most popular spas are located just outside major cities – and there is a good reason for that. There are times when you need to just get away from it all, without actually, you know, getting away.

As soon as you arrive in Norton Park Spa, you know you can relax. Although it’s situated just outside the city of Winchester, it’s surrounded by 54 acres of pristine (and private) countryside, which make you feel as though you are far from home.

The 500-year-old manor house is full of old fashioned charm, but ever since it was acquired by the QHotels group it has undergone a major modernisation.

The spa boasts under-floor heating, a brand new health club, eight private treatment rooms, an indoor swimming pool, a sauna, a steam room and a dedicated spa lounge, plus an exclusive selection of ESPA facials and body treatments.

ESPA’s famous aromatherapy massages will leave you feeling relaxed and rebalanced, while the spa offers a range of facial treatments for every skincare concern. Try the Lift & Firm Eye Treatment to ward off the first signs of ageing, or the De-Sensitiser Facial, which calms irritated and red skin.

The Men’s Age Rebel Facial includes a brush cleanse and an enzyme peel, to leave you looking like you’ve had a good night sleep, even after a week of sleepless nights.

After your Norton Park spa session, schedule in a couple of hours to wander round the grounds and take in the sights and sounds of the Winchester countryside, before heading back into the city and back to reality.

• TREAT YOURSELF:  to the Invigorating Foot Treatment. An affordable and effective cure for aching feet, which is best enjoyed after a long walk across the Park grounds.

• PERFECT FOR:  a half-day holiday after a busy week at work.