Verulamium Spa Retreat reopens after £400,000 refurbishment

The spa in St Albans reopened to the public on Wednesday, April 8, after a £400,000 refurbishment.

An exclusive preview event  was held on Tuesday, April 7, where athlete and TV personality Ella Mae Rayner spoke to guests about the importance of recovery and self-care.

Ella Mae Rayner meets customers (Image: Everyone Active)

Drawing on her experience in elite gymnastics and diving, Ella described the upgraded facility as a complete "recovery journey".

She said: "It’s blown me away - it’s such a privilege to have something like this so accessible.

"Looking after your health and wellbeing is so important, and the spa here has really nailed it.

"It’s a beautiful space for both physical and mental wellbeing."

Ella Mae Rayner on the infrared benches (Image: Everyone Active)

The spa is managed by Everyone Active on behalf of St Albans district council.

Work began in January to create a modern, premium environment focused on relaxation.

Upgrades include a fully refitted sauna and steam room, an upgraded hydrospa, and an ice cave with cold plunge baths.

New features include a salt room, infrared seating, and upgraded heated loungers.

General manager Lesley Garner with Ella Mae Rayner (Image: Everyone Active)

The changing rooms have been fully refurbished, and visitors can now enjoy a broader treatment menu and a new cosmetic brand.

Steve Cox, area contract manager at Everyone Active, said: "We’re delighted to officially open the Verulamium Spa Retreat and to welcome customers back.

"This has been a significant investment and the transformation is fantastic.

"The new facilities offer a much more premium experience."

Chris Traill, the council's strategic director for community and place delivery, said: "This major refurbishment is a vivid demonstration of our commitment, together with Everyone Active, to provide the district with first-class leisure facilities."

The spa upgrade forms part of a wider investment programme at Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre, which has also included improvements to gym and poolside areas over the past year.

Westminster Lodge welcomes more than one million visits annually and remains one of the district’s busiest leisure centres.

Bookings for the Verulamium Spa Retreat are now open and can be made online or through the Everyone Active app.