Be transported away to a place of serenity and calm on this well oiled machine.

Today my Mum and I headed to the relatively new Spa experience in Newmarket.

The Spa at Bedford Lodge boasts to offer a “Tranquil Escape” and that it certainly does.

Pro’s
•Julie the masseuse
•Attention to detail
•A truly serene and relaxing atmosphere

Con’s
•Warm drinking water by hydrotherapy pool
•Broken multi user jacuzzi section
• A little chilly in relaxation room by treatment room and restaurant
•A very dark steam room

On arrival we were welcomed by the soft tones of the receptionist who efficiently checked us in and showed us around the spa.

Despite being in a brand new building, nostalgic feelings washed over me as I saw the Swimsuit dryers that my brother and I used to  fight over as children visiting the Bedford Lodge on a Sunday and the cone like paper cups that we used to use to throw ice-cold water at each other when our parents weren’t looking! I digress…

We changed quickly in anticipation of the treats ahead of us but did note the handy GHD’s that were available and the quirky and attractive style of the room.

With soft robes and branded flip-flops on we made our way through to the hydrotherapy pool. The shower experience was a giggle and started the day off on a high note. It would have been nice to find a board outside the shower telling us the benefits of each setting but perhaps they’re just there to awaken your senses and have a bit of fun!!

Next we moved into the pool itself. The pool is made up of two impressive and effective shower heads and four water experiences created by metal bars. Do not let the mental image of this put you off. The bars are cleverly designed to mould around your body and ensure that the water is pounding your limbs in the correct place! As mentioned above, it was a shame that the shared Jacuzzi area would not work. Sadly the only member of staff we saw for twenty minutes was a tour guide and it seemed unfair to mention it then.

After at least ten minutes in each area of the hydrotherapy pool and a good natter putting the world to right we moved into the steam room. It is a lovely temperature and has a plaque outside outlining the benefits and health precautions of the treatment. Our one complaint about the steam room was that it was awfully dark. Mum, who for obvious reasons had to take her glasses off, couldn’t see a thing and it took a good five minutes of us perching on the end of what we hoped was a seat before my eyes adjusted enough to navigate ourselves into a more comfortable position. Once we were settled it was a lovely steam. The seats comfortably mould to your body and the gentle steam provides a constant heat unlike some steam rooms that seem to constantly have to adjust themselves.

After our steam we were well and truly ready for a glass of water but unfortunately the machines by the pool were producing warm water.

Upstairs there is a mezzanine and roof garden with a hot tub. Neither of us being ones for cold weather we opted for the cushioned bench in the warm.

Soon we were introduced to Alisha and Julie. As I sat in the arm-chair in the treatment room, Julie very clearly explained the treatments ahead of me and taught me to allow my own senses to choose the aromatherapy scent my body required.

The body scrub was gentle, unlike a Traditional Moroccan Hamman spa, yet very effective. The 30 minute treatment finished with a warm shower in the room before I got back into the heated bed for my full body massage.

I have been lucky enough to experience massages in many different places from Marrakech to turkey and the Alps to top Uk spa’s. The full body massage by Julie at The Spa at Bedford Lodge was the best relaxation treatment I have ever received.

The room includes a heated unit within a cupboard to provide hot towels, a hydraulic heated bed, shower and relaxing music. The only change I would like is for there to be a swimsuit dryer, as found in the changing rooms downstairs, that the ladies can use to prevent you from having to put on a damp swimsuit after your incredible treatment!

I was then taken to the exclusive relaxation room to “come round” and meet with Mum. The room is very dark and relaxing (if a little cold) and a nice place to enjoy a flavoured water.

It turned out that my Mum’s massage by Alisha was just as personalised and fabulous as my own.

We had just been questioning whether we were the only people in the spa that day when we walked into the lunch room made up of comfortable sofas and arm chairs. The room was almost full of couples and groups of ladies that had also been in the spa the entire morning. The schedules are cleverly put together so that you rarely bump into other groups and couples which is wonderful for a truly quiet and exclusive experience!

Lunch was delicious. The chocolate and lavender brownie and the carrot and walnut cake were both wonderful and particular well portioned!

After a few hours of reading and Lounging we were called in for our hour-long facial. I was once again treated by Julie who explained the process and allowed me to hold a mirror to watch her use a light device on my skin to establish my skin type. The only area to be highlighted were my eyelids which proved to be dehydrated. Julie ensured me that She would focus on this area. The treatment was extremely indulgent although I am confident I was asleep for at least 40 of the 60 minute treatment.

All in all the day was fantastic. The staff have been well trained and although have clearly learnt a script, refrain from sounding robotic at any point. They’re pride and enthusiasm for the spa and its future shines through creating a wonderful atmosphere.

I would highly recommend the Relaxation Day for couples and would encourage you to book in for a massage alone should you be looking to treat yourself.

I must add that the Relaxation Day for two at The Spa at Bedford Lodge was won by my partner during this years July festival. Nonetheless all views are my own.