A city break in London can be as tiring as it is exciting. So why not step off the busy streets for a while and relax in one of London’s finest spas?
London is full of life – there are things to see, do and experience around every corner. But after several days in the hustle and bustle, something a little more relaxing might be just what you need.
What better way to top off a weekend in the city, than with a luxurious spa treatment?
The Dorchester is a hotel synonymous with luxury and the spa doesn’t disappoint. In the basement of the hotel, an art deco palace unfolds, glittering with 30s glamour. Recently refurbished in 2009, the spa gleams with extravagance. The decor is striking and reminiscent of a time long gone – this spa not only transports you from the hustle and bustle of the city, but to another era as well.
There are nine treatment rooms offering a selection of indulgent treatments, such as facials by Carol Joy London and skincare treatments by Kerstin Florian. And if that isn’t enough pampering for one day, a wide selection of massages and aromatherapy treatments are available.
If all this relaxing leaves you a bit peckish, there is a ‘Spatisserie’ adjoining the spa offering delicious light lunches and afternoon tea.
2. Espa Life Spa at the Corinthia
Espa Life Spa is a place to indulge your senses – their natural, holistic approach will cleanse your body and mind. Despite the spa’s stunning yet striking design, there is a sense of intimacy in every room.
As you walk through this luxurious spa, you’ll discover glowing pools of calm water, black mosaic steam rooms, black marble showers and uber-modern sleek design throughout.
Many of the treatment rooms have heated fireside beds, where the flames are captured in the delicate curve of the architecture. One of the things that sets this spa apart is the range of personalised facials and massages, so you can be sure you are getting something tailored for your body’s needs.
All of this has made ESPA Life at Corinthia the 2012 Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Travel Award for ‘Best UK Hotel Spa’. Definitely worth a visit! And all this indulgence is available, just a few minutes’ walk away from the Houses of Parliament.
3. Chuan Spa
Chuan Spa is probably one of the most relaxing spas in London. In fact, it’s so relaxing that 50% of people fall asleep during a treatment!
This is a great spa if you’re after something a bit different. As the first luxurious Chinese medicine centre in London, Chuan Spa offers an alternative approach to spa treatments. Their signature treatment, the Chuan Balancing, requires you to fill in a form to determine what element you currently are, such as earth, water etc.
Their massages aim to both relax you and detoxify your body by stimulating your body’s pressure points. Step into Chuan Spa’s pool area and you’ll find lavender and glowing lanterns lining each pool – a beautiful experience for mind and body.
4. Ushvani
Behind a grand door in Chelsea lies a beautiful spa complex of whirlpools, baths and hydrotherapy rooms. Voted the UK’s best Day Spa by both Tatler and Condé Nast Traveller, this tranquil urban oasis certainly delivers.
The rooms are decorated with colourful Malaysian artwork and filled with a gentle aroma to sooth your senses. The spa offers a wide range of treatments but perhaps their most popular is the chocolate and orange scrub, a tasty treat for your skin!
This luxurious rooftop spa offers 360 degree views of the capital. Located on the 10th floor, this spa is a sanctuary in the clouds, letting you leave the hustle and bustle behind you and relax in style.
The spa offers floor to ceiling views of the city, and the style of the interior is sleek and modern, combining soothing lights with urban views. One of their most popular treatments is the green coffee and chili re-sculpting, a process said to improve circulation.
So next time, you’re in London, why not plan a trip to one of these spas and relax in style. And if you’re looking for complete relaxation, there are plenty of luxury London hotels, which will make your stay really special. Treat your body and mind to five star luxury!
Have you been to any great spas recently? Share your travel tips below!
Susannah is a fashion and beauty blogger with a passion for pampering. She loves nothing more than relaxing in a luxurious spa and feeling the day just wash away.
