The concept of spas in China is quite different to that in the UK, even though there are many modern spas sprouting up in the mainland. “The traditional Chinese spa used to be mostly a simple reflexology affair. Of course there are plenty of good contemporary spas in China but the ones in the UK adopt a more eclectic style,” says Cao Ying, an accountant from Chengdu who frequently travels to the UK on business. By this, the spa aficionado is referring to how UK spas often draw inspiration from themes as diverse as the naturist spa to the Turkish hammam, while incorporating the use of modern amenities such as experience showers and warm fluid-filled mattresses.

“But the high standard of service in UK spas is its niche which sets them apart from those in China. Essentially, you can ask for any type of beauty and spa treatment which can be customized by the spa therapist to your personal needs,” says Ying.

While the greatest concentration of spas is in London, the best spas are outside of the city, ranging from Chewton Glen at New Milton, Hampshire to the Bath Spa Hotel at Bath Spa and TurnBerry Hotel & Spa in Ayrshire. “If you want the best spa experience, you’d have to go to these destination spas,” says Ying.

Spa treatments don’t come cheap though, she adds. Prices for spa treatments can easily range from GBP 30 on the low end to GBP 120 for a caviar body treatment at some of the more exclusive spas listed below.

As well as the differences in cost between spas in the UK and China there is also a lifestyle aspect. Bath culture has existed in China for centuries and its influence still extends to peoples’ lives today. Going to public baths is a relatively common way to spend a weekend afternoon to unwind and relax before the start of a new week. The UK doesn’t have this; it’s true that the famous Roman Baths were popular in their day, but their influence has not continued to modern day society, and public baths do not exist. In the high-end market, the idea of unwinding at a spa is still regarded as an extravagant treat by many people.

As people are becoming increasingly aware of environmental issues, some spa resorts in the UK are catching on to the concept of ‘going green’. They adopt energy-saving methods such as geothermal water, solar power and wind turbines to heat the spa and generate electricity.

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