Britain has a long tradition of spa provision dating back beyond Roman Times the UK in fact has as many as 13 different spa towns - all of which at one time had their own spa experience.

Although there are only two natural, warm water, mineral springs in the UK (at Bath and Buxton) several other towns have used local waters to develop pump houses and offer curative treatments.

In Ireland, the comparatively new town of Lisdoonvarna, dating from the start of the nineteenth century is the only active spa town in Ireland. The beneficial effects of its waters were first noted as early as 1740 and Lisdoonvarna has been established as a tourist resort almost entirely because of the spa.

Spa culture in the UK is now experiencing a significant revival through the development of a wider variety of spa venues than ever before including hotels, health clubs, day spas and salons.

Whilst modern medicine and technology have lessened the link in the Public's consciousness between a spa and its waters as a source of well-being, many modern spa developments, including several health farms and day spas remain true to the tradition of spas as healing places and you can find many holistic, curative treatments on the treatment menus of modern spa venues as well as relaxing and pampering day breaks.