Review of The Spa at Homewood Park, Bath

The Spa at Homewood Park, Bath – 4 bubbles

Homewood Park is an English country house, just six miles from Bath. This luxury Georgian retreat is home to a tranquil spa, luxury accommodation and award-winning cuisine in the Lime Restaurant. The modern spa boasts a fantastic indoor hydrotherapy pool and outdoor swimming pool, with treatments from [ comfort zone ]. We loved Homewood's perfect mix of contemporary design and country comfort.

First impressions?

How did they welcome you?

What happens next?

Which treatments did you have?

What were the treatments like?

How did you feel afterwards?

What happens afterwards?

What else could you have?

Any special features?

Who do you think would like it?

Why did you give the spa this rating?

Would you go again?

First impressions?

This 19th century country house is set in outstanding parkland and award-winning gardens (7 times "Bath in Bloom" winners) with gorgeous views over the stunning Limpley Stoke Valley. As I pulled into the driveway I noticed the hotel's beautiful ivy-clad exterior. In the hotel's large entrance hall were couples sitting on comfy sofas, reading the Sunday papers in front of a roaring log-fire. Other guests were tucking into afternoon tea and scones.

How did they welcome you?

At the reception desk, a smiling member of staff greeted me and efficiently checked me in. An equally helpful and friendly porter then escorted me up to my room.

What happens next?

My room was a junior suite at the top of the house. The room was bright, spacious and airy. The décor was sophisticated and contemporary, but still had a comfortable feel. The walls were covered by stunning lime-green wallpaper with a bold white design; the fabrics were rich silks and velvets.

The room was furnished with a particularly comfy bed, and had a large flat-screen TV with a good selection of channels. The decadent bathroom had a free-standing roll-top bath with a sky light above, and a large walk-in shower. The view over the Victorian gardens to the rear of the house was glorious.

The house has a wonderfully calming atmosphere. The successful combination of contemporary design and classic, country chic, gives it charm and warmth. The hotel's drawing room, study and bar are elegant, stylish rooms, perfect for pre-dinner drinks. In the winter, you can relax on a sofa in front of an open log fire. When the weather permits, you can enjoy the grand terraces overlooking the idyllic gardens.

The Lime Restaurant enjoys a reputation as one of Bath's finest restaurants. It has been awarded three AA rosettes and has been voted Country Restaurant of the Year in the Good Food Guide. The restaurant serves imaginative English cuisine with a delicate French twist. The menus are seasonal and many ingredients are locally sourced (some from Homewood’s own garden).

The à la carte menu offered such delights as ham hock and herb terrine, butternut squash risotto, foie gras mousse, hand-caught sautéed scallops, and beef wellington. Each course was beautifully presented and a feast of flavours. My dishes were accompanied by outstanding wine and were served by attentive, discreet staff.

That evening, I had a fantastic sleep. In the morning I enjoyed a long shower and a hearty breakfast before venturing out to the luxury spa.

The spa is in a separate building, through the walled gardens at the back of the hotel. I passed the outdoor pool, complete with its own loungers and relaxation pods. The spa is housed in a strikingly modern building with floor-to-ceiling windows at the front. I entered and paused to admire the huge hydrotherapy pool. I could see the Champagne nail bar, the sauna and steam room, and a number of elegant loungers, but I couldn't see an obvious route to a changing area. I waited at the entrance for a while before an obviously busy, but still smiling, therapist rushed over and greeted me. She explained that she was running a little late, but that I would be her last appointment so my treatment wouldn't be rushed.

The changing rooms have a wall of lockers, spacious showers and a well-lit vanity area. The room was warm and cosy, with plenty of space. Every corner was spotless. I changed and showered, then put on the soft white robe I had found in my locker.

I had been looking forward to relaxing in the hydrotherapy pool since I set eyes on it, and I wasn’t disappointed. The pool has a number of well-spaced, strategically placed jets, the submerged lounger being my favourite. I enjoyed leaning over the edge, looking at the gardens outside.

The thermal suite consists of a steam room and sauna. The steam room was dimly lit, with twinkling lights in the ceiling. The traditional sauna smelt of birch or cedar wood.

I was relaxing on one of the poolside loungers when Lily, my therapist, finally appeared. She apologised again and led me through to one of the two treatment rooms. The room was serene, with dim ceiling lights, dark wooden floors and cabinets, a generously sized treatment-bed, and a wonderful smell of burning oils and candles.

Which treatments did you have?

The Tranquillity Body Massage (£60 for 60 minutes) using [ comfort zone ] products.

What were the treatments like?

Before my treatment began, Lily explained that she would be using a blend of soothing [ comfort zone ] oils. We discussed the type of massage I would most appreciate, the areas for her to concentrate on, and the amount of pressure she should use.

My swimsuit was still pretty damp, so Lily suggested I remove it, and offered me paper panties to change into. She left the room while I changed and made myself comfortable on the treatment couch. When Lily returned, she dimmed the lights and turned up the gentle music.

The aim of my tailored massage was to soothe, calm tension and relieve stress. Lily started work on my back using a blend of vanilla and mimosa oils. She started gently with large circular arcs, working the oil into my skin. Lily paid particular attention to my shoulders, where she said I was carrying a lot of tension. When massaging the rest of my back, she used long strokes and made good use of her strength. The rhythm, her firm motion and the comforting aroma made me feel very relaxed. All too soon the massage was over.

How did you feel afterwards?

I felt a little light-headed, but in a good way! The overall result was pretty impressive, as my entire body felt relaxed. As a bonus, my skin felt amazing and smelt delicious.

What happens afterwards?

Lily left the room while I slowly emerged from my trance-like state and dressed. She returned with a long glass of iced water and explained that I should continue to drink plenty of water throughout the remainder of the day.

I picked up a magazine and found myself a lounger with a fabulous view of the garden and swimming pool. I got comfy and before I had even opened the magazine, I fell fast asleep.

What else could you have?

The Spa at Homewood Park's treatment menu is very comprehensive. You can enjoy wraps, facials, massages, scrubs and manicures and pedicures. Also available are a range of treatments especially for men, pregnancy-friendly treatments, waxing and a good range of finishing touches.

Any special features?

The stunning garden suites. They provide a real sense of privacy and luxury.

Who do you think would like it?

Homewood Park is a serene country retreat. I thoroughly enjoyed my time on my own, but would love to have been joined by my daughter, mother or a partner for a romantic getaway.

Why did you give the spa this rating?

We gave The Spa at Homewood Park 4 bubbles. The hotel and spa both ooze elegance, luxury and comfort. The spa isn't huge, but the facilities are well-presented and enjoyable – the hydrotherapy pool in particular. I couldn't fault the lavish accommodation and the stunning surroundings. Lime Restaurant is outstanding, too, and a destination in its own right.

When I visited, The Spa at Homewood Park had only recently opened. My spa day wasn't as smoothly timed as it could have been, which may have been an issue if I had made other plans. And I did feel a little bit lost at times when I was left in the spa all alone. Another bubble could be gained next time, if this is addressed.

See more on how we rate the spas