Champneys Henlow

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It's always tempting in this nippy weather to avoid exercise outdoors. Fitness Manager, Al Phillips shares his thoughts around why you should try to stay active despite the chilliness! http://goo.gl/pfbFcE

Transport yourself to Henlow with recent guest Sarah's blog about her first #champneys spa visit!

Learn how can you form good habits and stick to them on our NEW blog. Our experts are going to sharing their tips and tricks with you over the coming weeks. This week, Wellbeing and Fitness Manager, Justin Edwards focuses on motivation! http://goo.gl/1wP4QM

Thank you for liking our page. To hear about all the latest Champneys news, health tips, events and more, please like our official main page Champneys Resorts

We loved having Sheridan Smith work out with us at Champneys Henlow http://goo.gl/k6VUvh. If you've caught the boot camp bug or are looking to detox in 2015 visit our website to see what we have to offer...

Still looking for a unique gift idea for this Christmas? There's still time…it's the final day of our #ChampneysAuction. Amazing lots up for grabs to raise money for The Pink Ribbon Foundation. Bid or buy before midnight! http://goo.gl/zTJNQE

Interested in joining our team at Henlow? We have a number of vacancies available and would love to hear from you http://goo.gl/0fQL6a

Thank you for liking our page. To hear about all the latest news, events and offers at Champneys, please like our official main page Champneys Resorts

Well done to the team at Henlow who hosted a bouncy castle team building event to raise money for Champneys Charity Foundation. They raised over £160 through the sales of tickets (and had a lot of bouncy fun too!)

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To hear about all the latest news, events and offers at Champneys, please like our official main page 'Champneys Resorts'

Wonderful day at Champneys Henlow yesterday. A lovely calm welcome with full information of how to start our day. We were given our flip flops and locker keys and took ourselves off for breakfast. A leisurely swim followed with the jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and hot room before our treatment of Thalassotherapy. A great experience of water jets in a pool of salts and minerals leaving the skin feeling soft and massaged - half price if booked online at the time of booking for the day. Due to the salts in the water, a shower is needed after! This took us to lunch which was incredible, something for everyone - all tastes catered for. After lunch, one of us went for a pedicure, another for a facial which left 2 of us to have a coffee and read in the exquisite conservatory. We all then met up for an hour on the garden sun-beds before our stretch and relax session. That completed our day absolutely perfectly! On checking out, we all purchased a half price voucher for another visit! Can't wait!

Stayed for the second time at Henlow Grange Champneys spa resort



The staff here are happy

Helpful and care for the guests

In all areas from reception Zoe Amber and Matt

To the restaurant staff Nicol Kelly and Zjannett

The spa beautician Nina who actually remembered from last year, and gave the most fantastic treatment



The refurbishment of the spa area was not a problem as the staff showed professionalism and made it easy and comfortable for us



This trip was to celebrate two friends 60th birthdays and to catch up

It was easy and relaxed

Everyone smiled and said good morning

I really like it here



I could go on

About the rooms the food the pool etc etc



Go take a look

You won’t be disappointed

I went to champneys Henlow yesterday with my mum and 2 aunties as a day pass. My day was filled of relaxation, food and treatments. I had booked in for a massage and drove the staff nuts trying to find products that I could use in the space of 30mins. I forgot to mention my allergies on booking. I have to say the staff where amazing and when unsure or needed me to double check as I am a person who likes to double check things on products I can use as had difficult experiences before at other places plus my allergies are hard to spell let alone say. Food was great. They where very busy but dealt with mine and another guests food allergies in a timely manner. Enjoyed my time and stay

Having read some of the negative comments posted before I arrived on Sunday (20th May) I was slightly apprehensive.

However, I could not fault my stay ... receiving a very warm welcome on arrival, the standard of room was what I expected. Staff were very attentive & nothing was too much trouble.

I left my bedroom window wide open as it was so warm (which was opposite the river) & this did invite in mosquitoes but your by a river & it’s to be expected this time of year.... it really didn’t bother me.

The only noise I heard at night was the sound of the Waterfall.

Yes, there were builders on site but the work was being undertaken with minimal disruption.

I enjoyed all the meals - breakfast & lunch is buffet style so you can eat as little or as much as you like. The calf liver on the menu last night was absolutely delicious.

We all have different experiences but mine was very positive & I will be returning in the future.

Thank you for a great time.

Sarah (Hall)

We are at the end of day 2 of a 3 day stay (Sunday-Tuesday)

I wonder if many of the previous negative reviews were Saturday guests, as even though we are mid July, in this beautiful summer, we have been able to enjoy 4 classes today, none of which were fully booked.

We have been able to enjoy the beds around the pool yesterday and today at various times, and have been able to use the outdoor sun loungers at various times.

Having read the 1* reviews, I have to say I’ve experience some of that too, especially the poor service in the restaurant (me & my husband just laugh, otherwise we’d cry!)

However, on balance, Henlow deserves 4* for the overall experience. The grounds are beautiful, food good, the old house interiors are stunning, and we’ve been able to enjoy and participate in everything we wanted to.

I did freak a little out on arrival when I discovered the enormous difference between the poolside facilities here and those at Forest Mere (5* plus an outdoor pool!) but they do have plans to add to them.

Rooms are tired and old fashioned and a little dirty, but I believe a refurb is on the cards too.

They can’t constantly refurbish and update everything all the time, it’s just not possible.

Thanks for a relaxing sunny stay.

Went with my daughter for the day spa but have been numerous times previously. Lot of areas have been renovated and are nice, pool area have new couches to lounge on but not very hygienic and are already looking stained. Restaurant has had major renovations although the food wasn’t up to the usual standards. Did four classes, used the gym and pool, ran out of towels in the shower area but overall a nice day. Went to book another return day stay only to find that they have put the price up an extra £30!!!!!

Didn’t rebook

We have been to a few Champneys hotels but this was our first time at Henlow.



On approach the venue looks amazing with a large carpark and grand entrance.



The vibe from the venue is very relaxed and casual so just bare that in mind.



The staff are very pleasant and attentive.



They are in the process of doing the the venue up as it is very tired looking and in the summer suffers very badly from another of flys in the venue.



There is no air conditioning so the venue does get very hot and sticky.



The rooms are adequate but without air conditioning the rooms are just too hot and if you open the window all the flys come in.



The housekeeping staff do their best.



The pool is nice and big and the saunas are nice but no outside hot tub which forest mere has.



The food is OK, but they could do with ability more variety and if you want any extras or anything else they charge you extra for example birthday gifts etc.



They do have a really nice cinema room which is awesome where they play movies on in the evening with complimentary cup of tea or coffee which is a nice touch.



The general manager and duty manager are very approachable and happy to help if you have a issue.



There are some lovely walks around which you can do or hire a bike. You can get a sun lounger to sun bath outside which is great aswell.

Waiting ages to check out ruins what has gone before, late running facial but ended on time, no hair conditioner in any of the shower facilities, reported but still the case 4 hours later.

2 of 5 showers in the pool area taped off out of use resulting in queueing to shower.

Excellent size pool, a liitle on the warm side for swimming but ideal for leisure dips, although the leaking roof is not a new feature.

Enjoyable lunch BUT my day ended with vomitting and headache, text book food poisoning and the only eating I had done all day was at the resort, I also have a strong constitution so definitely something amiss.

I visited with my best friend and her Mum. We were given day spa entry as Christmas presents. Our welcome was warm, and the lady who helped us at breakfast was very friendly. We were given a tour with it being our first visit. All the staff we had dealings with were very approachable and professional. There are areas where there is still work going on, and things look untidy. Having been to Centerparcs and Y spa for day visits, I think there is a lack of pool area seating at Champneys, and people don’t adhere to the rule of leaving beds free whilst not using them, the conservatory was just beautiful and praceful though. Enjoyed the activities we signed up for, (hoola hoop, and stretch and relax). Can’t fault the staff, but the work going on detracts from the overall atmosphere, we also heard people staying there complaining, so would quite possibly choose a different spa to visit next time.

