Tranquil Tunbridge Wells Spa Hotel

It's always good to find a relaxing getaway with the option of a spot of pampering on the side, rather than the intense urban spa experience. Karen O'Grady checks in at The Tunbridge Wells Spa Hotel, set in 14 acres of picturesque grounds, and enjoys a slice of tranquility.

Friendly atmosphere
Overlooking the historic spa town of Royal Tunbridge Wells, the Spa Hotel looks picture perfect as I arrive after traveling for just 50 minutes by car from London. I'm booked in for an overnight stay and am amazed at how quickly the busy roads and built up towns have been left behind to be replaced by beautiful Georgian buildings and scenic country views. I'm greeted at reception by friendly staff, and quickly realise that the relaxed atmosphere and welcoming feel of the hotel is one of the major attractions. The staff have smiles for everyone, and service is attentive yet unhurried, making it easy to unwind and enjoy the break from frenzied London life.

Exploring the grounds
Visiting the hotel in January, there is a definite chill the air, so wrapped up warm, I ventured into the spectacular hotel gardens to explore. On the afternoon of my stay, a wedding reception was taking place. The happy couple were making the most of the beautiful setting with photographs being taken next to one of the three spring water lakes. The gardens are vast, and ideal for a leisurely stroll, or perhaps in warmer climes, taking in the surroundings while relaxing on one of the many well-positioned benches. The air has a fresh, clean smell, and local wildlife is easy to spot with magpies and squirrels appearing every so often on the lawn. For those with energy to expend, there is a floodlit tennis court, a golf course and a half-mile jogging trail.

Room to relax
In keeping with the understated elegance of the mansion, rooms and suites at The Spa hotel are comfortable and spacious, with a blend of modern and traditional décor. Designed with relaxation in the mind, the bed is large and soft and there is a seating area for two with comfy looking armchairs. A state of the art flat screen tv is positioned unobtrusively on the wall, and luxurious, heavy drapes cover the windows, giving the room a warm, welcoming feel. The bathroom is sleek and stylish with an over-sized bath and chrome fittings, including a mirror with built-in lighting - perfect for getting ready. All rooms include a hairdryer, trouser press and tea making facilites and of course a phone; essential for calling room service when in complete relaxation mode!

To the Spa
The Spa is easy to access from within the hotel and offers an extensive range of beauty treatments, along with spa day experiences that can be tailor-made to suit individual needs. The spa itself is fairly small, with a gym, steam room, sauna and pool, which is due for a refurbishment. You won't find many of the extras found in larger spas, such as loungers by the pool, rain showers or jacuzzis, but what makes the spa appealing are the affordable yet effective treatments. I had booked in for a radiance facial and full body massage and both were impeccable. The therapists are friendly and knowledgeable and I left the spa feeling revived in body and mind. Essential oils were used during the facial to soften the skin while providing deep moisturisation, while the massage eased away tension and left me feeling relaxed.

Dinner delight
The highlight of my stay was without doubt the superb evening meal. After pre-dinner drinks in the newly refurbished super-stylish champagne bar Zagatos, I made my way to the award-winning Chandelier Restaurant. As I had come to expect, the service was warm and friendly, with staff making every effort to ensure guests feel welcome. The restaurant is classically decorated, with crystal chandeliers and traditional style décor. Floor to ceiling windows complement the high ceiling and give the room a dramatic look.

The chef has created a modern English menu, with the emphasis on simple, uncomplicated flavours, accompanied by a carefully selected wine list. Delights from the menu include roasted local pheasant, rump steak with parmesan soufflé and vanilla pod crème brulee with homemade shortbread. The presentation of the food is elegant and inventive, while the great flavour shines through. My partner considered the restaurant to be the best he had dined in for some time, and I have to say I agree. With its high quality food and attentive staff the restaurant would make an ideal venue for a family celebration, or a treat for mum on Mother's Day.

Exploring Tunbridge Wells
After a hearty full English breakfast, which was cooked to perfection and brought to the table without delay, I rounded off my visit to Tunbridge Wells with a visit to the town centre. Without question, Tunbridge Wells is a pretty town; buildings are predominately Georgian, with what appears to be a ban on high rise building, allowing for scenic views, wherever you may be. After a spot of browsing in antique shops I headed to one of the many traditional style pubs to enjoy a relaxed drink and home cooked food. The unspoilt beauty of the surrounding countryside makes for an idyllic backdrop, and ensures that a visit to this picturesque town will leave you feeling revived and refreshed.

The Tunbridge Wells Spa Hotel, Mount Ephraim, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN4 8XJ. For more information and to make bookings, visit www.spahotel.co.uk or tel: 0044 (0) 1892 520331.

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