From scenic coastal walks to countryside retreats, the UK is full of destinations where people can switch off, slow down and focus on their wellbeing.
But with wellness breaks becoming more popular, choosing where to go for a proper reset and digital detox can be difficult. Whether holidaymakers are looking for a spa weekend, a yoga retreat, a peaceful cafe to unwind in, or a local wellness community to join, some UK regions are much better equipped than others.
To reveal the best wellness escapes in the UK, the team at Betway analysed regions across four key wellbeing factors, including the number of yoga centres, spas and wellness centres, cafes, and wellness meetups within a 10km radius.
The study found that Devon is the best region for a wellness escape in the UK, achieving an impressive index score of 96.03 out of 100.
The county performed strongly across every category, with 23 yoga centres, 174 spas and wellness centres, 1,128 cafes, and 28 wellness meetups within 10km. With its mix of beaches, national parks, coastal towns, and countryside retreats, Devon offers plenty for those looking to relax, recharge, and reconnect with nature.
Hampshire ranked second overall, with a wellness index score of 83.06. The county recorded 22 yoga centres and 202 spas and wellness centres, making it one of the strongest destinations in the study for those looking to combine restorative activities with a relaxing spa break.
Completing the podium places is Dorset, scoring 74.89 out of 100. The region performed particularly well for wellness meetups, with 25 within 10km, suggesting a strong local wellbeing community. It also recorded 18 yoga centres, 159 spas and wellness centres, and 678 cafes, giving visitors plenty of options for a slower-paced escape.
Kent followed closely behind in fourth place, with a wellness index score of 74.66. The county had the highest number of spas and wellness centres in the study, with 205 in total, as well as 1,121 cafes, making it a strong choice for those looking for a more indulgent wellness break.
North Yorkshire rounded out the top five, scoring 73.83 out of 100. Home to rolling countryside, historic towns, and peaceful walking routes, the region also recorded 15 yoga centres, 139 spas and wellness centres, and 1,116 cafes.
Surrey placed sixth, followed by the Cotswolds in seventh. The Cotswolds performed especially well for wellness meetups, recording 28 within 10km, the joint-highest in the study alongside Devon. Combined with its countryside setting, boutique retreats, and slower pace of life, the region offers plenty for those looking to unwind.
Cornwall ranked eighth overall, with 10 yoga centres, 101 spas and wellness centres, 800 cafes and 20 wellness meetups. Despite having fewer spas than some of the regions above it, Cornwall’s coastal setting and strong cafe scene helped it secure its place as one of the UK’s best destinations for a wellness escape.
Somerset and West Sussex completed the top 10, scoring 43.83 and 43.08, respectively.
Further down the ranking, Lincolnshire, Leicestershire, Suffolk, Northumberland, and Bath scored lower overall, largely due to having fewer wellness facilities across some of the factors analysed. However, their lower scores do not necessarily mean they are poor choices for a relaxing break, as many still offer peaceful countryside, walking routes, and opportunities to escape busy city life.
For Brits looking to book a wellbeing escape without travelling abroad, the South West appears to be one of the strongest regions to consider, with Devon, Dorset, Cornwall, and Somerset all ranking inside the top 10.