Henlow is very tired and the spa area is far too small. Came here for the weekend as a change from Forest Mere and will never come back. Forest Mere has far more in the way of facilities and relaxation areas. Whilst there we made several complaints about the restaurant which was really not up to Champneys standards. There were never enough towels, there didn’t seem to be enough staff and check out was very long and busy. The treatments were lovely though - thank you to Gery and Kelly.

Champneys Henlow was my first ever spa experience but that was 20+ years ago. At the time it felt completely luxurious, but nowadays it does feel a bit tired and in need of a lift. My room was great but the carpets and walls in corridors are very tatty. I was fortunate to be able to join the classes I wanted but I know from a poor experience at Champneys Forest Mere last year that they do get booked up very quickly which can be very disappointing. The instructors and activities were good and special mention to Tina who was so friendly to all the guests. In the changing rooms I heard several people (who I think were members) complaining about changes to class schedules and not talking at all positively about some of the decisions being made at the spa. There is a sense that all is not well there. It is disappointing not to have more relaxation area around the pool. The large beds looked very inviting but there's only room for around 15 people in total. It seems the pool area is undergoing refurbishment and it could do with some plants to look more attractive. If you're visiting alone, as I was on this occasion, and you are considering dining at the Champneys table for dinner for company, I would reconsider. I expected to be joined by others but no-one else came along so I found myself all alone at a table for six!! Overall I had a lovely time but I was prepared for it not to be perfect and I did pay a fraction of the price as I get a discounted rate. I'm sorry to say I wouldn't pay the full price.

Brought my mum for her birthday. Check in good we arrived early and were able to get lunch. However room was not ready at 2pm and they had taken our luggage so missed being able to get changed for the 2pm activities we wanted to do. Pool area very busy between 2.30-4pm with nowhere to sit. I last came here 20 years ago and thalassotherapy area didn’t look like it had been updated since then and looked very tired. Towels and water cups both ran out in the spa area at times. Biggest issue for me though was the restaurant clearly understaffed and staff looked stressed in there (one in particular continuously rolling her eyes.) Haphazard approach to service, table on our left just finished eating starters when we arrived but ended up getting dessert after us, table on our right arrived after us and finished all 3 courses before us, had to ask several times for milk for tea at breakfast and ended up giving our leftovers to the table next to us who were having no luck getting their own! Food was very good just service very lacking. I want to balance though that we have had a nice time, definitely no fly issues and we were opposite the waterfall with windows open from when we arrived. Treatments were lovely and majority of the staff very friendly and helpful. Would come again but would be disappointed if I hadn’t got a good deal online.

Lovely from the outside but don’t let that fool you! Our room was very tired and in need of an urgent overhaul, this also goes for the spa(?) and the majority of areas in the hotel.



The jacuzzi was tepid and I’ve had a better steam room experience standing in my kitchen next to the kettle!



We finally gave up at dinner. Having to constantly remind staff that we were waiting to be served between each course and had to ask 3 times just to get some bread. After waiting 40 minutes to get our dessert the ice cream was literally liquid (maybe they ran out of ice!)



Needless to say we won’t be back.

We arrived at the retreat and headed to our room. (Which happens to be a disabled room. I’m 6ft tall and using the sink was interesting to say the least!) This was not to much of a problem and off we went to the pool. When we came back after swimming and treatments at around 4pm to get ready for dinner, our room was swarming with flies!!!! We called reception to see if they could do something once we had eventually got through to them they said they would sort it. After about 40 minutes a women that spoke only a couple of words of English arrived at our door with a can of bug spray! After some translation issues we finally figured out she wanted to spray the whole room and we should come back 20 minutes later! At this point we gave up trying to explain we needed to shower and get ready for dinner and went to the coffee bar to kill some time. Once there I asked for a glass of white wine and was shown the options. I picked the Pinot. Once the lady behind the bar realised there was less than half a glass in the bottle she started to look very confused. She then realised there was no more of this wine and went to top it up with a completely different wine!!! This amazed me and again I tried to decipher what she was saying as there was a language barrier. Finally we established I would just have a different glass and away we went. The stay continued like this until we gave up at breakfast and went home!

We understand this is a health retreat but the quality of food was poor. The majority or the meals you had to pay a additional cost for even though we had spent over £300 just to be there before any treatments or drinks as food was supposed to be included....... even the food at additional costs was still poor and we found it to be very bland.

There was building work going on during our stay and it was noisy through the night! One of the rooms along from us were actually moved to another room due to the noise from building works... they were moved at 4am!!



I am totally appalled at the quality of this retreat and will not be coming back, I also warn people that this is, by far one of the worst retreat and spas I’ve ever visited! There are plenty of other ones available that are without a doubt superior, and urge people to go else where.

Nothing healthy about this place for me! An overnight stay was gifted to us. It included use of the facilities for the afternoon, dinner, breakfast, lunch and use of the facilities until 4pm.we left at 10am the next morning as we were very disappointed. On arrival the place was appealing however we discovered it lacked atmosphere and was still undergoing refurbishment. The staff were pleasant enough but disorganised. If you want fitness as a main priority then okay but not a venue for rest and relaxation. The worst part were the flies and mosquitos they were everywhere, doors and windows had signs on them saying keep shut to keep the flies out! I was bitten very badly and the doctor has signed me off of work as a result for a week. Strong double doses of antihistamine tablets so sleeping a great deal and steroid antibiotic cream to prevent blood poisoning, happy days! I am in great discomfort with nasty infected bites and thoroughly miserable. Dinner was tasteless and we were forgotten so sat for over half an hour before our starter arrived. Bedroom was tired with no air conditioning or even a fan and you couldn't have the window open because of the flies and mosis. Fly spray had been left on the window sill but we would have been better off with a mosi net. On departure no one asked if we had enjoyed our stay or why we were leaving early. Never again. Also when I rang to book I didn't realise they charge a premium call rate so had a £14 telephone bill for just making my reservation. Awful never again! I feel so bad for the amount of money our darling daughter and son in law have paid out for us to have a special treat. Despite completing a survey to this effect there has been no contact or apology from Champneys Henlow, a disgrace.

I was looking forward to a lovely break paid for by my husband as a birthday present... many attempts at booking finally resulted in one available on the last week of the voucher, only to organise it and call back as requested to then be told no we are full... you pay a premium rate for holding for 45 minutes a time and they are less than helpful . At over £600 you can imagine my dismay... having read the other reviews of being tired and sad I am pretty glad I have asked for a refund...

I have been to Henlow many times and enjoyed my stays. So much so I have bought my sister vouchers for her birthday which is this weekend. I bought the vouchers online and was expecting to receive a nice box with ribbon detail as show on the website. I was also expecting the spa pictures on the voucher as selected on the purchase pages. I have received the vouchers today and I couldn’t be more disappointed! It’s not a box as shown on website. It’s a plain Branded card envelope with a black plastic card inside! It comes with an envelope but the voucher doesn’t fit the envelope!!! I bought not a inconsequential amount of vouchers so I would expect some ‘ceremony’ to the package. My message to my sister was printed onto an Avery label and stuck inside. The label wasn’t even straight!!! Not acceptable and I’m waiting for a response from the GM at Henlow.

I do not have the words to describe how incredibly horrific my stay at this so called “resort” was. One star is more than extremely generous!!! From start to finish it was an absolute joke. My option of this company has been internally tarnished! Despite having a horrid experience and sending many emails of complaint they have not even had the decency to reply. DISGUSTING.

