In need of relaxation? This Suffolk spa hotel is a must visit

Find out why this horseracing town is the perfect break from the city

Set on a country house-like estate nestled among race tracks, Bedford Lodge is a four-star Suffolk hotel in the horseracing town of Newmarket.

Find out why this rural retreat is a must-visit, whether you're local or planning a trip to the area...

The spa at Bedford Lodge

Safe to say this spa ticks all the boxes. Sauna? Check. Steam room? Check. Hydrotherapy pool? Check. Facilities are all large enough that you don't feel you're competing for space, sparkling clean and calm, with plenty of loungers about the place.

If the weather allows, head to the secluded rooftop for the jacuzzi above, or curl up and read your book in the swinging chair nearby.

It's definitely worth your while booking in for a massage during your stay. Therapists are friendly and attentive but not too 'in your face', listening to exactly what you want and need from your treatment time. You'll have that all-over chilled out feeling when you head for the relaxation room afterwards.

The hotel

Fancy an overnight stay or longer break as well as spa time? The four-star hotel offers everything you need for a relaxing, refreshing stay – comfortable beds, armchairs, toiletries aplenty and even Sky Movies, should you wish to make the most of your room for the night.

When you check in, there are even Hotel Chocolat chocolates and a Molton Brown gift waiting for you. Divine.

Dining

There's no need to head out in search of a dinner spot as the hotel boasts its own cosy 2AA Rosette restaurant, The Squires. The bar and restaurant menu has all of the classics, from sirloin steak to mussels to Caesar salad, while the à la carte menu offers specially crafted dishes making the most of the local area's offerings. Choose from the restaurant's hefty wine menu for the perfect pairing.

Things to do

Historically Newmarket is a horseracing town, with several studs and the races attracting thousands of people every summer. If this piques your interest, pop into the Horseracing Museum for a whistle-stop tour of the area's story.

If you're lucky enough to bag a table, The Pantry is a must-visit for delicious, fresh food, as well as cakes and scones to die for.

And if you want to head further afield, the pretty university city of Cambridge is around half an hour's drive – in the summer, punting on the river is a must.

To book a spa treatment or day package at Bedford Lodge call 01638 676130 or email spareservations@bedfordlodge.co.uk