All too often regarded as an extension of London or a throughway to the Continent, Kent rarely benefits from recognition as a destination like Devon or Cornwall. However, the Garden of England offers bucolic countryside dotted with medieval pubs, distinctive seaside towns like Whitstable and Margate, and the historic cities of Canterbury and Tunbridge Wells.
From the rolling High Weald to the rugged North Downs, and from crab butties served on Dungeness beach to Michelin-starred food served in the 10-person intimacy of STARK in Broadstairs, Kent blends coastal nostalgia, rural charm and urban interest. This quirky fusion is bound together by Kent’s burgeoning reputation as a foodie epicentre and its eclectic spa offerings. Here you can be massaged with organic products in a rustic potting shed by a babbling stream, enjoy romantic couples treatments by the seaside or splash out on a wellness weekend in a grand destination spa hotel. Here are the best spa hotels in Kent.
How we review
Every hotel in this curated list has been visited by one of our expert reviewers, who are usually hosted on a complimentary basis. They stay for a minimum of one night, test at least one meal and trial other experiences that the hotel might have to offer.
From
£
204
per night
A country house spa hotel set in lush gardens that offers a sense of tranquility, despite being within easy reach of London. The traditional Victorian and clapboard exteriors (some original, some new) belie the property’s contemporary interiors, slick service and impressive Utopia Spa, which is one of Kent’s best with a dramatic duplex swimming area designed to resemble Roman baths; hair and nail salons; a large gym; 17 treatment rooms offering expertly administered therapies from British brands Ila and Temple Spa; and a tempting shop. We recommend The Ayurvedic Inner Peace treatment, which fully delivers on its name.
From
£
135
per night
From
£
167
per night
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£
71
per night
• The best hotels in Margate
From
£
195
per night
From
£
113
per night
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The sixth Pig hotel in the burgeoning litter has seen a historic Grade II* listed Kent house tran…
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A unique opportunity to sleep in the grounds of Leeds Castle, sharing the heritage site with just…
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Another addition to chef Mark Sargeant and Josh De Haan’s portfolio of Kentish restaurants with r…