North West Leicestershire - at the heart of the National Forest - is fast carving itself out a reputation as an up-and-coming spa destination.

The area's two newest spas are in the northern quarters of the district, offering distinctive settings for rest and relaxation.

Complementing the existing spa resort of Champneys Springs in Ashby, and the town's 19th century position as a former spa town known for baths and pleasure gardens, the district now also boasts The Retreat in Castle Donington, and the Spa at Breedon Priory.

A host of boutique treatments, a prosecco bar, hair and nail bars are nestled in restored Grade II-listed Georgian surroundings at The Retreat.

Opened in April 2021 by husband-and-wife team Martin and Lucy Goodwin, The Retreat not only brings the boutique spa experience to a historic market town, but also provides the space for beauty trainees to hone their skills with experienced beauty therapists.

They said: "We were amazed we got this building and space and were thrilled we were able to open it back up to the community.

"We offer a stripped-back version of a spa and an amplified version of a salon."

The Retreat is based in Castle Donington

For those looking for a countryside escape, the Spa at Breedon Priory sits six miles north of Ashby.

Set in 24 acres, the premises features a spa within a spa, tranquil spaces for relaxation, outdoor pools and saunas.

Owner Graham Blunt opened the spa in 2022, and, despite never having stepped foot in a spa before his wife suggested the venture, the boutique business has already been crowned Boutique Spa of the Year at the 2023 Professional Beauty Awards.

He said: "The location is one of the things that gave us the confidence to open the spa.

"It was supposed to be a retirement project, but now I have no plans to retire and we've got the whole family involved.

"We want all of our guests to be looked after, and so have created a high-end boutique day spa experience."

Despite the challenges of breaking ground and renovating during a pandemic, both spas have settled well into North West Leicestershire, bringing new and differing experiences to those looking to relax and treat themselves.

Each business received Enterprising 3 grant funding from North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC) as part of its work to support and promote businesses to launch and expand. Both spas benefitted from £25,000 grants.

Councillor Tony Gillard, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration at NWLDC, said: "We know the district is home to thousands of entrepreneurs like Martin and Graham who are determined to see their businesses succeed and we're committed to supporting them to develop and grow.

"We want the district to be not only a great place to live and work, but also to visit, so I am proud that we're becoming known as a spa destination for anyone looking to relax, unwind and treat themselves."