Having booked an overnight stay for my Mum and Dad, which included lunch and dinner then breakfast the following day, I am so disappointed to hear that they did not enjoy their stay! I was so excited for them to go and have a lovely relaxing time at Champneys but their experience was far from it. Unless you’d like to spend your night in a hot stuffy room with no air con/fan, are unable to open your window due to the amount of flies/mosquitos and have to spray the room with cans left on the window sill instead, then avoid Champneys Henlow! My poor Mum was signed off work all last week because of infected mosi bites. At dinner, they were forgotten about and had to wait for over half an hour before the starter came out and when checking out early due to such a horrible time, weren’t asked if they’d had a nice stay or why they might be leaving at 10am when the package included use of facilities until 4pm. I expected so much more from Champneys! I thought I was treating my parents to a really lovely evening/weekend and instead we’ve all been left feeling nothing but disappointed and my Mum in a great deal of discomfort still! They stayed on Saturday 02.06 under the name Smith and I think someone really ought to call to apologise and discuss this further! I'd call you if it wasn't for the £14 charge my mum received just for making the reservation initially! Sort it out Champneys.

Wonderful day at Champneys Henlow yesterday. A lovely calm welcome with full information of how to start our day. We were given our flip flops and locker keys and took ourselves off for breakfast. A leisurely swim followed with the jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and hot room before our treatment of Thalassotherapy. A great experience of water jets in a pool of salts and minerals leaving the skin feeling soft and massaged - half price if booked online at the time of booking for the day. Due to the salts in the water, a shower is needed after! This took us to lunch which was incredible, something for everyone - all tastes catered for. After lunch, one of us went for a pedicure, another for a facial which left 2 of us to have a coffee and read in the exquisite conservatory. We all then met up for an hour on the garden sun-beds before our stretch and relax session. That completed our day absolutely perfectly! On checking out, we all purchased a half price voucher for another visit! Can't wait!

Stayed for the second time at Henlow Grange Champneys spa resort



The staff here are happy

Helpful and care for the guests

In all areas from reception Zoe Amber and Matt

To the restaurant staff Nicol Kelly and Zjannett

The spa beautician Nina who actually remembered from last year, and gave the most fantastic treatment



The refurbishment of the spa area was not a problem as the staff showed professionalism and made it easy and comfortable for us



This trip was to celebrate two friends 60th birthdays and to catch up

It was easy and relaxed

Everyone smiled and said good morning

I really like it here



I could go on

About the rooms the food the pool etc etc



Go take a look

You won’t be disappointed

I went to champneys Henlow yesterday with my mum and 2 aunties as a day pass. My day was filled of relaxation, food and treatments. I had booked in for a massage and drove the staff nuts trying to find products that I could use in the space of 30mins. I forgot to mention my allergies on booking. I have to say the staff where amazing and when unsure or needed me to double check as I am a person who likes to double check things on products I can use as had difficult experiences before at other places plus my allergies are hard to spell let alone say. Food was great. They where very busy but dealt with mine and another guests food allergies in a timely manner. Enjoyed my time and stay

Having read some of the negative comments posted before I arrived on Sunday (20th May) I was slightly apprehensive.

However, I could not fault my stay ... receiving a very warm welcome on arrival, the standard of room was what I expected. Staff were very attentive & nothing was too much trouble.

I left my bedroom window wide open as it was so warm (which was opposite the river) & this did invite in mosquitoes but your by a river & it’s to be expected this time of year.... it really didn’t bother me.

The only noise I heard at night was the sound of the Waterfall.

Yes, there were builders on site but the work was being undertaken with minimal disruption.

I enjoyed all the meals - breakfast & lunch is buffet style so you can eat as little or as much as you like. The calf liver on the menu last night was absolutely delicious.

We all have different experiences but mine was very positive & I will be returning in the future.

Thank you for a great time.

Sarah (Hall)

We are at the end of day 2 of a 3 day stay (Sunday-Tuesday)

I wonder if many of the previous negative reviews were Saturday guests, as even though we are mid July, in this beautiful summer, we have been able to enjoy 4 classes today, none of which were fully booked.

We have been able to enjoy the beds around the pool yesterday and today at various times, and have been able to use the outdoor sun loungers at various times.

Having read the 1* reviews, I have to say I’ve experience some of that too, especially the poor service in the restaurant (me & my husband just laugh, otherwise we’d cry!)

However, on balance, Henlow deserves 4* for the overall experience. The grounds are beautiful, food good, the old house interiors are stunning, and we’ve been able to enjoy and participate in everything we wanted to.

I did freak a little out on arrival when I discovered the enormous difference between the poolside facilities here and those at Forest Mere (5* plus an outdoor pool!) but they do have plans to add to them.

Rooms are tired and old fashioned and a little dirty, but I believe a refurb is on the cards too.

They can’t constantly refurbish and update everything all the time, it’s just not possible.

Thanks for a relaxing sunny stay.

Went with my daughter for the day spa but have been numerous times previously. Lot of areas have been renovated and are nice, pool area have new couches to lounge on but not very hygienic and are already looking stained. Restaurant has had major renovations although the food wasn’t up to the usual standards. Did four classes, used the gym and pool, ran out of towels in the shower area but overall a nice day. Went to book another return day stay only to find that they have put the price up an extra £30!!!!!

Didn’t rebook

We have been to a few Champneys hotels but this was our first time at Henlow.



On approach the venue looks amazing with a large carpark and grand entrance.



The vibe from the venue is very relaxed and casual so just bare that in mind.



The staff are very pleasant and attentive.



They are in the process of doing the the venue up as it is very tired looking and in the summer suffers very badly from another of flys in the venue.



There is no air conditioning so the venue does get very hot and sticky.



The rooms are adequate but without air conditioning the rooms are just too hot and if you open the window all the flys come in.



The housekeeping staff do their best.



The pool is nice and big and the saunas are nice but no outside hot tub which forest mere has.



The food is OK, but they could do with ability more variety and if you want any extras or anything else they charge you extra for example birthday gifts etc.



They do have a really nice cinema room which is awesome where they play movies on in the evening with complimentary cup of tea or coffee which is a nice touch.



The general manager and duty manager are very approachable and happy to help if you have a issue.



There are some lovely walks around which you can do or hire a bike. You can get a sun lounger to sun bath outside which is great aswell.

Waiting ages to check out ruins what has gone before, late running facial but ended on time, no hair conditioner in any of the shower facilities, reported but still the case 4 hours later.

2 of 5 showers in the pool area taped off out of use resulting in queueing to shower.

Excellent size pool, a liitle on the warm side for swimming but ideal for leisure dips, although the leaking roof is not a new feature.

Enjoyable lunch BUT my day ended with vomitting and headache, text book food poisoning and the only eating I had done all day was at the resort, I also have a strong constitution so definitely something amiss.

I visited with my best friend and her Mum. We were given day spa entry as Christmas presents. Our welcome was warm, and the lady who helped us at breakfast was very friendly. We were given a tour with it being our first visit. All the staff we had dealings with were very approachable and professional. There are areas where there is still work going on, and things look untidy. Having been to Centerparcs and Y spa for day visits, I think there is a lack of pool area seating at Champneys, and people don’t adhere to the rule of leaving beds free whilst not using them, the conservatory was just beautiful and praceful though. Enjoyed the activities we signed up for, (hoola hoop, and stretch and relax). Can’t fault the staff, but the work going on detracts from the overall atmosphere, we also heard people staying there complaining, so would quite possibly choose a different spa to visit next time.

