Dive into the summer! The UK’s 10 best outdoor spas revealed, from Surrey to Yorkshire

The heating is on. And here’s how to cool down in the best way possible.

Spa Seekers has unveiled the UK’s 10 ‘best’ outdoor spa pools for the ultimate relief from the sweltering weather.

The listed pools are set in beautiful gardens, historic buildings and enchanting views of the countryside. And there’s a ‘refreshing’ natural pond for when the mercury rises uncomfortably.

Scroll down to see all 10 pools – which one makes the biggest splash for you?

ELLENBOROUGH PARK – CHELTENHAM, GLOUCESTERSHIRE

This choice is full of ‘history, charm and class’, but it’s the heated outdoor pool that makes it Ellenborough Park in Cheltenham the ‘perfect’ place to visit in the summer, according to SpaSeekers.

“Nothing beats a refreshing swim on a hot day, the clear water lapping around you, with the breathtaking view of the hotel and spa in the background,” says the specialized spa site.

“It’s the kind of place where you can laze around all day, soak up the sun and completely lose track of time.”

UTOPIA RETREAT AT GREAT FOSTERS – EGHAM, SURREY

The swimming pool Utopia retreat at Great Fosters is an ‘exceptional’ feature that offers guests a ‘peaceful’ retreat.

Set in “beautifully landscaped” gardens and enclosed by an Elizabethan-era wall adorned with wisteria, the pool area “exudes an air of timelessness and tranquility,” says SpaSeekers.

“Guests can enjoy a refreshing swim in the water or simply relax on the comfortable sun loungers by the pool, enjoying the serene atmosphere and surrounding greenery,” it adds.

If you’ve worked up an appetite after all that relaxation, the cream tea is said to be “famously” delicious.

OCKENDEN MANSION – CUCKFIELD, SUSSEX

Nestled in the grounds of a historic manor house, Ockenden country house is a contemporary spa overlooking the nine acres of grounds and gardens that surround it.

The indoor pool is connected to an outdoor pool, so in the summer it’s great to feel the sun on your skin while you take a dip.

“With lounge chairs along the pool, you can dry off and order a cocktail or two when you’re done swimming,” suggests SpaSeekers.

MODDERSHALL OAKS COUNTRY SPA RETREAT – STAFFORDSHIRE

Moddershall Oaks Country Spa RetreatThe hotel’s courtyard is an inviting place to relax in the open air.

It features a characterful patio and a huge heated hydrotherapy pool with its own outdoor fire.

“With pool attendants on site to make sure you have everything you need, you can take a refreshing dip before kicking back on one of the lounge chairs with a glass of soda,” recommends SpaSeekers.

COTTONMILL SPA AT SOPWELL HOUSE – ST ALBANS, HERTFORDSHIRE

Cottonmill Spa at Sopwell House offers a ‘wonderful spa experience’ with a ‘serene’ setting and ‘refined design’.

The expansive outdoor pool is a standout feature according to SpaSeekers, who say it “serves as an oasis of calm in the heart of St. Albans.”

The site adds: ‘The pool, nestled amid beautifully manicured gardens, offers a luxurious respite from the world, ideal for sun-soaked relaxation or invigorating swims. With both shaded and sunlit areas, you can choose whether you want to top up your tan or just read a book in the shade.’

THE SPA AT LACEBY MANOR – GRIMSBY, LINCOLNSHIRE

When the mercury rises, sometimes quick relief is in order. Cue the unheated natural swimming pond at Laceby Manor spa.

“It’s the perfect remedy if you’re sweltering during a heat wave,” says SpaSeekers.

For those looking for something a little more traditional, there is an indoor and outdoor pool with relaxing jets and ‘magnificent’ views.

NADARRA SPA – SKIPTON, NORTH YORKSHIRE

As you stroll to the outdoor infinity pool at Nadarra Spa,” says SpaSeekers, “a sense of calm comes over you.”

And no wonder. The photo here shows how expansive views of the Yorkshire countryside are offered in a place ‘where nature and luxury meet’.

SpaSeekers adds: ‘On a summer day, the warm sun and the soft rustling of leaves create an atmosphere of tranquility and rejuvenation.’

MACDONALD BERYSTEDE HOTEL & SPA – BRACKNELL, BERKSHIRE

Located a few minutes from Ascot Racecourse, Macdonald Berystede Hotel & Spa “blends modern luxury with historic touches and landscaped gardens,” says SpaSeekers.

The continuation: ‘When the summer weather starts to get to its best, the outdoor pool really comes into its own and offers guests a refreshing retreat.

‘Surrounded by carefully maintained gardens, the pool offers a space of tranquility, allowing visitors to enjoy the tranquility while enjoying a leisurely swim or simply relaxing poolside. The seamless blend of the pool’s modern design with the hotel’s traditional architecture creates a unique atmosphere of timeless elegance.’

THE SPA AT BREEDON PRIORY – DERBYSHIRE

Tucked away in the serene Derbyshire countryside, The spa at Breedon Priory offers a ‘unique’ spa experience with its ‘blend of tranquility and charm’.

The outdoor pool is a standout feature, providing “an enticing oasis for relaxation and rejuvenation,” says SpaSeekers.

As a bonus there are ‘stunning vistas of rolling countryside’.

TAPLOW HOUSE HOTEL & SPA – MAIDENHEAD

The outdoor pool Taplow House Hotel & Spa is a major attraction according to SpaSeekers, describing it as ‘a beautiful retreat for guests longing for tranquility and refreshment’.

Bordered by ‘elegant’ gardens, the swimming pool creates an atmosphere of ‘serenity and relaxation’ with a panoramic view of the surroundings.

SpaSeekers adds, “If you’re looking for an extra layer of relaxation, take advantage of the Temple Spa treatments available, such as body wraps and massages.”