A tranquil spa pool invites relaxation and calm. Spas are special places where we feel calm, pampered, and far away from our worries. Imagine soft music playing, warm water waiting, and everyone speaking gently. It sounds lovely, doesn’t it? However, if you’re visiting a spa for the first time, you might feel nervous about what to do.
The good news is that spa etiquette, the polite way to behave at a spa, is mostly common sense. Now, we’ll explore the do’s and don’ts of spa etiquette in the UK so you can relax and confidently enjoy your visit.
The basic rules are the same, whether at a famous countryside retreat like Champneys or Ragdale Hall, or a local day spa like Meridian Spa in Greenwich. Let’s dive in (quietly, of course).
Keep the Atmosphere Calm and Quiet
One of the most important things about any spa is the peaceful atmosphere. People visit spas to escape stress and find quiet. That means everyone should do their best to keep noise down. Use your “spa voice,” a fancy way of speaking softly so you don’t disturb others. If you’re chatting with a friend, whisper or talk quietly. Avoid shouting or loud laughter in spa areas, even if you’re having fun; remember, others are trying to relax.
Mobile phones should be on silent or, better yet, left in your locker. In fact, many spas prohibit phone use in their facilities. A spa is the perfect place to take a break from screens and enjoy a little “digital detox.” If you must keep your phone with you, keep it on Do Not Disturb mode and never take calls in common areas. “Mobile phones are discouraged,” advises Aysun Mut, Spa Director at the Corinthia Hotel London, “and deeper relaxation areas such as sleep pods are noise and conversation-free zones”. In other words, no ringing or typing sounds, let everyone (including yourself) enjoy the silence. You respect other resting guests by keeping the spa quiet and calm.
It’s also polite to be mindful of shared spaces like saunas, steam rooms, and hot tubs. For example, don’t splash or horseplay in the pool; a spa isn’t a water park. If a sauna or hot tub is busy, enjoy it reasonably and then let someone else have a turn. One spa expert suggests spending no more than about 10 minutes in a steam room or sauna so that everyone can use it. Remember, we’re all sharing the spa, so a little consideration goes a long way.
Dress Code: What to Wear (and Not Wear)
Spas in the UK usually provide a robe and slippers for you to wear between treatments. Underneath the robe, you’ll typically wear a swimming costume (swimsuit) when using pools or hot tubs. In Britain, most spas ask guests to wear at least swimwear or a robe in all public areas, including saunas and steam rooms. This means you don’t have to be naked in front of others. In fact, nudity in shared spaces is usually not allowed. You can relax knowing everyone else will be modestly covered too.
It’s a good idea to bring swimwear and flip-flops with you. Spa expert Abi Wright recommends wearing something comfy and getting two swimming costumes.
“One to swim in and have your treatments in.”
That way, you have a dry outfit after using the pool or sauna. Also, check if the spa provides towels, robes, and slippers, and if the spa’s restaurant has any dress code (some ask you to wear smart-casual clothes or keep your robe on over swimwear).
During treatments like massages or facials, wear whatever makes you comfortable. Some people leave their underwear on; others might be naked under the towels. It’s up to you. Your modesty will always be protected with towels or blankets, and therapists only uncover the part of your body they are working on. A therapist will usually step out of the room while you undress and lie down, and they’ll knock before re-entering. If you ever feel unsure about how much to undress, just ask your therapist. They’ve heard it all before and will be happy to guide you. The key is that you should feel at ease.
Arrive on Time and Relax
Being punctual is an integral part of spa etiquette. Spas operate on schedules therapists often have back-to-back appointments. If your treatment is at 2:00 PM, try to arrive at the spa at least 15-30 minutes early. Why so early? First, when you check in, you should fill out a short consultation form about your health or preferences. This paperwork helps the spa tailor your experience (for example, noting any allergies or injuries). Second, arriving early gives you time to change your robe and unwind before your treatment begins.
Most spas actually encourage guests to come even earlier to enjoy the facilities. If you can access a pool, sauna, or relaxation lounge, you can relax before your scheduled treatment. “Always arrive for spa treatments 10–15 minutes early to check in and fill out your form,” advises Abi Wright, adding that “it’s always nice to use the pool, sauna and steam room before treatment, and have a shower as well to open up the pores and relax the muscles.”. A warm shower or sauna session can loosen up your muscles, which might make a massage even more effective.
