HERE are 10 recommendations for the best spas to visit in the region.

1. The Secret Spa at Village Farm, Alnwick 

One reader said: "Absolutely amazing, highly recommend every time." The spa offers waxing treatments, eyebrow and eyelash services and pedicures. One Facebook review said: "Amazing day here on Saturday with four friends. The treatments from Daisy and Julie were so relaxing and the facilities perfect. The lunch provided by 'The Running Fox' was absolutely delicious. Hope to return again soon."

2. Hadrian Therapies and Spa, Bingfield

Just a 20 minute drive from Hexham, the award-winning business will soon open for day spas again, with a brand new hot tub and therapies, massages, a meditation garden, tai chi and more. They also offer physiotherapy and craniosacral therapy, a form of alternative therapy that uses gentle touch to massage the skull. One Facebook comment said: "The craniosacral and massage treatments I had were excellent, soothing and helpful and delivered with expertise."

3. Walwick Hall, Humshaugh

With a private pool, fully equipped fitness suite and extensive spa treatments, Walwick Hall has everything needed to unwind. One review said: "Only 10 rooms, so never feels crowded, the spa and pool is tiny but we had it all to ourselves, which we loved. Food in the restaurant was excellent, as was the welcoming cocktail."

4. George Hotel, Chollerford

Five miles from Hexham, the George is in an ideal location. The facilities include the leisure club, with its swimming pool and gym, fitness centre, and access to hiking and fishing spots. One review said: "Had a lovely afternoon using the leisure facilities, Steam Room, Sauna, Jacuzzi and Swimming pool. We had a lovely evening meal then had a nice relaxing walk in the gardens by the river, then had a few drinks while playing chess on a big outdoor garden set."

5. Slaley Hall Hotel Spa and Golf Resort

With more than 4,000 TripAdvisor reviews, the spa has a gym, fitness suite and golf course. One review said: "Really nice hotel, all the amenities, bar, restaurant, pub, lounges, indoor pool, sauna, hot tub, steam room, and pet friendly." Choose from a spa treatment, a swim in the indoor pool, or enjoy walking the grand estate.

6. Doxford Hall Hotel and Spa, Alnwick

There are more than 2,000 TripAdvisor reviews for the Doxford Hotel. One review said: "Had a lovely relaxing break at Doxford Hall. Staff amazing. We stayed in the Coach House and room was superb. Huge comfortable bed and the surprise of underfloor heating in the bathroom. Food was great and amazing spa experience, so relaxing, would highly recommend." With a fitness suite, private jacuzzis, indoor pool and sauna, there is a range of personalised spa treatments to choose from.

7. Matfen Hall, Matfen

Choose from a variety of massages, facial treatments, and therapies to reinvigorate your skin. There's a swimming pool, thermal suite, jacuzzi, and gym to re-energise and relax. One review said: "We loved every bit of it and every single member of staff were lovely and always happy. The spa was fantastic and pool etc. The food was really good and the breakfast was amazing with a great choice." 

8. The Retreat, Riding Mill

With an Everflow pool and Swedish sauna, there is also a luxury fitness and wellness club which offers bespoke personal training. "We visited The Retreat yesterday and had a thoroughly lovely experience. Situated in a beautiful rural setting and very private, The Retreat instantly feels upmarket and homely," one Facebook review said. "You will appreciate every little luxurious detail of this place from the amenities, the spa, the gym, the food and the location," another said.

9. Hands On, Curlew Cottage, Hexham 

From massages to facials and manicures, Hands On provides a safe and welcoming space. Debra set up the business in 2003, and has built up a community of loyal clients. "Had the most fab "Healing Touch" massage today from Debra, absolutely loved it! A combination of a healing massage, reiki, meditation with hots stones and aromatherapy, bliss," one review said. 

10. Revitalise, Hexham

Specialising in contemporary therapies, sports massages and beauty treatments, the business also offer aromatherapy and reflexology. One Facebook review said: "I've had a fair few massages over the years and Toni is up there with the best. Immaculately clean treatment room with Covid rules making things difficult but everything is perfect. Massages are superb with the right amount of pressure."