Henlow is very tired and the spa area is far too small. Came here for the weekend as a change from Forest Mere and will never come back. Forest Mere has far more in the way of facilities and relaxation areas. Whilst there we made several complaints about the restaurant which was really not up to Champneys standards. There were never enough towels, there didn’t seem to be enough staff and check out was very long and busy. The treatments were lovely though - thank you to Gery and Kelly.

Champneys Henlow was my first ever spa experience but that was 20+ years ago. At the time it felt completely luxurious, but nowadays it does feel a bit tired and in need of a lift. My room was great but the carpets and walls in corridors are very tatty. I was fortunate to be able to join the classes I wanted but I know from a poor experience at Champneys Forest Mere last year that they do get booked up very quickly which can be very disappointing. The instructors and activities were good and special mention to Tina who was so friendly to all the guests. In the changing rooms I heard several people (who I think were members) complaining about changes to class schedules and not talking at all positively about some of the decisions being made at the spa. There is a sense that all is not well there. It is disappointing not to have more relaxation area around the pool. The large beds looked very inviting but there's only room for around 15 people in total. It seems the pool area is undergoing refurbishment and it could do with some plants to look more attractive. If you're visiting alone, as I was on this occasion, and you are considering dining at the Champneys table for dinner for company, I would reconsider. I expected to be joined by others but no-one else came along so I found myself all alone at a table for six!! Overall I had a lovely time but I was prepared for it not to be perfect and I did pay a fraction of the price as I get a discounted rate. I'm sorry to say I wouldn't pay the full price.

Brought my mum for her birthday. Check in good we arrived early and were able to get lunch. However room was not ready at 2pm and they had taken our luggage so missed being able to get changed for the 2pm activities we wanted to do. Pool area very busy between 2.30-4pm with nowhere to sit. I last came here 20 years ago and thalassotherapy area didn’t look like it had been updated since then and looked very tired. Towels and water cups both ran out in the spa area at times. Biggest issue for me though was the restaurant clearly understaffed and staff looked stressed in there (one in particular continuously rolling her eyes.) Haphazard approach to service, table on our left just finished eating starters when we arrived but ended up getting dessert after us, table on our right arrived after us and finished all 3 courses before us, had to ask several times for milk for tea at breakfast and ended up giving our leftovers to the table next to us who were having no luck getting their own! Food was very good just service very lacking. I want to balance though that we have had a nice time, definitely no fly issues and we were opposite the waterfall with windows open from when we arrived. Treatments were lovely and majority of the staff very friendly and helpful. Would come again but would be disappointed if I hadn’t got a good deal online.

Lovely from the outside but don’t let that fool you! Our room was very tired and in need of an urgent overhaul, this also goes for the spa(?) and the majority of areas in the hotel.



The jacuzzi was tepid and I’ve had a better steam room experience standing in my kitchen next to the kettle!



We finally gave up at dinner. Having to constantly remind staff that we were waiting to be served between each course and had to ask 3 times just to get some bread. After waiting 40 minutes to get our dessert the ice cream was literally liquid (maybe they ran out of ice!)



Needless to say we won’t be back.

We arrived at the retreat and headed to our room. (Which happens to be a disabled room. I’m 6ft tall and using the sink was interesting to say the least!) This was not to much of a problem and off we went to the pool. When we came back after swimming and treatments at around 4pm to get ready for dinner, our room was swarming with flies!!!! We called reception to see if they could do something once we had eventually got through to them they said they would sort it. After about 40 minutes a women that spoke only a couple of words of English arrived at our door with a can of bug spray! After some translation issues we finally figured out she wanted to spray the whole room and we should come back 20 minutes later! At this point we gave up trying to explain we needed to shower and get ready for dinner and went to the coffee bar to kill some time. Once there I asked for a glass of white wine and was shown the options. I picked the Pinot. Once the lady behind the bar realised there was less than half a glass in the bottle she started to look very confused. She then realised there was no more of this wine and went to top it up with a completely different wine!!! This amazed me and again I tried to decipher what she was saying as there was a language barrier. Finally we established I would just have a different glass and away we went. The stay continued like this until we gave up at breakfast and went home!

We understand this is a health retreat but the quality of food was poor. The majority or the meals you had to pay a additional cost for even though we had spent over £300 just to be there before any treatments or drinks as food was supposed to be included....... even the food at additional costs was still poor and we found it to be very bland.

There was building work going on during our stay and it was noisy through the night! One of the rooms along from us were actually moved to another room due to the noise from building works... they were moved at 4am!!



I am totally appalled at the quality of this retreat and will not be coming back, I also warn people that this is, by far one of the worst retreat and spas I’ve ever visited! There are plenty of other ones available that are without a doubt superior, and urge people to go else where.

Nothing healthy about this place for me! An overnight stay was gifted to us. It included use of the facilities for the afternoon, dinner, breakfast, lunch and use of the facilities until 4pm.we left at 10am the next morning as we were very disappointed. On arrival the place was appealing however we discovered it lacked atmosphere and was still undergoing refurbishment. The staff were pleasant enough but disorganised. If you want fitness as a main priority then okay but not a venue for rest and relaxation. The worst part were the flies and mosquitos they were everywhere, doors and windows had signs on them saying keep shut to keep the flies out! I was bitten very badly and the doctor has signed me off of work as a result for a week. Strong double doses of antihistamine tablets so sleeping a great deal and steroid antibiotic cream to prevent blood poisoning, happy days! I am in great discomfort with nasty infected bites and thoroughly miserable. Dinner was tasteless and we were forgotten so sat for over half an hour before our starter arrived. Bedroom was tired with no air conditioning or even a fan and you couldn't have the window open because of the flies and mosis. Fly spray had been left on the window sill but we would have been better off with a mosi net. On departure no one asked if we had enjoyed our stay or why we were leaving early. Never again. Also when I rang to book I didn't realise they charge a premium call rate so had a £14 telephone bill for just making my reservation. Awful never again! I feel so bad for the amount of money our darling daughter and son in law have paid out for us to have a special treat. Despite completing a survey to this effect there has been no contact or apology from Champneys Henlow, a disgrace.

I was looking forward to a lovely break paid for by my husband as a birthday present... many attempts at booking finally resulted in one available on the last week of the voucher, only to organise it and call back as requested to then be told no we are full... you pay a premium rate for holding for 45 minutes a time and they are less than helpful . At over £600 you can imagine my dismay... having read the other reviews of being tired and sad I am pretty glad I have asked for a refund...

I have been to Henlow many times and enjoyed my stays. So much so I have bought my sister vouchers for her birthday which is this weekend. I bought the vouchers online and was expecting to receive a nice box with ribbon detail as show on the website. I was also expecting the spa pictures on the voucher as selected on the purchase pages. I have received the vouchers today and I couldn’t be more disappointed! It’s not a box as shown on website. It’s a plain Branded card envelope with a black plastic card inside! It comes with an envelope but the voucher doesn’t fit the envelope!!! I bought not a inconsequential amount of vouchers so I would expect some ‘ceremony’ to the package. My message to my sister was printed onto an Avery label and stuck inside. The label wasn’t even straight!!! Not acceptable and I’m waiting for a response from the GM at Henlow.

I do not have the words to describe how incredibly horrific my stay at this so called “resort” was. One star is more than extremely generous!!! From start to finish it was an absolute joke. My option of this company has been internally tarnished! Despite having a horrid experience and sending many emails of complaint they have not even had the decency to reply. DISGUSTING.

