The Marquis Spa, Suffolk: A Blissful Countryside Escape

Nestled in the idyllic Suffolk countryside, The Marquis Spa has quickly established itself as a haven of understated luxury within the area. With its blend of modern facilities, warm atmosphere, and breathtaking views, it’s a welcome escape from the daily grind within Constable country.

Review: The Marquis Spa, Suffolk

As an extension of the beloved hotel and restaurant, The Marquis Spa boasts state-of-the-art facilities that manage to feel both sleek and welcoming. From the quiet surroundings to the over-sized day bed loungers (complete with towels and cosy blankets), everything is geared towards comfort. Indoor and outdoor swimming pools are joined by the thermal suite with a Scandi-style sauna and a sizeable hydrotherapy pool. Positioned opposite floor-to-ceiling windows of the rolling fields, it’s no accident that you are able to soak in the warm, bubbling water while gazing out at the undisturbed views.

Although the décor adopts a traditional and sympathetic approach to the landscape with wooden beams, exposed brickwork and chunky oak flooring, it maintains a contemporary feel with lots of glass, minimal furniture and a very impressive touch screen beverage system down to the choice of milk and espresso shots. Despite its English countryside location, there’s a definitive nod to Mediterranean architecture with arched ceilings, grand pillars and a neutral colour palette. If it wasn’t for the subtle grass carvings into the limewash walls to pay homage to its countryside roots, you’d think you were reclining in a Tuscan villa.

While you’d be forgiven for thinking spa treatments predominantly have relaxation in mind, The Marquis Spa also focuses on results-driven offerings such as the ever-popular Hydrafacial and an extensive Oskia facial menu. Even the 60 minute full body massage includes dedicated kneading of persistent knots, dissolving any tension lingering in my legs and shoulders. But it was the unwavering attention to detail – from the soft bed linens to the incredibly comfortable pillows – that put the treatment in the top tier of the (many) massages I’ve had.

The spa doesn’t offer food directly, but The Marquis’ restaurant is a short walk away – and definitely worth the trip. Located within the hotel, the menu features a seasonal and local selection of dishes such as beef wellington, tarragon gnocchi with cavolo nero, hazelnuts and honey, and east coast skate wing with a potato puree, chargrilled leeks and smoked mussels. Pay special attention to the truffle-infused butter with the warm, crusty bread; you’ll never look at butter the same way again. For those with a sweet tooth, the toasted brioche and chamomile panna cotta is a must-try to set you up for the rest of the day.

It’s no mean feat to create a modern yet restorative spa experience in the middle of the English countryside, yet The Marquis has managed it seamlessly. Using the location and breathtaking views not only to its advantage but as a scene-stealer adds a level of authenticity that’s hard to achieve. Beautiful aesthetics and world-class treatments aside, it’s the smaller touches that you remember long after you leave: the branded tote bag containing macaroons, a robe and flip-flops; the Dyson hairdryers in the changing rooms; the service button next to the loungers. Every whim has been preempted and taken care of discreetly, leaving guests to focus on that all important relaxing. The result? Feeling lighter than air and ready to book your next spa day.

BOOK IT

Book spa days and treatments at marquissuffolk.com/spa