Titanic Spa – the UK’s first eco spa – is the definition of a ‘destination spa experience’. Located in Linthwaite, on the outer edges of Huddersfield in West Yorkshire, this restored 20th-century textile mill consists of a large ground floor which has a huge spa, a restaurant, a separate bar and a shop, with apartment style accommodation located above.
As a Yorkshire lass, I have visited Titanic Spa a couple of times before, once on a Hen Do and also an overnight break with my mum, but both of these visits were pre-Pandemic, so I was excited to visit the expanded and updated facilities, for a girly getaway with my best friend, Sophia.
It is praised for being one of the best spas in Yorkshire, but does it live up to the reputation?
First Impressions
The spa looks stunning both outside and in. The beautiful architecture of this restored mill nestles amongst the glorious hills of the Pennines, with the River Colne running alongside. It is situated just off the M62 so it is easy to get to from York, Leeds or Manchester. There is also a large (free) car park which makes things nice and easy if you’re travelling by car, as we did.
Inside, Titanic has a stylish interior throughout, with a friendly and calm atmosphere, aided by discreet yet attentive staff who immediately put us at ease. We arrived early to make maximum use of the spa facilities, and storing our luggage behind the large reception was quick and easy.
The Spa Facilities
Titanic’s spa experience is multi-award-winning and it is easy to see why. It really is all about the spa at Titanic; the facilities are extensive, impressive and beautifully maintained. There is a 15m salt regulated, heated indoor swimming pool with an integrated bubble pool, a sauna and steam room situated pool-side, a gym with Techno equipment and large, modern changing rooms with lockers. A hot tub sits on the outside decking next to the river. So far, so lovely, and whilst these facilities are great, for us, it is the Titanic Heat and Ice Experience that is truly the star of the show.
After a swim in the pool and testing the bubbles in the hot tub, we snuggled back into our cosy robes and slippers, (provided by the spa), and headed off to try out everything the Titanic Heat and Ice Experience had to offer.
Based on the ritual of bathing where the body is heated and then cooled by a series of experiences, the experience guiding your body through a sensory journey. The Titanic Heat and Ice Experience includes a Herbal Infusion Room, Saunarium, Aromatherapy Room, Crystal Steam Bath, Himalayan Salt Sauna, Foot Baths, Ice Room, Plunge Pool, a Cold Plunge Pool and Cold Drench Bucket, (apart from the obviously health benefits, lots of fun was had tipping it onto ourselves!), and Experience Showers. There is also a Rasual Chamber for an additional cost. I particularly liked the Relaxation Lounge, which was a large and atmospheric space with relaxation beds, ‘snooze’ bean bags and a bean bag pit, where you can lay next to a crackling fire with low dimmed lights.
Located at the other end of the spa to the pool, are 20 treatment rooms where you can book in for a variety of massages, facials or beauty treatments. Titanic Spa offer a comprehensive range of treatments and I opted for my favourite treatment: a full body message. I love a spa day and have experienced lots of full body messages, but this was one of the best I have had and was carried out by a lovely, friendly and knowledgeable therapist.
The treatment room was modern, low-lit, warm and cosy, ensuring that the environment for my treatment was completely relaxing. The scrubs used come from brands such as Elemis, NEOM and Comfort Zone, and my therapist made a note of which products were used in the treatment which she ran through after. There was no hard sell and it was genuinely useful to have a list of everything used. There is a large shop in the foyer where products can be bought, should you wish. My top tip would be to book your treatment for early in the day, as it is wonderful to then be able to carry on the peaceful vibes through your visit.
The result? Deep relaxation and a sense of peace and wellbeing. Bliss!
The Accommodation
After spending the morning trying out the spa facilities, we practically floated to our spa apartment upon check-in time. Heading to our room in robes and slippers – and being able to do so without leaving the spa – maintained our overarching lovely, relaxed vibe. The only odd note was having to walk through reception to access the lift, which does feel slightly strange, but the apartment itself was lovely. It is laid out in a mezzanine format with the bedroom on the upper level and open plan kitchen / dining / living space on the lower level. There are large glass doors leading to a balcony overlooking the River Colne.
It is a quirky and cool space with modern décor, a Smart TV, comfy beds, a settee and dining table and chairs. You can tell the apartments haven’t been updated for a few years, as the kitchen facilities do feel like they are starting to err on the tired side; however given the wonderful restaurant and bar on-site, there is little need for the fully fitted kitchen, so this is a bit of a moot point and I only point it out for balance. There also wasn’t a coffee machine, which would have been a welcome addition for a caffeine addict like me. That being said, the cool layout and contemporary vibe did offset those small niggles.
There was also a gorgeous complimentary hamper provided for breakfast, which was packed with goodies like croissants, Alpen, Weetabix , biscuits and yoghurt pots, with orange juice provided in the fridge. The apartment contains everything you’d need from an overnight stay or weekend break.
Dining and Drinks
As part of our Overnight Package, we had a one-course light lunch and our dinner included. Lunch was enjoyed in robes and slippers – which feels decadent yet friendly – and the bistro’s dining area subsequently has a lovely relaxed atmosphere.
The bistro serves up fresh, locally sourced, seasonal menus with a low carbon footprint. Wherever possible they source organic and fair trade ingredients and our meals were delicious. There is lots of choice and the staff are happy to help recommend dishes and service was never without a smile.
Dinner is served in the same bistro but no dressing gowns and slippers allowed for evening dining. This works well to separate the day to evening, but the gloriously relaxed atmosphere remained.
Separate to the bistro is a stunningly decorated cocktail bar, which serves delicious drinks and offers a more vibey environment for post dinner drinks and chat.
The Environment
Titanic is proud of its eco-credentials, placing a key emphasis equally on both the wellbeing of their guests and on the environment. They have invested £1.5 million to create a carbon-neutral building and have won many awards for their commitment to sustainability, which includes include sourcing renewable energy through solar photovoltaic roof panels and providing spring water, provided through their own borehole. There is an on-site energy-saving OTEX laundry system which also cuts out the transport of linens and towels. They are aiming to become a fully carbon neutral and sustainable business working in partnership with their suppliers and spa guests – great to hear.
Verdict
Titanic Spa is the ideal destination if you are looking for an eco-friendly getaway in which to escape, relax and indulge. It is an oasis of pure bliss nestled in the hills of Yorkshire. You won’t want to leave!
Opening Times
Reception: 8am – 10.30pm
Reservations: 8am-8pm Monday-Friday 9am-5pm Saturday-Sunday
Titanic Heat and Ice Experience: 8am-9pm
Relaxation Lounge: 8am-9pm
Gymnasium and Indoor Swimming Pool: 8am-9pm
Outdoor Hot Tub: 9am-8pm
Treatment Suite: 11am-7pm
Cost: Overnight Spa Breaks start from £199 per person. Over 16s only.
Book your stay here: www.titanicspa.com
Address: Titanic Spa, Low Westwood Ln, Linthwaite, Huddersfield HD7 5UN
Review and images by Victoria Reddington @vic_reddington
Some images supplied
