This week is National Spa Week and to mark the occasion we have five of the best spas in and around East Lancashire for you.

Everyone loves to be pampered a little bit; it's a chance to get away from the stresses and strains of daily life or perhaps to enjoy a couple of treatments to leave you looking and feeling great.

As with all of our Five of the Best ... features, this is not a definitive list. We are blessed in having a fine number of excellent establishments on our doorstep. This is merely a selection of some of our favourites.

Stanley House, Hotel and Spa, Mellor

This award-winning spa - last year it was a finalist in the boutique spa category in the Good Spa Awards - offers a hilltop haven where you can relax and enjoy a wide range of treatments. There is also a pilates studio and a fully-equipped gymnasium for those looking for more. And at the end of the day Mr Fred’s Bar and Lounge is the ideal place to enjoy some great food in fabulous surroundings.

The Woodland Spa, Crow Wood, Burnley

Set within 100 acres of some of the finest Lancashire countryside, it’s no wonder that the Woodland Spa has achieved national recognition. Part of the Crow Wood Hotel and leisure complex you can opt for individual treatments, spa says and even spa breaks when you can take advantage of Bertram’s Restaurant as part of your visit.

Inside Spa, Leeds Road, Nelson

Offering a wide range of therapeutic and rejuvenating face and body care treatments this multi-award winning Spa delivers a haven filled experience. Among the many options, you might want to try and special mud chamber to reinvigorate your skin. More than 100 different treatments are available along with various spa day package. Swim, gym and exercise classes can also be offered.

Spa Hotel, Ribby Hall Village

A little bit more out of the way than some of the other spas featured, but many East Lancashire spa lovers make the journey. A wide range of spa days are available for you to pamper yourself. Features include the Rasul Mud Chamber and you can also enjoy fine dining.

Lancashire Health and Wellbeing Centre, Blackburn

A Community Interest Company dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the residents, the centre offers a wide range of complementary therapies, massage, reflexology and even acupuncture. The friendliness of the staff is often commented upon and makes this a little jewel hidden away just off the town centre.