Center Parcs may not conjure images of relaxation, but Aqua Sana spa, deep within the Woburn Forest resort, is determined to give it a go. Open to guests and day-trippers alike, the huge 'World of Spa' centre is spread across two floors, including an outdoor infinity pool, Zen garden and café. They've literally thought of everything; it's a spa theme park with extra water beds. Giggly groups of guests grab robes and make their way around a maze of rooms with exciting themes like ‘The Mineral and Gemstone Spa’ and ‘The Blossom Spa’, each with its own series of steam, sauna and relaxation areas.
Helpful tips are displayed everywhere – handy if you don't know your ‘Lava Volcano Sauna’ from your 'Crystal Steam Bath'. For those after a more bespoke visit, it's easy (and recommended) to top up your spa day with a goodie from the treatment menu. Again, absolutely everything is covered, from deep tissue massages and silky body scrubs, to Hopi ear candling and volcanic mud wraps.
A new addition for 2016 is the great Elemis 'Speed Spa' offering an express menu of facials all within 30 minutes. We tried the signature ‘Nutritious Auspicious’, which was just as nourishing as it sounds. Even without any of these extra scrub-ups, a relatively reasonable £79 gets you unlimited spa access, lunch and a welcome glass of fizz, so it's the perfect hen-do activity or day-date. It's also just an hour on the train from St Pancras, so you'll be there faster than you can say 'Aqua Meditation Room'.
Good for: Lively spa days with gal pals/hen parties in search of some of pampering.
Top treatment: The ‘Decléor City Detox’ will scrub, rub and cleanse London right out of your pores.