Be Clean and Considerate
Spas are all about health and hygiene. Showering before using shared facilities like pools, hot tubs, or steam rooms is good manners. A quick rinse helps remove any lotions, perfumes, or sweat from your body, keeping the water clean for everyone. In fact, many spas have shower stations right next to these facilities as a gentle hint.
On the same note, don’t arrive for a treatment sweaty or dirty. If you’ve just worked out or spent time in a chlorinated pool, rinse that sweat or chlorine. You wouldn’t want the therapist to ask you to wash up. How embarrassing. Clean skin is more receptive to treatment; your therapist (and the next guest using the room) will surely appreciate it.
Around the spa, practice good manners and courtesy. A spa may feel luxurious, but that doesn’t mean you leave your manners at the door. Simple things like saying “please” and “thank you” to the staff cost nothing and go a long way. Treat the spa facilities like you would treat your home, or better. Don’t leave wet towels or rubbish lying around. Most spas have bins and towel drop-off points, or you can ask staff where to put used towels. After using a relaxation lounger or footbath, leave it tidy for the next person. Essentially, leave every area as you’d like to find it.
To sum up spa manners: be clean, quiet, and considerate. If you do that, you’ll fit right in and help maintain the peaceful paradise everyone came to enjoy.
Communicate with Your Therapist
When it’s time for your treatment (like a massage, facial, or body wrap), you’ll be in the capable hands of a spa therapist. Communication is key to getting the most out of your treatment. Don’t be shy, therapists are professionals who want you to have a great experience. If it’s your first time, it’s okay to say so.
You can also tell them if there are any areas you’d like them to focus on or avoid (for example, if your shoulders are tense or your lower back is sore). “Whether it is your first or hundredth spa break, don’t be afraid to ask questions,”. Therapists appreciate knowing about problem areas or pressure preferences because it helps them give you the best experience possible.
During the treatment, you can talk or stay quiet; it’s entirely up to you. Some people love a friendly chat, while others prefer to close their eyes and drift off. You won’t offend anyone by staying silent. In fact, many masseurs and beauticians will take your lead: if you’re chatty, they’ll chat; if you’re quiet, they’ll quietly continue.
Finally, if you have any personal preferences, let the spa know in advance when you book. For example, many UK spas will allow you to request a male or female therapist if that makes you more comfortable. But you usually need to ask beforehand so they can schedule the right person. The spa will do its best to accommodate you. Communication before and during your visit ensures a spa experience tailored just for you.
Tipping and Saying Thank You
Giving a small extra amount of money to show appreciation for good service can be a bit confusing, especially if you’ve heard different advice from around the world. In the United Kingdom, tipping at a spa is not generally expected the way it might be in some other countries. Spa therapists in the UK do not rely on tips as part of their wages as much as, say, American therapists do. So if you don’t tip, don’t worry, you’re not doing anything wrong. Many British spa-goers simply thank the therapist and perhaps fill out a feedback form or tell the manager if they had an excellent treatment.
If you do decide to tip, the polite way is to leave the money at reception when you check out, or enclose it in a little envelope (some receptions have envelopes for tips). This way, it can be given to your therapist or shared among the team, according to the spa’s policy. It’s better not to hand cash directly to the therapist during the treatment, to avoid any awkwardness. Also, try to tip in cash if possible, as many spas prefer cash tips.
But again, a heartfelt “thank you” can be just as meaningful. Therapists and staff appreciate kind words and knowing you enjoyed their work. You might even drop an email or note to the spa afterwards to compliment good service.
Holding Out The Olive Branch
Visiting a spa should be a treat, not a worry. Spa etiquette is simply about respect for others, the space, and yourself. If you’re unsure what to do, you can always ask the spa staff; they are there to help you feel comfortable. Spas want you to enjoy your time. Spa industry experts stress that spas are for everyone and shouldn’t feel exclusive or scary. While spas are wonderfully welcoming and easy to navigate once you have the hang of them, especially for new spa-goers, they can seem a little daunting,” says Abi Wright, a UK spa expert. But armed with these etiquette tips, you don’t need to feel daunted.
Now that you know what you need, you can fully enjoy your spa day. Breathe deep, release stress, and float off on a calm cloud. With proper etiquette, you and everyone around you will have a wonderful, rejuvenating experience. Enjoy your time at the spa, it’s for you, and you deserve it.