Overnight stay at Lifehouse country spa resort

Sometimes it's the little things that make all the difference and during my overnight stay at Lifehouse the spa paid great attention to detail to ensure the experience was one of maximum comfort and relaxation.

Lifehouse is located about 80 minutes from London and on arrival at Thorpe le soken station there is a complimentary taxi service to the spa.

Having been delayed thanks to a last minute meeting I was greeted on arrival, shown to my room then taken down to the cafe bar to join the rest of the group for a delicious afternoon tea.

We were booked in for a massage at 6:30, leaving us plenty of time to explore the spa and enjoy it's facilities. Facilities included a heated swimming pool, gymnasium, hot tub, salt steam room, 12 acres of garden, a mini library and a relaxation room with the most amazing massage chairs!

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Much of my time was spent in the steam room, hot tub and massage chairs. I thought the thermal spa area had a great ambiance at night, but would have benefited from window blinds during the day to help shield from the bright sunlight.

To help with relaxation there are almost no clocks inside the building and mobile phone reception is limited to the restaurant and guest bedrooms. You can however request a buzzer so you don't miss any of your treatments.

I was treated to a back massage and I can honestly say it was the best one I've ever had. The Babor body oil smelt amazing, my therapist Fatima took on board the fact that I like my massages to be firm, spent most of the time working on my lower back and really took the time to smooth out any knots of tension.

Dinner was a delicious 3 course affair with a a variety of dishes on offer. I opted for the partridge to start, followed by duck breast with mash and madeira jus before finishing with chocolate fondue and peanut butter ice cream for dessert.

After a blissful night's sleep and an early morning swim I made my way down to breakfast which was just as indulgent as dinner. Breakfast included a cold buffet of fruit, cereal, pastries and juice, followed your choice of a hot dish. I would highly recommend the eggs Benedict royale.

Check out time is at 11 but you are welcome to use the spa facilities for the day. I took full advantage of this, by spending yet more time relaxing in the massage chairs and having an informal chat with naturopath Sue Davis. There are even lockers available although these get taken up quickly so get in there early!

The distance from London means that it's not ideal for a quick treatment but perfect for an overnight stay or a weekend break. The spa is modern and luxurious, staff were friendly and helpful and the food was absolutely delicious. My time there was very relaxing and I left feeling thoroughly pampered and refreshed. The spa had a lovely chilled out vibe, and I would highly recommend both for a girly break or for a romantic weekend away.

If you are thinking of treating yourself, then check out their offers page, where prices start from £59 for a day trip or £99 for an overnight stay.

Have you ever been to Lifehouse spa? What's your favourite spa treatment?