The Best Spas with an Outdoor Pool

New luxury hotel and members club Estelle Manor offers lashings of luxury in its hybrid offering.  And its new spa, Eynsham Baths, continues the decadence in its Roman-style wellness space. But it’s the heated 25-metre outdoor pool on the Riviera-vibed terrace that has our heart. Offering top-end luxury, your pockets will need to be equally deep at this exclusive new boujee bolt-hole.

Another new spa hotel on the boutique spa hotel scene, this reimagined Bournemouth beauty is a game changer.  With a stunning 30m outdoor swimming pool flanked by cabanas, loungers and candy-striped umbrellas (see photo), the 5-star Nici hotel even has its own beach. There’s an indoor pool in the new spa too, and the Miami décor gives you holiday vibes from the second you step into the funked-up foyer.

Art’otel is another newcomer, with a stunning rooftop infinity pool offering fabulous views of the new Battersea Power Station development and South London beyond.  Its 14th-floor restaurant, Joia, also enjoys killer views, plus a particularly beautiful bar, and flavourful Iberian cuisine.  Plus, there’s a small but perfectly formed spa at ground level, and contemporary art throughout.  Perfect for a relaxing London spa stay with a difference.

All-round luxury playground, The Grove, is another spa hotel that excels in the pool department thanks to its large, moody black mosaiced indoor swimming pool, and inviting outdoor pool in its pretty walled garden. The outdoor pool even has its own sandy beach, bar, and al fresco cinema. Plus, OFSTED-registered childcare’s on hand if you don’t want your little darlings to cramp your swimming style. And, if you’re looking to really splash out, check in to one of the hotel’s recently refurbed suites to take your stay to the next luxurious level.

A real coastal cracker, and great all-rounder, Carbis Bay Hotel and Estate are bang on the beautiful sandy beach, just round the corner from St Ives. With full spa facilities, including an outdoor pool overlooking the bay, you can swim, spa, dine and repeat in luxury – and maybe even spot a seal or dolphin while you’re at it. Plus, the hotel offers guided sea swimming sessions if you fancy a wilder dip.

As well as boasting a beautiful outdoor hydro pool overlooking the South Downs, South Lodge also has a lovely natural reed swimming pool which comes into its own during the summer months.  There are plenty of great walks around the hotel too and its intimate restaurant, The Pass, now has a shiny Michelin Star.

Another newcomer, Elcot Park, is another great option for a stylish spa break with a good-sized outdoor swimming pool. The family-friendly hotel has tasty dining and relaxation spaces too, and the fact that everything’s new makes it feel even more luxurious.

We’re loyal fans of beautiful Cowley Manor and love how new owners The Experimental Group have reimagined the hotel with French flair and the occasional quirk. The outdoor and indoor pools are as inviting as ever, and rooms are a design-forward delight.  The food and cocktails hit the spot nicely too.

Pennyhill Park’s spa playground includes multiple indoor and outdoor pools and is a great choice if you’re looking for outdoor spa r&r.  You might be able to spot a passing England rugby player too as the team trains on the estate. If you’re after a bit of poolside privacy you can now book a designer cabana too.