SpaNK Thermal Deep Tissue Massage, from £80 for one hour (www.spacenk.com)
They say: Uses thermal stones and tissue manipulation to unravel tension and tight muscles by invigorating blood flow; also eases chronic tension, muscular stiffness and headaches.
We say: Firm massage, which took the knots out of tension spots in the back. The masseuse applied just the right amount of pressure - not too soft, nor too strong. Totally rejuvenated.
Mark: 10/10

Stephen Price, Jubilee Place, £120 for one hour (020-7351 3332)
They say: Alternative health practitioner and qualified reflexologist uses holistic and ayurvedic forms of massage; official therapist for Harlequins rugby team 2003-2005.
We say: A kind of bespoke hybrid treatment involving deep-tissue massage, physiotherapy and corrective release. Included application of intense pressure, which veered between pain and pleasure. Learnt a lot about the body, and felt less tense after session.
Mark: 8/10

Aveda Elemental Nature Massage, from £50 for 30 minutes (020-7759 7355)
They say: A personalised deep massage to relieve tension and stress using Aveda essential oils. Includes deep breathing and localised pressure to improve effect.
We say: The long and detailed consultation at the beginning made all the difference. Therapist pinpointed problem areas, including posture and helped to relieve built-up tension. I left feeling light and renewed - a brilliant treatment.
Mark: 9/10

Ila Kundalini back massage, £65 for one hour (01608 677676)
They say: Deeply healing and revitalising, the treatment includes cupping the hands and focusing awareness on each of the energy centres along the spine.
We say: Unconventional massage, without the usual pummelling and pounding. But the subtle pressure placed on different energy points is surprisingly effective. I felt amazingly relaxed, physically and mentally, afterwards.
Mark: 9/10

The Spa at Luton Hoo Hotel, Beds

Ginny McGrath reviews the £5m spa at the UK's latest country house hotel opening

• The Stables Spa, Windsor

8 spas for budget-seekers

Thrifty indulgence: from the best £30 massage in London to a full hammam for a fiver in Syria

BACKGROUND

• Top 10 family spas in Britain

• London spa guide

• 5 spas for city pep-ups

Related Links

• 10 spas for the super-serious

Hampstead Chiropractic Clinic, £55 for one hour (020-7722 3922)
They say: Blends traditional sports massage with soft tissue manipulation and stretching; particularly effective for locating and releasing tightness and correcting postural faults.
We say: A specific sports massage best suited to those with injuries. Improved a damaged knee; exercises for home suggested. The downside is the therapy room, which is far from indulgent.
Mark: 7/10

Bath House Signature Treatment, The Royal Crescent Hotel, Bath, £85 for two hours (01225 823367)
They say: The first 45 minutes are divided between visits to the wet and dry heat Karahafus (steam and sauna) to ease muscle tension, then relaxation in teak-lined tubs and a full-body sea-salt and essential oil exfoliation, as well as a full body massage.
We say: The combination of soaking in the natural spa water, and being massaged with natural oils, eased all aches and pains and led to a high level of relaxation.
Mark: 8/10

ESPA Aromatherapy Sports and Fitness Massage, £200 for two hours (020-7838 9888)
They say: This full-body treatment is appropriate either before or after exercise as it uses essential oils of lavender, rosemary and clove to help to increase circulation and warm muscles, preventing strains and relieving aches and pains. Ideal for anyone involved in sports, fitness or heavy physical work.
We say: The therapist worked deeply as promised using smooth strokes and very hot oil with great effect. She also remembered to give special attention to a dodgy left shoulder, which was impressive. The whole thing was a perfect bodily experience.
Mark: 9/10

Micheline Arcier Body Massage, £60 for one hour (020-7235 3545)
They say: A traditional body massage using own blend of essential oils that works on muscles and connective tissue as well as stimulating blood and lymph circulation.
We say: Good, firm pressure and divine smelling oils that are hand-blended on the premises certainly helped to relax the body as well as alleviate muscle tension. Left feeling relaxed and ready to go straight out, rather than wiped out for the evening. Mark: 8/10

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