When stress strikes, or you fancy a play away with your besties or even your OH, make your way to Bowood near Calne for an afternoon tea spa day! Head to the Spa at the Bowood Hotel, Spa and Golf Club – as soon as you turn off the road and start wending your way through shady tall trees you’ll start to say ‘ahh’.

The Spa is part of the hotel which is a separate building away from the grand Georgian Country House on the same site.  On arrival, you’ll receive a warm welcome and a lovely big fluffy gown, towel and slippers  and then are free to start to max that relax. Try the steam room, aromatherapy showers and jacuzzi or even the gym and spend time in the tranquil infinity pool that’s surrounded by floor to ceiling views of parkland. You also have close-up views of the golf course, but don’t worry – although you can see blokes and their little balls, they can’t see you!  Of course, if you’re also a golf fan, you can book a game as part of your visit.

When it’s time for treatments, you’re spoilt for choice by a luxury menu using Temple Spa products – a beautiful brand that’s inspired by the Med. There’s an emphasis on natural wellbeing – fragrances like Frankincense or Eucalyptus and treatments like facials and massages given by thoughtful, expert therapists. Muddy can confirm that the massage bed is one of the comfiest ever too! No red ring around your face when you’re finished!

Afterwards, make sure you book yourself in for afternoon tea in the Shelburne Restaurant which you could also eat in the Library or on the terrace if it’s sunny. Three tiers of dainty finger sandwiches, generous homemade scones and ladylike cakes and pastries. Plus an impressive selection of teas like Assam Halmari Gold or the pleasingly-named Lady Winchester. And naturally a glass of Prosecco on tap too. Annd relaax.