The newly refurbished spa at Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre has reopened to the public today (Wednesday 8 April), following a £400,000 transformation.
The reopening comes after an exclusive preview event on Tuesday 7 April, where Hemel Hempstead-based athlete and TV personality Ella Mae Rayner joined invited members for a first look at the upgraded facilities.
During the event, Ella met with guests and shared insights into the importance of recovery, wellness and self-care, drawing on her experience in elite gymnastics and diving. She highlighted how incorporating recovery into everyday routines can support both physical performance and mental wellbeing.
Managed by Everyone Active on behalf of St Albans City & District Council, the Verulamium Spa Retreat has undergone extensive refurbishment since work began in January, with the £400,000 investment delivered by Everyone Active to create a modern, premium environment centred around relaxation and wellbeing.
The project has focused on modernising the spa’s heat and water experiences, with improvements including a fully refitted sauna and steam room, upgraded hydrospa, enhanced monsoon showers, and new tiling and lighting throughout.
A range of new features has also been introduced, including an ice cave with cold plunge baths, a salt room and infrared seating, alongside upgraded heated loungers - creating what Ella described as a complete “recovery journey” in one space.
The spa’s changing rooms have been completely refurbished with new lockers, showers and vanity areas, while a new cosmetic brand and expanded treatment menu are also now available.
Speaking at the event, Ella Mae Rayner 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.
“My personal favourite is the ice bath - they’re not always easy to find as part of a full facility like this, so I’m really looking forward to using the gym and then coming in here to recover afterwards.”
Bookings are now open, with customers able to reserve their visit online or via the Everyone Active app.
Steve Cox, Everyone Active area contract manager, said: “We’re delighted to officially open the Verulamium Spa Retreat and to welcome customers back.
“It was fantastic to mark the occasion alongside Ella-Mae Rayner at our preview event, where members had the chance to hear first-hand about the importance of recovery and wellbeing.
“This has been a significant investment and the transformation is fantastic. The new facilities offer a much more premium experience, and we’re confident they will exceed expectations for both existing members and new visitors alike.”
Chris Traill, Strategic Director for Community and Place Delivery for St Albans City and District Council, said: “I am very impressed by the extensive upgrade to the spa and I am sure our residents will be as well.
“Not only have the existing features been improved, but there are also a number of exciting additions such as the ice cave and salt room.
“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 programme of investment at Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre over the past year, including refurbishments to gym changing rooms, poolside showers and other facilities.
Welcoming more than one million visits each year, Westminster Lodge remains one of the district’s busiest leisure centres, serving fitness members, swimmers, families and spa users from across the area.