Having booked an overnight stay for my Mum and Dad, which included lunch and dinner then breakfast the following day, I am so disappointed to hear that they did not enjoy their stay! I was so excited for them to go and have a lovely relaxing time at Champneys but their experience was far from it. Unless you’d like to spend your night in a hot stuffy room with no air con/fan, are unable to open your window due to the amount of flies/mosquitos and have to spray the room with cans left on the window sill instead, then avoid Champneys Henlow! My poor Mum was signed off work all last week because of infected mosi bites. At dinner, they were forgotten about and had to wait for over half an hour before the starter came out and when checking out early due to such a horrible time, weren’t asked if they’d had a nice stay or why they might be leaving at 10am when the package included use of facilities until 4pm. I expected so much more from Champneys! I thought I was treating my parents to a really lovely evening/weekend and instead we’ve all been left feeling nothing but disappointed and my Mum in a great deal of discomfort still! They stayed on Saturday 02.06 under the name Smith and I think someone really ought to call to apologise and discuss this further! I'd call you if it wasn't for the £14 charge my mum received just for making the reservation initially! Sort it out Champneys.

Wonderful day at Champneys Henlow yesterday. A lovely calm welcome with full information of how to start our day. We were given our flip flops and locker keys and took ourselves off for breakfast. A leisurely swim followed with the jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and hot room before our treatment of Thalassotherapy. A great experience of water jets in a pool of salts and minerals leaving the skin feeling soft and massaged - half price if booked online at the time of booking for the day. Due to the salts in the water, a shower is needed after! This took us to lunch which was incredible, something for everyone - all tastes catered for. After lunch, one of us went for a pedicure, another for a facial which left 2 of us to have a coffee and read in the exquisite conservatory. We all then met up for an hour on the garden sun-beds before our stretch and relax session. That completed our day absolutely perfectly! On checking out, we all purchased a half price voucher for another visit! Can't wait!

Stayed for the second time at Henlow Grange Champneys spa resort



The staff here are happy

Helpful and care for the guests

In all areas from reception Zoe Amber and Matt

To the restaurant staff Nicol Kelly and Zjannett

The spa beautician Nina who actually remembered from last year, and gave the most fantastic treatment



The refurbishment of the spa area was not a problem as the staff showed professionalism and made it easy and comfortable for us



This trip was to celebrate two friends 60th birthdays and to catch up

It was easy and relaxed

Everyone smiled and said good morning

I really like it here



I could go on

About the rooms the food the pool etc etc



Go take a look

You won’t be disappointed

I went to champneys Henlow yesterday with my mum and 2 aunties as a day pass. My day was filled of relaxation, food and treatments. I had booked in for a massage and drove the staff nuts trying to find products that I could use in the space of 30mins. I forgot to mention my allergies on booking. I have to say the staff where amazing and when unsure or needed me to double check as I am a person who likes to double check things on products I can use as had difficult experiences before at other places plus my allergies are hard to spell let alone say. Food was great. They where very busy but dealt with mine and another guests food allergies in a timely manner. Enjoyed my time and stay

Having read some of the negative comments posted before I arrived on Sunday (20th May) I was slightly apprehensive.

However, I could not fault my stay ... receiving a very warm welcome on arrival, the standard of room was what I expected. Staff were very attentive & nothing was too much trouble.

I left my bedroom window wide open as it was so warm (which was opposite the river) & this did invite in mosquitoes but your by a river & it’s to be expected this time of year.... it really didn’t bother me.

The only noise I heard at night was the sound of the Waterfall.

Yes, there were builders on site but the work was being undertaken with minimal disruption.

I enjoyed all the meals - breakfast & lunch is buffet style so you can eat as little or as much as you like. The calf liver on the menu last night was absolutely delicious.

We all have different experiences but mine was very positive & I will be returning in the future.

Thank you for a great time.

Sarah (Hall)

We are at the end of day 2 of a 3 day stay (Sunday-Tuesday)

I wonder if many of the previous negative reviews were Saturday guests, as even though we are mid July, in this beautiful summer, we have been able to enjoy 4 classes today, none of which were fully booked.

We have been able to enjoy the beds around the pool yesterday and today at various times, and have been able to use the outdoor sun loungers at various times.

Having read the 1* reviews, I have to say I’ve experience some of that too, especially the poor service in the restaurant (me & my husband just laugh, otherwise we’d cry!)

However, on balance, Henlow deserves 4* for the overall experience. The grounds are beautiful, food good, the old house interiors are stunning, and we’ve been able to enjoy and participate in everything we wanted to.

I did freak a little out on arrival when I discovered the enormous difference between the poolside facilities here and those at Forest Mere (5* plus an outdoor pool!) but they do have plans to add to them.

Rooms are tired and old fashioned and a little dirty, but I believe a refurb is on the cards too.

They can’t constantly refurbish and update everything all the time, it’s just not possible.

Thanks for a relaxing sunny stay.

Went with my daughter for the day spa but have been numerous times previously. Lot of areas have been renovated and are nice, pool area have new couches to lounge on but not very hygienic and are already looking stained. Restaurant has had major renovations although the food wasn’t up to the usual standards. Did four classes, used the gym and pool, ran out of towels in the shower area but overall a nice day. Went to book another return day stay only to find that they have put the price up an extra £30!!!!!

Didn’t rebook

We have been to a few Champneys hotels but this was our first time at Henlow.



On approach the venue looks amazing with a large carpark and grand entrance.



The vibe from the venue is very relaxed and casual so just bare that in mind.



The staff are very pleasant and attentive.



They are in the process of doing the the venue up as it is very tired looking and in the summer suffers very badly from another of flys in the venue.



There is no air conditioning so the venue does get very hot and sticky.



The rooms are adequate but without air conditioning the rooms are just too hot and if you open the window all the flys come in.



The housekeeping staff do their best.



The pool is nice and big and the saunas are nice but no outside hot tub which forest mere has.



The food is OK, but they could do with ability more variety and if you want any extras or anything else they charge you extra for example birthday gifts etc.



They do have a really nice cinema room which is awesome where they play movies on in the evening with complimentary cup of tea or coffee which is a nice touch.



The general manager and duty manager are very approachable and happy to help if you have a issue.



There are some lovely walks around which you can do or hire a bike. You can get a sun lounger to sun bath outside which is great aswell.

Waiting ages to check out ruins what has gone before, late running facial but ended on time, no hair conditioner in any of the shower facilities, reported but still the case 4 hours later.

2 of 5 showers in the pool area taped off out of use resulting in queueing to shower.

Excellent size pool, a liitle on the warm side for swimming but ideal for leisure dips, although the leaking roof is not a new feature.

Enjoyable lunch BUT my day ended with vomitting and headache, text book food poisoning and the only eating I had done all day was at the resort, I also have a strong constitution so definitely something amiss.

I visited with my best friend and her Mum. We were given day spa entry as Christmas presents. Our welcome was warm, and the lady who helped us at breakfast was very friendly. We were given a tour with it being our first visit. All the staff we had dealings with were very approachable and professional. There are areas where there is still work going on, and things look untidy. Having been to Centerparcs and Y spa for day visits, I think there is a lack of pool area seating at Champneys, and people don’t adhere to the rule of leaving beds free whilst not using them, the conservatory was just beautiful and praceful though. Enjoyed the activities we signed up for, (hoola hoop, and stretch and relax). Can’t fault the staff, but the work going on detracts from the overall atmosphere, we also heard people staying there complaining, so would quite possibly choose a different spa to visit next time.

Henlow is very tired and the spa area is far too small. Came here for the weekend as a change from Forest Mere and will never come back. Forest Mere has far more in the way of facilities and relaxation areas. Whilst there we made several complaints about the restaurant which was really not up to Champneys standards. There were never enough towels, there didn’t seem to be enough staff and check out was very long and busy. The treatments were lovely though - thank you to Gery and Kelly.

