Cross my heart and hope to try

You don't always have to travel far to spa finds SHANIA KING-SOYZA on a short-haul staycation to seek out the ultimate in head-to-toe escapism

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We forget that often the most magical getaways don't require a passport or a long-haul flight. Hidden across the UK are cosy, undiscovered gems perfect for an autumnal escape.

So instead of hibernating at home, I decided to escape the rush of London life and head out on a peaceful staycation to Gerrards Cross, a 20-minute train ride from London.

Joined by my mum, we settled on the Crowne Plaza hotel with its large green fields and gorgeous yellow and red trees. We were taken aback by the hotel's grand size, elegant exterior and stunning water feature.

And before we'd even walked through the front door, we saw people stepping out in luxurious white robes, with big smiles on their faces, looking completely relaxed.

Despite its beauty, the best part of this hotel is its gorgeous scent - it was as if you had walked into the freshest floral perfume store.

Our room had everything we needed too: two double beds, a bath and shower, big TV, and of course, those all-important white robes and slippers for the ultimate spa feel.