Industry Intelligence Top 10 UK spa gardens
BEST FOR
A MEDITERRANEAN JOURNEY IN THE ENGLISH COUNTRYSIDE
The Spa at South Lodge
SPA STATISTICS The Spa at South Lodge www.exclusive.co.uk/the-spaat-south-lodge Instagram @southlodge_spa Garden product partners Alexander Rose, Gartenart, Sparcstudio
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Designed to recreate the tranquility of the Mediterranean, The Spa at South Lodge embraces nature to stimuate all of the senses. From the rustling of ornamental grasses to the sight of dappled green acers contrasted against white Siberian Iris and blue agapanthus, to the delicate scent of jasmine planted throughout the spa garden, guests are offered a truly sensory journey. Garden facilities include a mind-body terrace, a 100-seat decking area with loungers, a unique freshwater wild swimming pool, a natural pond with a fountain and a hydropool. “Originally, we were going to segregate off the garden dedicated to the spa,” says head gardener Paul Collins “but in the end, we opted not to – guests can just wander into the grounds which boast more than 360 species of trees and plants... We thought people would stay in the spa section, so have been surprised by how many take an amble around the property, soaking in the Sussex countryside in their spa robes!” The Mediterranean spa restaurant, Botanica, mirrors the garden offer, serving fruit and vegetables from the grounds, with many key ingredients often foraged from the woods or specifically grown on site. “We always knew the spa garden would be a big draw, but we’ve been surprised by how it’s impacted our overall usage,” says spa director Ian Mackie. “Guests stay all day because of the garden. This has a positive effect on secondary spend and how guests perceive the spa as a real destination to unwind and take in nature.”
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