Keeley Rodgers unwinds with a luxury spa day not far from home

YOU know you’ve found a good spa when you lose track of reality. Seeing the clock for the first time on our relaxing day at the Oxford Belfry we didn’t want to believe it was time to leave.

Our day of pampering began as exactly that. Greeted with a very warm welcome we were soon introduced to our therapists for our treatments. I opted for the speciality aromatherapy massage which, after a busy time, was just what I needed. The spa is a nice size. Big enough to have all the facilities you’d look for – swimming pool, sauna, steam room and even the obligatory ice fountain for the brave guests – but small enough to feel cosy, and personal.

The relaxation room does exactly what it says on the tin and is the perfect atmosphere to get some much-needed ‘you time’ before and after treatments. And, if you can’t quite muster up the energy for a full swim, the loungers beside the pool make for the perfect place for a little snooze. It’s perfectly acceptable, if not encouraged, during a day of luxury. It’s hard not to lose yourself, especially with the help of the snugly towels, robes and slippers.

We did however, find the energy to make our way to lunch, and were not disappointed. We opted for the buffet and with so much choice took our time to sample several dishes, there was some delicious food on offer.

For the more energetic guests there is a fully equipped gym and two outdoor tennis courts for working up a bit of a sweat, either before, or after dinner. And with 154 bedrooms there’s no need to hurry home.

Sadly, our day did come to an end, and it was out into the rain from our sanctuary, but feeling very refreshed and pampered.

With a newly refurbished spa, and the end of wintry dark days not quite yet in sight, it’s the perfect time to escape to the Oxford Belfry.

Located just off the M40 it offers a great location, whether for business or, in our case, pleasure.

The hotel is currently offering a spring spa break from £105 per person. Enjoy: a 60-minute Spa Ritual or two x 30-minute spa treatments; light lunch; a complimentary bottle of fizz; use of the pool, sauna, steam room, new relaxation room, ice experience and gym; an evening meal worth £28 per guest; overnight accommodation; breakfast the following morning plus a robe and cosy slippers.

The Oxford Belfry, Milton Common, near Thame, OX9 2JW. 0845 0345777

Go to qhotels.co.uk/make-a-booking