Champneys Henlow was my first ever spa experience but that was 20+ years ago. At the time it felt completely luxurious, but nowadays it does feel a bit tired and in need of a lift. My room was great but the carpets and walls in corridors are very tatty. I was fortunate to be able to join the classes I wanted but I know from a poor experience at Champneys Forest Mere last year that they do get booked up very quickly which can be very disappointing. The instructors and activities were good and special mention to Tina who was so friendly to all the guests. In the changing rooms I heard several people (who I think were members) complaining about changes to class schedules and not talking at all positively about some of the decisions being made at the spa. There is a sense that all is not well there. It is disappointing not to have more relaxation area around the pool. The large beds looked very inviting but there's only room for around 15 people in total. It seems the pool area is undergoing refurbishment and it could do with some plants to look more attractive. If you're visiting alone, as I was on this occasion, and you are considering dining at the Champneys table for dinner for company, I would reconsider. I expected to be joined by others but no-one else came along so I found myself all alone at a table for six!! Overall I had a lovely time but I was prepared for it not to be perfect and I did pay a fraction of the price as I get a discounted rate. I'm sorry to say I wouldn't pay the full price.

Brought my mum for her birthday. Check in good we arrived early and were able to get lunch. However room was not ready at 2pm and they had taken our luggage so missed being able to get changed for the 2pm activities we wanted to do. Pool area very busy between 2.30-4pm with nowhere to sit. I last came here 20 years ago and thalassotherapy area didn’t look like it had been updated since then and looked very tired. Towels and water cups both ran out in the spa area at times. Biggest issue for me though was the restaurant clearly understaffed and staff looked stressed in there (one in particular continuously rolling her eyes.) Haphazard approach to service, table on our left just finished eating starters when we arrived but ended up getting dessert after us, table on our right arrived after us and finished all 3 courses before us, had to ask several times for milk for tea at breakfast and ended up giving our leftovers to the table next to us who were having no luck getting their own! Food was very good just service very lacking. I want to balance though that we have had a nice time, definitely no fly issues and we were opposite the waterfall with windows open from when we arrived. Treatments were lovely and majority of the staff very friendly and helpful. Would come again but would be disappointed if I hadn’t got a good deal online.

Lovely from the outside but don’t let that fool you! Our room was very tired and in need of an urgent overhaul, this also goes for the spa(?) and the majority of areas in the hotel.



The jacuzzi was tepid and I’ve had a better steam room experience standing in my kitchen next to the kettle!



We finally gave up at dinner. Having to constantly remind staff that we were waiting to be served between each course and had to ask 3 times just to get some bread. After waiting 40 minutes to get our dessert the ice cream was literally liquid (maybe they ran out of ice!)



Needless to say we won’t be back.

We arrived at the retreat and headed to our room. (Which happens to be a disabled room. I’m 6ft tall and using the sink was interesting to say the least!) This was not to much of a problem and off we went to the pool. When we came back after swimming and treatments at around 4pm to get ready for dinner, our room was swarming with flies!!!! We called reception to see if they could do something once we had eventually got through to them they said they would sort it. After about 40 minutes a women that spoke only a couple of words of English arrived at our door with a can of bug spray! After some translation issues we finally figured out she wanted to spray the whole room and we should come back 20 minutes later! At this point we gave up trying to explain we needed to shower and get ready for dinner and went to the coffee bar to kill some time. Once there I asked for a glass of white wine and was shown the options. I picked the Pinot. Once the lady behind the bar realised there was less than half a glass in the bottle she started to look very confused. She then realised there was no more of this wine and went to top it up with a completely different wine!!! This amazed me and again I tried to decipher what she was saying as there was a language barrier. Finally we established I would just have a different glass and away we went. The stay continued like this until we gave up at breakfast and went home!

We understand this is a health retreat but the quality of food was poor. The majority or the meals you had to pay a additional cost for even though we had spent over £300 just to be there before any treatments or drinks as food was supposed to be included....... even the food at additional costs was still poor and we found it to be very bland.

There was building work going on during our stay and it was noisy through the night! One of the rooms along from us were actually moved to another room due to the noise from building works... they were moved at 4am!!



I am totally appalled at the quality of this retreat and will not be coming back, I also warn people that this is, by far one of the worst retreat and spas I’ve ever visited! There are plenty of other ones available that are without a doubt superior, and urge people to go else where.

Nothing healthy about this place for me! An overnight stay was gifted to us. It included use of the facilities for the afternoon, dinner, breakfast, lunch and use of the facilities until 4pm.we left at 10am the next morning as we were very disappointed. On arrival the place was appealing however we discovered it lacked atmosphere and was still undergoing refurbishment. The staff were pleasant enough but disorganised. If you want fitness as a main priority then okay but not a venue for rest and relaxation. The worst part were the flies and mosquitos they were everywhere, doors and windows had signs on them saying keep shut to keep the flies out! I was bitten very badly and the doctor has signed me off of work as a result for a week. Strong double doses of antihistamine tablets so sleeping a great deal and steroid antibiotic cream to prevent blood poisoning, happy days! I am in great discomfort with nasty infected bites and thoroughly miserable. Dinner was tasteless and we were forgotten so sat for over half an hour before our starter arrived. Bedroom was tired with no air conditioning or even a fan and you couldn't have the window open because of the flies and mosis. Fly spray had been left on the window sill but we would have been better off with a mosi net. On departure no one asked if we had enjoyed our stay or why we were leaving early. Never again. Also when I rang to book I didn't realise they charge a premium call rate so had a £14 telephone bill for just making my reservation. Awful never again! I feel so bad for the amount of money our darling daughter and son in law have paid out for us to have a special treat. Despite completing a survey to this effect there has been no contact or apology from Champneys Henlow, a disgrace.

I was looking forward to a lovely break paid for by my husband as a birthday present... many attempts at booking finally resulted in one available on the last week of the voucher, only to organise it and call back as requested to then be told no we are full... you pay a premium rate for holding for 45 minutes a time and they are less than helpful . At over £600 you can imagine my dismay... having read the other reviews of being tired and sad I am pretty glad I have asked for a refund...

I have been to Henlow many times and enjoyed my stays. So much so I have bought my sister vouchers for her birthday which is this weekend. I bought the vouchers online and was expecting to receive a nice box with ribbon detail as show on the website. I was also expecting the spa pictures on the voucher as selected on the purchase pages. I have received the vouchers today and I couldn’t be more disappointed! It’s not a box as shown on website. It’s a plain Branded card envelope with a black plastic card inside! It comes with an envelope but the voucher doesn’t fit the envelope!!! I bought not a inconsequential amount of vouchers so I would expect some ‘ceremony’ to the package. My message to my sister was printed onto an Avery label and stuck inside. The label wasn’t even straight!!! Not acceptable and I’m waiting for a response from the GM at Henlow.

I do not have the words to describe how incredibly horrific my stay at this so called “resort” was. One star is more than extremely generous!!! From start to finish it was an absolute joke. My option of this company has been internally tarnished! Despite having a horrid experience and sending many emails of complaint they have not even had the decency to reply. DISGUSTING.

Having booked an overnight stay for my Mum and Dad, which included lunch and dinner then breakfast the following day, I am so disappointed to hear that they did not enjoy their stay! I was so excited for them to go and have a lovely relaxing time at Champneys but their experience was far from it. Unless you’d like to spend your night in a hot stuffy room with no air con/fan, are unable to open your window due to the amount of flies/mosquitos and have to spray the room with cans left on the window sill instead, then avoid Champneys Henlow! My poor Mum was signed off work all last week because of infected mosi bites. At dinner, they were forgotten about and had to wait for over half an hour before the starter came out and when checking out early due to such a horrible time, weren’t asked if they’d had a nice stay or why they might be leaving at 10am when the package included use of facilities until 4pm. I expected so much more from Champneys! I thought I was treating my parents to a really lovely evening/weekend and instead we’ve all been left feeling nothing but disappointed and my Mum in a great deal of discomfort still! They stayed on Saturday 02.06 under the name Smith and I think someone really ought to call to apologise and discuss this further! I'd call you if it wasn't for the £14 charge my mum received just for making the reservation initially! Sort it out Champneys.

