REVIEW: The Vineyard Spa, Berkshire.
A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of visiting The Vineyard Spa in Berkshire and it couldn't have come at a better time. Stressed out at work and feeling worn out from a busy schedule, this was the perfect opportunity to take some time out for myself and leave my woes at the door.
The Vineyard Spa is part of The Vineyard Hotel and located just outside Newbury in Berkshire. Tucked away down a lengthy country lane, arriving on its luscious grounds, I was excited for what lay in store.
Facilities include a steam room, sauna and jacuzzi, complete with changing rooms and numerous areas for relaxation dotted around the large swimming pool. As the spa is attached to the hotel, it is frequented by its guests with unisex facilities and even designated times for children to access the spa.
The changing room is cosy, stocked with bottles of water, hairdryers, towels and Darphin products to use at your leisure. I can envisage this space becoming cramped quickly on a busy day as it's quite small and the lockers themselves would benefit from better lighting as I found myself scrambling around inside my locker to locate my belongings.
Those who are easily embarassed may be interested to know that the toilet is located within the changing room itself, right next to the shower. I think it would fare better if it were situated outside the changing room altogether, for reasons I feel don't need further explanation.
Facilities include a steam room, sauna and jacuzzi, complete with changing rooms and numerous areas for relaxation dotted around the large swimming pool. As the spa is attached to the hotel, it is frequented by its guests with unisex facilities and even designated times for children to access the spa.
The changing room is cosy, stocked with bottles of water, hairdryers, towels and Darphin products to use at your leisure. I can envisage this space becoming cramped quickly on a busy day as it's quite small and the lockers themselves would benefit from better lighting as I found myself scrambling around inside my locker to locate my belongings.
Those who are easily embarassed may be interested to know that the toilet is located within the changing room itself, right next to the shower. I think it would fare better if it were situated outside the changing room altogether, for reasons I feel don't need further explanation.
. The toilet is situated on the left, next to the changing room shower
The Vineyard Spa offers a range of treatments by Darphin and Grapetherapy. I chose two treatments (one complimentary) Unfortunately, upon arrival I was told that there were problems with the hot water in the treatment rooms so I would be unable to have the Detoxifying Algae Wrap (55 mins). I was a little disappointed as I'd been looking forward to it. However the staff couldn't apologise enough and this was out of their hands. Unfortunately these things happen.
I chose a Deluxe Manicure (I hour) in its place and trundled off to the treatment room. Now, the treatment rooms are located in a different part of the building I was taken on an impromptu mini-tour of the hotel - down a long corridor, past the kitchens, meeting rooms and near the hotel bar, all whilst I shuffled along in my bathrobe and slippers. I found this a little off-putting, but luckily I didn't come across too many guests so avoided any awkard moments.
The manicure itself was okay. The spa uses Mavala polishes and you get to keep the colour you choose which is a nice extra to the treatment. My therapist was lovely and my nails were in a dire state but afterwards I thought my cuticles could have been worked on a little more and the polish chipped a day later. I suspect this may have been down to my antics in both the jacuzzi and swimming pool though.
After my first treatment, it was time for lunch, which was served up in a stylish looking Bento Box. I opted for the beef, which accompanied with creamy mash and vegetables tasted sublime. Dessert was in the form of traditional strawberries and cream, which again tickled my tastebuds no end. I was very impressed with the lunch menu which was obviously chosen to suitably satisfy any hunger cravings but not leave the diner feeling bloated, unable to move afterwards. Top marks for lunch!
The Vineyard Spa offers a range of treatments by Darphin and Grapetherapy. I chose two treatments (one complimentary) Unfortunately, upon arrival I was told that there were problems with the hot water in the treatment rooms so I would be unable to have the Detoxifying Algae Wrap (55 mins). I was a little disappointed as I'd been looking forward to it. However the staff couldn't apologise enough and this was out of their hands. Unfortunately these things happen.
I chose a Deluxe Manicure (I hour) in its place and trundled off to the treatment room. Now, the treatment rooms are located in a different part of the building I was taken on an impromptu mini-tour of the hotel - down a long corridor, past the kitchens, meeting rooms and near the hotel bar, all whilst I shuffled along in my bathrobe and slippers. I found this a little off-putting, but luckily I didn't come across too many guests so avoided any awkard moments.
The manicure itself was okay. The spa uses Mavala polishes and you get to keep the colour you choose which is a nice extra to the treatment. My therapist was lovely and my nails were in a dire state but afterwards I thought my cuticles could have been worked on a little more and the polish chipped a day later. I suspect this may have been down to my antics in both the jacuzzi and swimming pool though.
After my first treatment, it was time for lunch, which was served up in a stylish looking Bento Box. I opted for the beef, which accompanied with creamy mash and vegetables tasted sublime. Dessert was in the form of traditional strawberries and cream, which again tickled my tastebuds no end. I was very impressed with the lunch menu which was obviously chosen to suitably satisfy any hunger cravings but not leave the diner feeling bloated, unable to move afterwards. Top marks for lunch!
After lunch, I was quick to try out the jacuzzi, and naturally turned the bubbles up to the highest notch! Then it was time to try out the pool. I loved it, spacious, not too cold and wide enough to swim in comfortably. I must have chilled out in both for approximately an hour before I was whisked away for my second treatment, The Vineyard Massage.
Upon entering the treatment room, the lights were already dimmed and relaxing acoustic music and candles set the scene. My therapist, again ever the professional carried out a full body massage, targeting stiff joints and kneading knots in my shoulder and neck area. Before I knew it, my hour was up and I emerged feeling refreshed and relaxed.
I returned for more frolics in the pool and jacuzzi, before chilling out in the sauna. Overall I had a great afternoon. The spa wasn't busy at all, despite it being a Friday and at one point my friends and I had the entire place to ourselves for at least a good hour. I left feeling revitalised and refreshed.
The staff are friendly and knowledgeable and went above and beyond to ensure I had a pleasant stay without being overbearing. If you're new to spas, then this would be the ideal introduction. The spa has a great treatment list, excellent food, the facilities are enticing and the surrounding grounds are all geared towards a relaxing and peaceful atmosphere.
They have a fab offer in the form of their spa evening, which includes four hours of spa time, a main course and a 25-minute treatment each for 3105. A great way for friends or couples to relax together and catch up.
For more information about The Vineyard Hotel and Spa, visit their website, check out their Twitter account or give them a call on 01635 589 415.
* I was a guest of The Vineyard Spa and received one complimentary treatment.
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