Ragdale’s evening experience is perfect end to a stressful day

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So when I was offered the chance to try out the new evening spa experience at Ragdale Hall Health Hydro and Thermal Spa, I jumped at the chance.

Just a stone’s throw away, Ragdale Hall sits in beautiful grounds just outside of Rutland’s neighbour Melton Mowbray and as I arrive in darkness, it is bathed in glowing light - the perfect serene start to the evening.

Ragdale offers a range of spa packages, from spa days to longer breaks but the aim of the new evening experience is to offer the chance to try out what this luxurious spa has to offer and at the same time, enjoy a delicious evening meal in the brand new Verandah Bar - and at an affordable price.

The dedicated team at Ragdale is committed to offering visitors an experience they won’t forget.

Ragdale’s multi-million pound thermal spa is what draws thousands of visitors each year and keeps the return rate high at 80 per cent - and it’s what I dreamt of trying out during a busy day in the office.

On a chilly night in February, it’s perhaps a brave decision to try out the outdoor pool first but with the thermal hot water, it’s a luxurious step up from taking a bath.

The warmth promised by the volcanic salt bath draws my friends and I next and it is not too long before our skin feels hot and our airwaves cleared by the steam.

The candle pool is a highlight of Ragdale’s offering, highlighted by its prominence on its promotional materials - who has not seen the glorious pictures of a purple pool bathed in candle light? And while it lives up to expectations, the door to the candle pool demands silence so it’s perhaps not the best place to go when you’re with friends.

We head to the traditional whirlpool spa, which sits high above one of Ragdale’s indoor pools and is the perfect place for a catch-up, especially on a quiet evening.

And before we know it, we’re drawn to the Verandah Bar for a two-course meal. It is clear the investment has been well-worth it and the description of “sophisticated” is certainly apt, although I don’t feel out of place swaddled in the fluffy white robe provided by smiling staff.

The menu offers a good selection of meals, and while Ragdale is a health spa, it’s clear that those looking to treat themselves will also not be disappointed. From burgers to salads, there’s something for everyone and it is clear from not just the taste, but the immaculate presentation, that executive head chef David Ross takes pride in his work.

Ragdale has so much more to offer than I was able to try out in one evening - in the spa alone there are five pools and 11 heat facilities, as well as a gym and classes. There’s a range of rooms to put your feet up in and shops to browse, as well as a huge range of treatments for men and women alike. And although 90 per cent of guests are women, the men in our group also gave the evening experience the seal of approval. It certainly will not be long before I’m back at Ragdale trying out the rest of what’s on offer.