Wonderful day at Champneys Henlow yesterday. A lovely calm welcome with full information of how to start our day. We were given our flip flops and locker keys and took ourselves off for breakfast. A leisurely swim followed with the jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and hot room before our treatment of Thalassotherapy. A great experience of water jets in a pool of salts and minerals leaving the skin feeling soft and massaged - half price if booked online at the time of booking for the day. Due to the salts in the water, a shower is needed after! This took us to lunch which was incredible, something for everyone - all tastes catered for. After lunch, one of us went for a pedicure, another for a facial which left 2 of us to have a coffee and read in the exquisite conservatory. We all then met up for an hour on the garden sun-beds before our stretch and relax session. That completed our day absolutely perfectly! On checking out, we all purchased a half price voucher for another visit! Can't wait!

Stayed for the second time at Henlow Grange Champneys spa resort



The staff here are happy

Helpful and care for the guests

In all areas from reception Zoe Amber and Matt

To the restaurant staff Nicol Kelly and Zjannett

The spa beautician Nina who actually remembered from last year, and gave the most fantastic treatment



The refurbishment of the spa area was not a problem as the staff showed professionalism and made it easy and comfortable for us



This trip was to celebrate two friends 60th birthdays and to catch up

It was easy and relaxed

Everyone smiled and said good morning

I really like it here



I could go on

About the rooms the food the pool etc etc



Go take a look

You won’t be disappointed

I went to champneys Henlow yesterday with my mum and 2 aunties as a day pass. My day was filled of relaxation, food and treatments. I had booked in for a massage and drove the staff nuts trying to find products that I could use in the space of 30mins. I forgot to mention my allergies on booking. I have to say the staff where amazing and when unsure or needed me to double check as I am a person who likes to double check things on products I can use as had difficult experiences before at other places plus my allergies are hard to spell let alone say. Food was great. They where very busy but dealt with mine and another guests food allergies in a timely manner. Enjoyed my time and stay

Having read some of the negative comments posted before I arrived on Sunday (20th May) I was slightly apprehensive.

However, I could not fault my stay ... receiving a very warm welcome on arrival, the standard of room was what I expected. Staff were very attentive & nothing was too much trouble.

I left my bedroom window wide open as it was so warm (which was opposite the river) & this did invite in mosquitoes but your by a river & it’s to be expected this time of year.... it really didn’t bother me.

The only noise I heard at night was the sound of the Waterfall.

Yes, there were builders on site but the work was being undertaken with minimal disruption.

I enjoyed all the meals - breakfast & lunch is buffet style so you can eat as little or as much as you like. The calf liver on the menu last night was absolutely delicious.

We all have different experiences but mine was very positive & I will be returning in the future.

Thank you for a great time.

Sarah (Hall)

We are at the end of day 2 of a 3 day stay (Sunday-Tuesday)

I wonder if many of the previous negative reviews were Saturday guests, as even though we are mid July, in this beautiful summer, we have been able to enjoy 4 classes today, none of which were fully booked.

We have been able to enjoy the beds around the pool yesterday and today at various times, and have been able to use the outdoor sun loungers at various times.

Having read the 1* reviews, I have to say I’ve experience some of that too, especially the poor service in the restaurant (me & my husband just laugh, otherwise we’d cry!)

However, on balance, Henlow deserves 4* for the overall experience. The grounds are beautiful, food good, the old house interiors are stunning, and we’ve been able to enjoy and participate in everything we wanted to.

I did freak a little out on arrival when I discovered the enormous difference between the poolside facilities here and those at Forest Mere (5* plus an outdoor pool!) but they do have plans to add to them.

Rooms are tired and old fashioned and a little dirty, but I believe a refurb is on the cards too.

They can’t constantly refurbish and update everything all the time, it’s just not possible.

Thanks for a relaxing sunny stay.

Went with my daughter for the day spa but have been numerous times previously. Lot of areas have been renovated and are nice, pool area have new couches to lounge on but not very hygienic and are already looking stained. Restaurant has had major renovations although the food wasn’t up to the usual standards. Did four classes, used the gym and pool, ran out of towels in the shower area but overall a nice day. Went to book another return day stay only to find that they have put the price up an extra £30!!!!!

Didn’t rebook

We have been to a few Champneys hotels but this was our first time at Henlow.



On approach the venue looks amazing with a large carpark and grand entrance.



The vibe from the venue is very relaxed and casual so just bare that in mind.



The staff are very pleasant and attentive.



They are in the process of doing the the venue up as it is very tired looking and in the summer suffers very badly from another of flys in the venue.



There is no air conditioning so the venue does get very hot and sticky.



The rooms are adequate but without air conditioning the rooms are just too hot and if you open the window all the flys come in.



The housekeeping staff do their best.



The pool is nice and big and the saunas are nice but no outside hot tub which forest mere has.



The food is OK, but they could do with ability more variety and if you want any extras or anything else they charge you extra for example birthday gifts etc.



They do have a really nice cinema room which is awesome where they play movies on in the evening with complimentary cup of tea or coffee which is a nice touch.



The general manager and duty manager are very approachable and happy to help if you have a issue.



There are some lovely walks around which you can do or hire a bike. You can get a sun lounger to sun bath outside which is great aswell.

Waiting ages to check out ruins what has gone before, late running facial but ended on time, no hair conditioner in any of the shower facilities, reported but still the case 4 hours later.

2 of 5 showers in the pool area taped off out of use resulting in queueing to shower.

Excellent size pool, a liitle on the warm side for swimming but ideal for leisure dips, although the leaking roof is not a new feature.

Enjoyable lunch BUT my day ended with vomitting and headache, text book food poisoning and the only eating I had done all day was at the resort, I also have a strong constitution so definitely something amiss.

I visited with my best friend and her Mum. We were given day spa entry as Christmas presents. Our welcome was warm, and the lady who helped us at breakfast was very friendly. We were given a tour with it being our first visit. All the staff we had dealings with were very approachable and professional. There are areas where there is still work going on, and things look untidy. Having been to Centerparcs and Y spa for day visits, I think there is a lack of pool area seating at Champneys, and people don’t adhere to the rule of leaving beds free whilst not using them, the conservatory was just beautiful and praceful though. Enjoyed the activities we signed up for, (hoola hoop, and stretch and relax). Can’t fault the staff, but the work going on detracts from the overall atmosphere, we also heard people staying there complaining, so would quite possibly choose a different spa to visit next time.

Henlow is very tired and the spa area is far too small. Came here for the weekend as a change from Forest Mere and will never come back. Forest Mere has far more in the way of facilities and relaxation areas. Whilst there we made several complaints about the restaurant which was really not up to Champneys standards. There were never enough towels, there didn’t seem to be enough staff and check out was very long and busy. The treatments were lovely though - thank you to Gery and Kelly.

