Seasoned spa-goers are discerning beasts. They’ve seen it all: town houses converted into rhassoul chambers, underground pools born from fresh water springs, Moroccan hammams served by Artesian wells. In a market so densely crowded, it’s rare to find a location that truly stands out.

Perched on the edge of the Pennines in West Yorkshire, the award-winning Titanic Spa manages just that. Converted from an Edwardian textile mill, the beautiful mottled brick construction was originally built in 1911, the same year as RMS Titanic. Its stylishly refurbished interior is crowned by 30 deluxe eco apartments overlooking the leafy landscape, while the results-driven product and treatment menu derives from the Decléor, Elemis, Neom Organics and Comfort Zone ranges.

Titanic Swimming Pool

As the UK’s first eco spa, Titanic has paved the way for others like it with its organic philosophy. Decked out with solar photovoltaic roof panels, the building is as green as they come, served by its own natural spring water source. Recycled paper and vegetable ink dyes are used for printing, while the onsite Bistro champions fair trade ingredients, choosing locally sourced, in-season produce.

My trip kicks off with a spectacular dinner. No detox here, but instead comforting, flavourful combinations presented with panache: creamy risotto followed by seared fillet of seabass on puréed potato, scattered with salad leaves and capers. I have a nightcap in new cocktail lounge Bar 1911, which impresses with its copper details, wall of greenery, and succinct selection of champagne concoctions and twists on classics. When I eventually retire to my apartment, I discover that it spans two floors, with a glossy open plan kitchen and dining area below and a cosy double bedroom in the eaves above. From the living room, panoramic windows and a balcony reveal the rolling hills and the River Colne babbling directly below.

new outdoor hot tub

After a deliciously deep sleep and breakfast in bed (expect to find a hamper filled with croissants, jams, orange juice and other goodies waiting for you on the sideboard), it’s time to give the spa some attention. A warm-up dip in the salt-regulated swimming pool is followed by some hot tub action out on the terrace, sound-tracked by birdsong. Back inside, the heat experience facilities are the best I’ve encountered, with a sauna and steam room, plus herbal and aromatherapy variants on each, along with foot baths, experience showers, and an icy plunge pool for the brave. An Egyptian mud chamber is available to book for exfoliation treatments (£35pp) using mineral-rich organic mud and herbal steam.

I skip the fully equipped TechnoGym in favour of some down time in the relaxation lounge, replete with roaring fire, snuggly throws and reading library. Next, it’s time for my Comfort Zone Elements Massage. Founded in Palma, the brand has a rich scientific background and offers ‘a complete system of care for the skin, body, and soul’. The 55 minute Elements treatment is split into four stages, each beginning with your choice of an essential oil blend. The idea is to create a sensorial journey, moving through the Orient (de-stressing), Mediterranean (energising), India (soothing), and Arabia (restoring). Throughout, my attentive therapist expertly works the knots out of desk-weary upper back, putting just the right amount of pressure on the points of tension between my shoulder blades. I leave blissfully relaxed and ache-free, ready for another few hours spent in the squidgy confines of the chill out area’s giant beanbag…

Titanic Spa Heat & Ice Experience

To book your visit to Titanic Spa, visit the website or call 01484 843544

Spa Days from £79pp
Titanic Heat & Ice Experience includes:
-Leisure Club
-Titanic Spa Heat & Ice Experience
-15m Salt Regulated swimming pool with Hydrozone and underwater music
-Light lunch in the bistro

Spa Breaks from £129pp
Simply Spa includes:
-Overnight Accommodation in a Serviced Apartment
-Leisure Club
-Titanic Spa Heat & Ice Experience
-15m Salt Regulated swimming pool with Hydrozone and underwater music
-Continental Breakfast in your Apartment
-Light Lunch
2 Course Evening Meal

 

Words: Mary-Jane Wiltsher

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