Taking the waters at The Gainsborough Bath Spa

About five years ago now, with one spare night before her Cotwolds wedding, I had the extreme pleasure of taking my soon-to-be-wed friend and another girlfriend for a relaxing night of decadence at the then newly-opened Gainsborough Bath Spa.

The Gainsborough Bath Spa occupies two historic buildings with distinguished Georgian and Victorian façades. Named after the artist, Thomas Gainsborough, the hotel is designed to be welcoming, elegant, vibrant and social and upon arrival it managed to exceed any expectations…

The name Bath conjures up the idea of healing waters and a visit to the mineral rich waters. For guests at this hotel, you don’t even need to leave the grounds as the on-site spa does just that.

Tapping into the original baths, which are fed by natural thermal waters from the aquifer that lies beneath the city - the newly built bathing atrium is so stunning that the Romans would have marvelled at its beauty.

There is even an exact replica of the floor mosaic that was found during construction as you wait near the treatment rooms.

Taking the waters was once a cure-all for whatever ailed you, and while medical science has come a long way since then, a long soak in a warm pool is still a nice way to pass the time.

There are three natural thermal pools of varying temperatures , traditional and infrared saunas, a steam room and a scented ice alcove.

You will feel truly royal as access to the spa area is private for guests and those booked for additional spa treatments. We had the area completely to ourselves on our visit.

You will be treated like royalty as soon as you walk through the doors at Gainsborough Bath Spa. This hotel is fit for a queen (or three!) and has all the ingredients for the perfect relaxing break. Pampering at the spa village, an indulgent afternoon tea, a chic cocktail bar, delectable dining and the comfiest rooms and beds. You will want for nothing, except maybe another night or two to stay.

Our rooms (yes, rooms) featured high ceilings, muted honey and blue-grey furnishings and one of the most comfortable beds I have ever slept in.

The large marble bathrooms have in-floor heating for those cold English mornings and the selection of Asprey toiletries are more decadent that most.

Did I mention the mini-bar is also complimentary

Already relaxed? Indulge even further with a drink at the bar. They have an extensive gin palace menu which made my heart sing.

The staff at the Gainsborough bar go the extra mile to make sure you have a great time. Pick your poison and mention any flavours you like or dislike and they will whip up a cocktail to your taste. Perfection!

Across the hall from the bar is the restaurant. At the time of my visit, it was run by world-renowned chef, Johann Lafer. His 'Dining without Borders' gourmet philosophy is based on using fresh and locally sourced produce to create truly innovative dishes that will please even the fussiest of diners.

I am still dreaming about the soy-glazed pork belly entrée of our three-course meal but on checking the most up to date news, the dining is now headed by Dan Moon.

Breakfast is also served here in the restaurant and I can guarantee you won’t walk away hungry.

This hotel is 100 per cent a treat and if you are wanting to indulge when the world is back up an running, run towards The Gainsborough Bath Spa!

The public Roman Baths and Bath Abbey are only 100 metres from the hotel for the history buffs to explore. The main shopping strip is just beyond that if you need to get anything or just want to explore the boutiques.

If you walk just a bit further, you will get to the Royal Crescent – A sweep of 30 Grade I-listed houses that was completed in 1774. No 1 is now a museum which recreates 18th-century life.