Here are two things that are indisputably true: 2020 was tough, and you deserve a break. As we venture further into 2021, the annual cries of ‘new year, new me’ are beginning to fade, and the determined conviction (with which you declared you would absolutely- without–a–doubt actually use that gym membership this year) is waning under the strain of what seemed like a hundred days of January. However, if the trials and tribulations of 2020 have taught us anything, it is that investing in your health and wellbeing is so much more than a trend, it has to be. This list of the top 5 wellness retreats, within a three hour drive of London, proves that restoration and recovery can be found close to city life and, whether you’re interested in yoga and meditation, nutrition or are simply looking for some peace and quiet, you will find solace and some deeply deserved rest.

Heckfield Place, Hampshire

The epitome of elegance and grace, Heckfield Place is the vanguard of luxury retreats. Standing proud amongst over four hundred acres of lakes, woodland, and walled gardens, Heckfield House is a vision of Georgian grandeur, tastefully brought into the modern day with interior design that exudes both warmth and luxury. A commitment to building a self-sustaining relationship with nature really forms the soul of Heckfield Place, the onsite Home Farm and Market Garden form a large proportion of the seasonally–conscious cuisine served at Heckfield Place, this is truly a luxury retreat that nourishes from the inside out. The Little Bothy Spa is an oasis of calm where the health and wellbeing of guests is nurtured through a variety of bespoke treatments. From personal training, yoga and meditation, to more traditional spa treatments, Heckfield Place offers a plethora of immersive, luxury experiences that will be sure to rejuvenate mind, body and soul. 

The Clover Mill, Worcestershire

Set in idyllic countryside, this seventeenth century mill plays host to luxury retreats that seek to recenter the mind through tailored treatment programs. Rooted in the Ayurvedic principles of nourishing, food, therapeutic massage and yogic exercise, The Clover Mill leaves guests feeling refreshed; physically, emotionally and spiritually. As well as several workshops with guest facilitators, The Clover Mill offers two retreat programpathways: Ayurveda and Yoga, and Rest and Digest Healthy Gut Retreat. Guests can choose a more spiritually focused experience designed to instil a sense of calm and mental clarity, or they can seek a more inwardly focused healing experience tailored toward those with specific health concerns. The Clover Mill almost seems to exist in another realm, a fairy-tale like setting in which one can truly disconnect with life’s pressures and rediscover a sense of self.

Inhabit London, Paddington

We understand, life is busy. As idyllic as it may seem, a weekend escape to the country to truly switch off from the world just may not be feasible, however, that does not mean that a luxury retreat is out of the question. Enter, Inhabit London. Located in the heart of the capital, Inhabit London brings relaxation and healing to you.At the forefront of an evolving culture of urban wellness hotels, Inhabit London offers guests short stays and one–day retreats rooted in the practices of Yoga, mindfulness and a nutritional consciousness promoted in the wholesome, healthy cuisine sourced from local suppliers. Regular workshops and daily itineraries have the health and wellbeing of guests at their heart, featuring a variety of yoga practices and restoring nature walks Inhabit London brings a sense of calm to the beating heart of thriving London. From the stylish minimalism of the décor to the nourishing menus, Inhabit London fosters a real sense of clarity and focus, truly a sanctuary in the city.

Simply Healing, West Sussex

Those who seek to delve deeper into the science of healing will find a soul-nourishing haven at the Simply Healing Detox Retreat in West Sussex. Simply Healing is an exclusive, residential, holistic retreat specialising in detox treatments for health and wellbeing. This calming oasis offers tailor–made detox packages as well as pre-designed programmes that rid both body and mind of negativity and toxins, using locally sourced andfreshly harvested fruits and vegetables, just what the doctor ordered. This cleansing retreat boasts an extensive repertoire of spa treatments as well as counselling and emotional healing, allowing for a spiritually enriching experience that benefits guests long after checking out. Rooted in natural healing and herbalist practices Simply Healing offers a unique experience and fresh approach to health and wellbeing.

Stede Court Private Fitness Retreat, Kent 

Stede Court hosts its private fitness retreat in its namesake seventeenth century property, a stunning Jacobeanhouse that welcomes small groups of guests with authenticity and charm. Seven acres of surrounding gardens, fields, swimming ponds and a luxury outdoor sauna allows guests to reconnect with nature whilst benefitting from personal and small group training. Stede Court focuses on bespoke escapes tailor made to satisfy the needs of each guest. Itineraries can range in content from Yoga and personal fitness training to massage andwine tasting, it’s all about balance, right? The retreat’s founder and director, Kathryn Freeland, has been deemed ‘the world’s most sought-after trainer’ having spent over twenty years training celebrity clients. In such expert hands, guests are sure to receive a truly a-list experience.

Whether it’s detox treatments or wine tasting, there is no right way to unwind. Our Top 5 wellness retreats offer healing and restorative experiences, guaranteed to suit every lifestyle. Book now to find your own sanctuary, just a stone’s throw from the city.