Champneys Henlow was my first ever spa experience but that was 20+ years ago. At the time it felt completely luxurious, but nowadays it does feel a bit tired and in need of a lift. My room was great but the carpets and walls in corridors are very tatty. I was fortunate to be able to join the classes I wanted but I know from a poor experience at Champneys Forest Mere last year that they do get booked up very quickly which can be very disappointing. The instructors and activities were good and special mention to Tina who was so friendly to all the guests. In the changing rooms I heard several people (who I think were members) complaining about changes to class schedules and not talking at all positively about some of the decisions being made at the spa. There is a sense that all is not well there. It is disappointing not to have more relaxation area around the pool. The large beds looked very inviting but there's only room for around 15 people in total. It seems the pool area is undergoing refurbishment and it could do with some plants to look more attractive. If you're visiting alone, as I was on this occasion, and you are considering dining at the Champneys table for dinner for company, I would reconsider. I expected to be joined by others but no-one else came along so I found myself all alone at a table for six!! Overall I had a lovely time but I was prepared for it not to be perfect and I did pay a fraction of the price as I get a discounted rate. I'm sorry to say I wouldn't pay the full price.

Brought my mum for her birthday. Check in good we arrived early and were able to get lunch. However room was not ready at 2pm and they had taken our luggage so missed being able to get changed for the 2pm activities we wanted to do. Pool area very busy between 2.30-4pm with nowhere to sit. I last came here 20 years ago and thalassotherapy area didn’t look like it had been updated since then and looked very tired. Towels and water cups both ran out in the spa area at times. Biggest issue for me though was the restaurant clearly understaffed and staff looked stressed in there (one in particular continuously rolling her eyes.) Haphazard approach to service, table on our left just finished eating starters when we arrived but ended up getting dessert after us, table on our right arrived after us and finished all 3 courses before us, had to ask several times for milk for tea at breakfast and ended up giving our leftovers to the table next to us who were having no luck getting their own! Food was very good just service very lacking. I want to balance though that we have had a nice time, definitely no fly issues and we were opposite the waterfall with windows open from when we arrived. Treatments were lovely and majority of the staff very friendly and helpful. Would come again but would be disappointed if I hadn’t got a good deal online.

Lovely from the outside but don’t let that fool you! Our room was very tired and in need of an urgent overhaul, this also goes for the spa(?) and the majority of areas in the hotel.



The jacuzzi was tepid and I’ve had a better steam room experience standing in my kitchen next to the kettle!



We finally gave up at dinner. Having to constantly remind staff that we were waiting to be served between each course and had to ask 3 times just to get some bread. After waiting 40 minutes to get our dessert the ice cream was literally liquid (maybe they ran out of ice!)



Needless to say we won’t be back.

We arrived at the retreat and headed to our room. (Which happens to be a disabled room. I’m 6ft tall and using the sink was interesting to say the least!) This was not to much of a problem and off we went to the pool. When we came back after swimming and treatments at around 4pm to get ready for dinner, our room was swarming with flies!!!! We called reception to see if they could do something once we had eventually got through to them they said they would sort it. After about 40 minutes a women that spoke only a couple of words of English arrived at our door with a can of bug spray! After some translation issues we finally figured out she wanted to spray the whole room and we should come back 20 minutes later! At this point we gave up trying to explain we needed to shower and get ready for dinner and went to the coffee bar to kill some time. Once there I asked for a glass of white wine and was shown the options. I picked the Pinot. Once the lady behind the bar realised there was less than half a glass in the bottle she started to look very confused. She then realised there was no more of this wine and went to top it up with a completely different wine!!! This amazed me and again I tried to decipher what she was saying as there was a language barrier. Finally we established I would just have a different glass and away we went. The stay continued like this until we gave up at breakfast and went home!

We understand this is a health retreat but the quality of food was poor. The majority or the meals you had to pay a additional cost for even though we had spent over £300 just to be there before any treatments or drinks as food was supposed to be included....... even the food at additional costs was still poor and we found it to be very bland.

There was building work going on during our stay and it was noisy through the night! One of the rooms along from us were actually moved to another room due to the noise from building works... they were moved at 4am!!



I am totally appalled at the quality of this retreat and will not be coming back, I also warn people that this is, by far one of the worst retreat and spas I’ve ever visited! There are plenty of other ones available that are without a doubt superior, and urge people to go else where.

Nothing healthy about this place for me! An overnight stay was gifted to us. It included use of the facilities for the afternoon, dinner, breakfast, lunch and use of the facilities until 4pm.we left at 10am the next morning as we were very disappointed. On arrival the place was appealing however we discovered it lacked atmosphere and was still undergoing refurbishment. The staff were pleasant enough but disorganised. If you want fitness as a main priority then okay but not a venue for rest and relaxation. The worst part were the flies and mosquitos they were everywhere, doors and windows had signs on them saying keep shut to keep the flies out! I was bitten very badly and the doctor has signed me off of work as a result for a week. Strong double doses of antihistamine tablets so sleeping a great deal and steroid antibiotic cream to prevent blood poisoning, happy days! I am in great discomfort with nasty infected bites and thoroughly miserable. Dinner was tasteless and we were forgotten so sat for over half an hour before our starter arrived. Bedroom was tired with no air conditioning or even a fan and you couldn't have the window open because of the flies and mosis. Fly spray had been left on the window sill but we would have been better off with a mosi net. On departure no one asked if we had enjoyed our stay or why we were leaving early. Never again. Also when I rang to book I didn't realise they charge a premium call rate so had a £14 telephone bill for just making my reservation. Awful never again! I feel so bad for the amount of money our darling daughter and son in law have paid out for us to have a special treat. Despite completing a survey to this effect there has been no contact or apology from Champneys Henlow, a disgrace.

I was looking forward to a lovely break paid for by my husband as a birthday present... many attempts at booking finally resulted in one available on the last week of the voucher, only to organise it and call back as requested to then be told no we are full... you pay a premium rate for holding for 45 minutes a time and they are less than helpful . At over £600 you can imagine my dismay... having read the other reviews of being tired and sad I am pretty glad I have asked for a refund...

I have been to Henlow many times and enjoyed my stays. So much so I have bought my sister vouchers for her birthday which is this weekend. I bought the vouchers online and was expecting to receive a nice box with ribbon detail as show on the website. I was also expecting the spa pictures on the voucher as selected on the purchase pages. I have received the vouchers today and I couldn’t be more disappointed! It’s not a box as shown on website. It’s a plain Branded card envelope with a black plastic card inside! It comes with an envelope but the voucher doesn’t fit the envelope!!! I bought not a inconsequential amount of vouchers so I would expect some ‘ceremony’ to the package. My message to my sister was printed onto an Avery label and stuck inside. The label wasn’t even straight!!! Not acceptable and I’m waiting for a response from the GM at Henlow.

I do not have the words to describe how incredibly horrific my stay at this so called “resort” was. One star is more than extremely generous!!! From start to finish it was an absolute joke. My option of this company has been internally tarnished! Despite having a horrid experience and sending many emails of complaint they have not even had the decency to reply. DISGUSTING.

Having booked an overnight stay for my Mum and Dad, which included lunch and dinner then breakfast the following day, I am so disappointed to hear that they did not enjoy their stay! I was so excited for them to go and have a lovely relaxing time at Champneys but their experience was far from it. Unless you’d like to spend your night in a hot stuffy room with no air con/fan, are unable to open your window due to the amount of flies/mosquitos and have to spray the room with cans left on the window sill instead, then avoid Champneys Henlow! My poor Mum was signed off work all last week because of infected mosi bites. At dinner, they were forgotten about and had to wait for over half an hour before the starter came out and when checking out early due to such a horrible time, weren’t asked if they’d had a nice stay or why they might be leaving at 10am when the package included use of facilities until 4pm. I expected so much more from Champneys! I thought I was treating my parents to a really lovely evening/weekend and instead we’ve all been left feeling nothing but disappointed and my Mum in a great deal of discomfort still! They stayed on Saturday 02.06 under the name Smith and I think someone really ought to call to apologise and discuss this further! I'd call you if it wasn't for the £14 charge my mum received just for making the reservation initially! Sort it out Champneys.