Atmosphere and clientele: The multimillion-pound thermal spa is the newest addition at Ragdale Hall. It has 12 water and heat areas, including a fabulous indoor and outdoor waterfall pool. Guests can swim under the stars if they want to, and there is a candle pool, ice fountain, cave shower and volcanic salt bath in which to de-stress. Delicious scents and sensations are everywhere.

A bubbling footbath takes you from one part of the spa to another (the sensation of bubbles exploding on the soles of tired feet was divine). The caves are quiet and vary from wet to dry heat, and if you get too hot, you can rejuvenate yourself in the ice fountain. Joyously, there are fluffy towels all over the place.

Treatments: Our spy had a Beyond Bliss calming ritual, which included a hot stone massage and a facial, using Elemis products. She was so impressed with the results that she went to the spa shop afterwards to stock up. That night she slept like a baby, which, for an insomnia sufferer, was beyond price.

Highs: The thermal spa is heavenly, and the staff were friendly without being in-your-face.

Lows: Guests whispering in the candle pool, which is meant to be silent.

Marks out of five: Four and a half.

If you have a salon that you either love or hate, e-mail sarah.vine@thetimes.co.uk

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