There’s the bride-to-be who desires a bachelorette in Vegas, with all-night parties, glittering lights and champagne towers. And then there’s the one who’d rather trade sequins and stilettos for silk robes and slippers. For her, a spa-cation is the ultimate pre-wedding escape before the whirlwind of wedding celebrations. It is a chance to slow down, recharge and indulge in luxury with her squad. Think morning yoga practices, rejuvenating mediation sessions, soothing massages, detox rituals, relaxing facials, leisurely brunches and long conversations that take her from exhaustion to restoration.
If you are dreaming of an experience that captures this spirit of calm indulgence, Ellenborough Park Hotel & Spa in the Cotswolds is the ultimate pick. Surrounded by serenity and your closest circle, you can emerge not just glowing, but grounded at this tranquil haven.
Location & Accessibility
Nestled on the edge of the idyllic Cotswolds countryside, the elegant manor-house estate of Ellenborough Park Hotel & Spa lies between the rolling slopes of Cleeve Hill (the highest point in the region) and the sweep of the Cheltenham Racecourse gallops. It’s located a mere two hours from London by rail or car. The direct train from London Paddington to Cheltenham Spa takes roughly two hours, followed by a short 15-minute drive. The best part about this property is the fact that it is easily accessible and yet it feels a world away, making the property ideal for a bride and her tribe for a pre-wedding reset.
Style & Vibe
From the stone-turreted façade to the sweeping 90-acre parkland, Ellenborough Park exudes refined country-house elegance. Inside, you’re welcomed by original oak beams, fireplaces and vintage details that sit alongside plush furnishings, marble bathrooms and comforting elements. The gardens are expansive and beautifully manicured, ideal for lingering strolls with the girls. The overall setting is peaceful and relaxing, featuring a lawn for morning brunches, a quiet library for evening conversations and open areas that help you unwind.
The Cosy Stays
Ellenborough Park Hotel & Spa is home to 61 bedrooms and suites that blend classical country charm with contemporary indulgence. From beautifully appointed Classic rooms to Suite-level escapes with freestanding tubs, Hypnos beds and robes you’ll actually want to live in, each space has its own character. For a bachelorette with a circle of friends, the flexibility of the estate works wonderfully. You might spread across several rooms or even take over a suite cluster for a sense of shared indulgence.
Khush suggests staying at The Lodge. A one-of-a-kind, two-floor retreat within the estate, it is outfitted with a homely kitchen, a welcoming dining area and a living room with a log fire that’s perfect for lively evenings. Upstairs, a generous bedroom with a large ensuite bathroom invites you for a restful night and serene morning. While ideal for a close-knit group of 2-3 girlfriends, The Lodge’s intimate luxury also suits a romantic couple’s pre- or post-wedding getaway. That’s not all, it is designed to ensure your furry friends also feel at home.
The Serene Spa
At the heart of the Ellenborough Park unique experience is the spa. Hidden within the tower of the manor and surrounded by trees, the spa makes for an intimate sanctuary. It presents several treatment rooms, steam and sauna, a heated outdoor pool, a Jacuzzi, a gym and many indulgences. Whether you want a deep-tissue unwind, a glow-boosting facial or a full sensory reset, every ritual is tailored to your needs and preferences. Some of their signature treatments include the De-Stress Body Ritual, Revitalse Face Ritual and Ellenborough Park Signature Treatment.
While each treatment is personalised and designed to target your stress areas, there’s also a Tailored For You ritual that’s completely bespoke and customised with different massage techniques. Every treatment is done using premium products (like Êlemis) at the hands of experts.
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Beyond standard spa fare, the Spa Garden is the most standout aspect. You can book the space as a secret retreat for 90 minutes (or longer). It includes an outdoor hot-tub, ice bath, sauna, sun-loungers and dining area, ideal for a private pamper party with the bridesmaids. Capacity is up to six guests (with supplements for more), so you can make it your own intimate oasis. Embrace the natural setting and reduce stress while enjoying the facilities. One of the highlights of this experience is you can relish an ice cold glass of Taittinger Champagne from your very own Taittinger Yacht Box along with light refreshments.
Culinary Delights
From cosy indoor restaurants to al fresco dining options, a wide array of culinary delights await here. Morning begins in the library-turned-breakfast room, featuring a lavish continental spread and table service for hot dishes, served in an ambiance of wood-panelled calm and gentle light. It’s a luxuriously attentive start rather than hurried buffet chaos. Afternoon tea is equally considered. Delight in a curated tea selection, homemade desserts and a setting that invites laughter and lingering. You can feast indoors or enjoy al-fresco dining on the sweeping lawns, slip into one of their quirky carriages for afternoon tea or sunset bubbles and savour every moment under the open sky.
The hotel’s main Restaurant is rooted in local flavour and seasonal produce, complementing the spa-cation’s restorative mood rather than competing with it. But that is not to say you can’t have some tipsy fun. At The Horse Box Brasserie, you can enjoy soulful British classic dishes along with well-crafted cocktails, in its country-chic setting.
The Wow Factor
What will truly elevate your stay here is the impeccable service and warmth. The staff strike the perfect balance between professionalism and genuine care. They are attentive without being intrusive. From the moment you arrive, you and your girls will be made to feel not just like guests, but part of the estate’s family. Every detail, from a perfectly timed pot of tea to thoughtful recommendations for your stay, reflects a standard of hospitality that feels personal and luxurious.
For more information:
Ellenborough Park Hotel & Spa
www.EllenboroughPark.com
