Last week I was lucky enough to be invited along to The Retreat.
The stunning Georgian building in the heart of Castle Donington in Leicestershire, has been given a new lease of life after a 500,000 investment and will now act as a plush new beauty and wellness retreat creating several jobs.
Since launching their flagship salon in Nottingham city centre in 2016, The Beauty Temple concept of salons has gone from strength to strength with The Retreat becoming the latest business venture for owners Lucy and Martin Goodwin.
Located on Market Street in Castle Donington the building is steeped in history, and was once a former drapery and dressmaker in the 1800s.
The Retreat is split over four levels and offers guests, not just a menu packed with the latest body and beauty treatments, but wellness too with yoga classes and holistic treatments.
The luxurious surroundings will enable friends and family to spend a day together with the many packages on offer, and relax in the outdoor hot tub in The Deck courtyard in a secluded spot , or with a glass of fizz at the champagne nail bar before sampling one of the delicious treats from the Blossom Cafe, which is open to the public daily for breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea as well as takeaway hot drinks.
There is also a gift shop for people to browse, whilst one of the floors is dedicated to The Social Space, a versatile area where special events such as Self Care Sundays, and yoga retreats will be held. The space has been beautifully decorated and has a spa and separate dining area.
A Juliet balcony has been added to capture the picturesque view out to the church, making it the ideal place for a private gatherings such as baby shower, hen party, birthday or any other special occasion.
The new premises is also home to a new training academy, offering beauty courses which are open to the public. With no requirements for prior experience, there will be a wide range of courses available with anticipated additions added over time to accommodate the forever evolving beauty industry. Classes will be kept small for optimal learning and practical work. There will be one to one’s and bespoke training sessions available.
The refurb, I have to say, is absolutely stunning. We were treated to canapes as we were left to wander and explore. There was a choice of Prosecco, or Nosseco, for the drivers like me, which we could sip whilst enjoying our complimentary treatment. I went for the relaxing hand massage, which was done using a gorgeous scented red cherry moisturising lotion.
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You don’t need to be visiting the salon to enjoy the delights of the cafe. They serve a light and nutritious superfood burrito bowl, or you can go Italian and try the delicious pizza, or indulge in a decadent sweet treat. Whether it’s frothy coffee, a wide selection of teas or luxury hot chocolate topped with a choice of treats, they have drinks for every taste.
They also offer traditional afternoon tea and bottomless bubbles.
I’d definitely recommend giving them a visit, even if it’s just to take photos of the absolutely stunning fixtures and fittings, because we all need a little inspo sometimes. Whatever you choose to do, I reckon you’ll leave feeling as gorgeous as your surroundings.
