When you think of top destinations for a luxurious spa visit, Burnley might not be the first location to spring to mind.
Best known for its football club – whose supporters include none other than Snoop Dogg and King Charles III – and as the birthplace of legendary actor Sir Ian McKellen, Burnley doesn’t necessarily summon thoughts of spa serenity. But the Woodland Spa confounds any preconceptions. Situated in the stunning Lancashire countryside outside of the thriving market town, it’s a gem of the North West.
The spa recently underwent a £16m renovation, and while it now bills itself as the UK’s largest luxury spa destination, I still found it to be intimate and tranquil despite its size. And as soon as you step foot into the spa, you feel looked after. The lovely staff greet you with a smile – and a map to help you navigate your way round as the facilities are spread over two floors.
Set within 100 acres of gorgeous Lancashire countryside, The Woodland Spa has a dizzying array of facilities to help you float away on a tide of relaxation. There are alfresco hot tubs, hydrotherapy pools, a sauna, steam room, saunariums (less intense heat and outside with amazing views), a salt steam, Roman foot baths, a rasul mud chamber and an ice fountain to follow any heat experience. It also has the UK’s first ice lounge, a really calming space playing birdsong – it transports you to a winter forest. Narnia eat your heart out.
The huge range of different facilities mean none become crowded and you’re left to enjoy them at your own pace without ever feeling your space encroached.
The rooftop is stunning, with views over the surrounding rolling hills, woodland and farmland, and features a gorgeous, heated infinity pool, plus a bar which serves pizza and snacks.
There’s also a mezzanine between the ground floor and the rooftop which has really comfortable round beds which are great for lounging on or reading a book.
My highlight, though, was the serenity pool with dimly lit mood lighting which was a super relaxing space.
The spa’s signature treatment in the sumptuous treatment rooms is the Paradise Escape, featuring an aromatic foot ritual, full body exfoliation and massage with essential oils, plus a warm hand and foot mask. Or you can plump for a Neom De-Stress massage or a Medik8 Platinum facial. The choice is almost as dizzying as the spa’s facilities.
The scenic backdrop to The Woodland Spa is the imposing Pendle Hill, famed for its witches who were tried and executed for sorcery in 1612. It’s safe to say that The Woodland Spa certainly cast its spell on me.
Behiye Hassan is the managing editor of Meet The Leader. She also writes for The Luxury Spa Edit and specialises in small business, entrepreneurs, luxury and wellbeing
