Set in the pretty Cotswold countryside, Calcot Manor is a cosy retreat with stylish rooms, great food and friendly staff. But it's the hotel's spa that's the real gem. Situated in a separate building ensuring peace and tranquillity, an indoor pool, sauna, steam room, exercise studio and seven treatment rooms await guests.

The spa menu uses Aromatherapy Associates products and includes a range of massages, wraps, scrubs, manicures and pedicures. I opted for the Citrus Detox Reviver, an aromatherapy massage, followed by a manicure; I was impressed with the professional touch of the therapists and the knowledge they had of the products. My husband was equally pleased to discover his deep tissue massage lived up to its name with all the knots in his back pummelled and kneaded away.

The piece de resistance, however, was the outdoor hot tub in front of a roaring fire. We dashed through the pouring rain, de-robed and jumped into the welcoming hot water. A member of the spa's staff then braved the rain to bring us both a glass of champagne.

I emerged from the spa feeling on top of the world and thoroughly pampered. And to top it off, we had a delicious dinner in the hotel's restaurant before walking the short distance to our bedroom for a peaceful night's sleep.

On the menu: Facials, massages,non-surgical facelifts, beauty and hair treatments.

Signature treatment: The 85-minute Aromatherapy Associates Enrich treatment.

Cost: A one-night stay costs from £313 for a standard double room with breakfast and dinner. Also includes £60 worth of vouchers to spend on spa treatments per room. Valid from Sunday-Thursday.

Verdict: 9/10