A Guide to The Best Spas with Massages

Massage is one of the most popular spa treatments, offering you the chance to really unwind as a trained therapist soothes away your stresses and relaxes your muscles. Whether you choose a lighter back, neck and shoulders spa massage, or a more robust deep-tissue massage, you’re sure to leave feeling relaxed, refreshed and like a whole new you!

Do all spa packages include massages?

Many of our great spa break and spa day deals include a massage as an inclusive or optional treatment. Packages are available for single spa-goers, couples and groups, such as hen parties. We also offer packages without the option of a spa massage, so be sure to check the inclusions of your chosen package before booking.

Most packages feature one or more treatments and unlimited or pre-bookable access to the spa’s leisure facilities. Dining options or refreshments are also often available. Overnight spa breaks will include accommodation and breakfast, with some packages also offering an evening meal.

You can book our great selection of the best spa massage days and spa breaks online through our secure booking facility, with reservations instantly guaranteed.

If you need more flexibility or want to gift one of our packages, you can purchase a monetary spa voucher, which is redeemable against any of our spa deals. A third option is a standalone spa massage voucher, which is redeemable at selected UK spas.

What to expect at a spa massage

There are lots of different types of spa massage. Popular options include the back, neck and shoulders massage, and the Swedish massage. Other options you might see offered at our spas are the head massage and deep-tissue massage. Each type is great for different guests and conditions, from simple soothing to working deeper into the muscles. There are also specialist pregnancy massages suitable for expectant mothers (usually just in the second trimester).

Whichever you choose, be sure to arrive early for your treatment. You will be invited to change into a robe. You can wear underwear or swimwear underneath. The massage therapist will need to access parts of your body during the treatment, so will ask you to undress in the privacy of the treatment room.

For a full-body massage, you can cover yourself with a sheet, which the therapist will move aside to work on each part of the body in turn. If you’re nervous about nudity, be sure to share your concerns with the massage therapist. A head massage or back, neck and shoulders massage are good options for spa-newbies, offering pampering and relaxation without going as far as the full-body massage.

The therapist will usually apply oils to the skin and use varying degrees of pressure to work out tension in the muscles. Again, the level of pressure used depends on the type of massage. For more, see our SpaSeekers’ Spa Massage Guide and our Top Massage Tips, which offer lots of guidance on how to prepare for your treatment and what to expect.

The Best Spas for a Massage

Here is a selection of spa packages that include massage as an inclusive or optional treatment.

1 Night Rest and Recover Spa Break at Formby Hall Golf Resort and Spa in Merseyside

If you really want to get away from it all for a while, the upscale Formby Hall Golf Resort and Spa offers the perfect backdrop for a few hours of spa pampering and relaxation, with first-class accommodation and amenities, and some lovely grounds to explore.

The 1 Night Rest and Recover Spa Break features one 25-minute treatment chosen from a menu of options that includes, among other choices, an essential tension massage or a head, neck and shoulder massage. You also get to enjoy full use of the Thermal Heaven facilities, plus two hours’ use of the pool. The package also includes overnight accommodation, full English breakfast, a credit towards an evening meal, and refreshments on arrival at the spa. Check in from 3pm and check out at 11am. Book the 1 Night Rest and Recover Spa Break package.

1 Night Love Life Spa Break at the Lifehouse Spa & Hotel in Essex

The Lifehouse Spa & Hotel is a wonderful choice for anyone seeking a haven of tranquillity, with 12 acres of listed gardens and 130 acres of grounds for guests to explore. It also provides the perfect backdrop to a day or two of relaxation and spa pampering.

The 1 Night Love Life Spa Break includes the choice of one 25-minute treatment from a menu that features a back or scalp massage, among other choices. You also enjoy unlimited use of the thermal spa area and gym. Additionally, the package includes overnight accommodation, a three-course dinner, and breakfast. Check in is from 3pm. Check out by 12pm the next day. Book the 1 Night Love Life Spa Break package.

Imperial Mini Pamper Day at the Hythe Imperial Hotel & Spa in Kent

If you’re planning the perfect chilled-out spa day, the Hythe Imperial Hotel & Spa might just have what you’re looking for. Located right on Hythe’s lovely seafront and within a short stroll of the town, the hotel is a great base for a day of spa pampering with, of course, a relaxing massage.

The Imperial Mini Pamper Day package includes three 25-minute inclusive treatments, including a back neck and shoulder massage and a scalp massage. The package also includes two hours’ use of the leisure facilities and a delightful afternoon tea. Arrive from 10am. Book the Imperial Mini Pamper Day package.

Indulgence Spa Day at the Mercure Newcastle George Washington Hotel, Golf and Spa in Tyne and Wear

Within easy reach of Newcastle, Sunderland and Washington, the Mercure Newcastle George Washington Hotel, Golf and Spa offers a wonderfully calm sanctuary that provides the perfect location for a little spa massage relaxation.

The Indulgence Spa Day package features two inclusive 60-minute treatments, including an Elemis deep-tissue full body massage. You will also enjoy an Elemis Skin Solutions prescriptive facial and a 45-minute pre-bookable swim in the hotel’s 10-metre pool. Round off your experience with a light lunch. Arrival time for this package is from 10am. Book the Indulgence Spa Day package.

Baby on the Way Pamper Day at Mercure Sheffield St Paul's Hotel & Spa in South Yorkshire

Located in the heart of the city within a short walk (or taxi ride) from the train station, the mercure sheffield st paul/"s Hotel & Spa is a superb choice for a spa day or spa break. The excellent leisure facilities include a swimming pool, steam room, igloo and aroma grotto.

The Baby on the Way Pamper Day is especially for expectant mothers. It features an inclusive 50-minute Ishga pre-natal massage, plus full use of the leisure facilities (some facilities are not recommended for pregnant guests). The package also includes a light lunch, and refreshments served throughout the day. Arrival time for this package is from 9am. Book the Baby on the Way Pamper Day package.

If you’re new to spa massage and have questions about what to expect, or which type of massage is best for you, take a look at our selection of spa guides.