Champneys Health Resort

I was lucky enough to spend the day at Henlow Grange on Tuesday with a friend. This was the first time for both of us. We had to book this day months in advance so we could both clear our schedules and do nothing but relax for the day.

On arrival we were issued with our robes, lockers and our treatment schedules. We took the guided tour as we didn't want to miss out on anything. What I wasn't prepared for was the fact that we could join in upto 20 classes ranging from spin and indoor cycling to pilates and yoga. Unfortunately I didn't bring the right attire for an exercise class - oh what a shame!

My aim for the day was to relax. So we hit the swimming pool first, a 25m pool with a jacuzzi. We were impressed with the decor and the details, yes there were a small few areas on the ceiling that could use a little tlc but on the whole we were very impressed. After our feeble attempts at swimming a few lengths we moved onto the jacuzzi swiftly followed by the steam room. If you have never experienced a steam room it can be quite daunting at first, walking into a room where you can't see much and the extreme heat it takes a couple of minutes to relax and enjoy. But once you start relaxing in there you don't want to leave.

After leaving a steam room you are supposed to go for the cold shower to cool down your body temperature. I did go for the cold shower but wasn't brave enough to stand underneath it, I stood to the side and splashed myself with the cold water.

We repeated the above cycle a couple of times before we had to leave the pool area and head off for our massage and facial. These were followed by a lunch that was far too healthy but quite tasty.

After lunch we relaxed overlooking the pool until we felt ready for another steam session - I could easily get addicted to this.

We both had a manicure and pedicure and then we sat in the conservatory while our nails dried. From the conservatory you can see some of the beautiful grounds and hear people playing tennis.

We have decided that it is absolutely necessary, for our own sanity, that we do this at least once a year, preferably with a couple of nights included just to ensure that we do completely relax before we return to our hectic lives.

I think top of my Christmas List will be - vouchers to a health resort please.