A Review of Champneys Spa in Tring

Is Champneys spa worth the cost?

Less than a 46 minute train from London Euston, the estate (that used to be Rothschild family owned) covers 170 acres of stunning english countryside. You can also stay over as it operates as a hotel as well. I've been for three Champneys 'spa days' where a robe, flip flops and tote is included, full use of spa facilities (hydro pool, relaxation beds, swimming pools and steam rooms), access to the daily fitness classes, light breakfast and snacks on arrival, lunch and outdoor activities available such as table tennis, cycles around the grounds and 'games on the tennis courts.

These spa days start at £175, not including treatments. More on the expensive side, but if you buy the return tickets after your day at the spa, it's slightly discounted.

You will be wowed as you walk into this luxury estate and if you manage to go on a sunny day (rare in the UK, let's be honest) the house and gardens are illuminated and even more gorgeous. Staff are very friendly and check-in is simple. I really recommend going with friends and family to lunch, swim and relax with.

Treatments (current pricing as of August 2023)

Massages start at at 20 minutes long (express back massage) for £54 and range to 50 minute massages priced at £105 (face and scalp massage) to 80 minute £162 (Clarins beauty sleep). They offer 24 different types of massage, an incredible variety. Facials start at £59 up to £158 and they offer a wide range of holistic therapies including £59 (cupping) to £96 (acupuncture) and even IV vitamin therapy (starting at £250!).

Champneys has a hair and nail salon, £25 for a blow dry (£55 total for blow dry and cut) and £25 for a mens cut. They offer colourings, tintings and highlights too, alongside healthy hair treatments such as the 'Olaplex treatment'. Manicure's and pedicures start at £66, £72 for gel. You can also get a wax with a half leg wax setting you back £30.

Alongside the free fitness classes that include (e.g boxing, yoga, HIIT, spin and pilates) which I cannot recommend enough, situated in stunning boutique gym rooms, outside on sunny days and halls. Priced Health and fitness bookings include one-on-one PT sessions catered to your fitness goals, health appraisals and even vibrotherapy.

Treatment costs have risen this year 2023 but the level of expertise in the masseuses is second to none (theres even a masseuse school by the entrance of the spa where they train). I have always felt very comfortable and calmed by the spa therapists here who are willing to hear about any needs you may need catering for. I recommend the 50 minute full body Champneys massage as I left feeling so completely rejuvenated and relaxed. If your able to afford it, you shouldn't hesitate to purchase. But if funds are tighter, I would go for an express back or head massage which are both enough time to feel a lot of tension leave your body.

Lunch

Lunch used to be a gorgeous buffet of different foods and I was really disappointed when it got permanently changed to a restricted menu. The starter, main and dessert dishes are very healthy, yet a very small portion, good if your in a calorie deficit but not if your hungry after an intense fitness class and swim! I had to go to the cafe after for a cake to fill myself up more.

The whole day is elevated by the treatments so if your on a budget and only going for the other facilities/meal - I believe a Champneys day is worth it if there is good, sunny weather. Being able to truly enjoy the pool/jacuzzi that stretches to outdoors as well as the garden walks make the day so much more special.

Yet, if your willing to pay for a costly treatment, it's worth it even on more of a miserable day. This is also due to the fact I can find it a little too cramped when it's a cold day and everyones inside.

Is it worth the distance if i'm far away?

Whilst in tring, i recommend a walk through the quaint town and stopping at the 'Black Goo' cafe for their fabulous breakfast/lunches and exceptional desserts and baked goods (the rocky road is the best i've ever had). I would also check out the Natural History Museum, filled with an inspiring amount of taxidermy, where it feels you are truly face-to-face with animals such as bears, monkeys and even a giraffe. Lastly, if your up for more walking you can follow the trail along the nearby Grand Union Canal, or experience The National Trust’s Ashridge Estate and gardens. You can pack a day completely full here, a reason why you might want to stay over at Champneys if your okay with the hefty price tag.