London – a city that never sleeps, bustling with energy and excitement. But amidst the hustle and bustle, sometimes all you crave is a moment of tranquility, a chance to recharge and rejuvenate your mind and body. And what better way to do that than with a luxurious spa experience? Gone are the days of cramped, ordinary spa treatments; London’s spa hotels are redefining relaxation, offering cutting-edge treatments and indulgent amenities. From rooftop pools with breathtaking city views to secret gardens and state-of-the-art gyms, these havens of tranquility offer a perfect escape from the urban jungle.
A Garden in the Sky: The Berkeley
The Berkeley hotel, a true icon of Knightsbridge, boasts a plethora of five-star amenities, but its crown jewel is the Bamford Wellness Spa. Nestled on the seventh floor, the spa feels like an English country garden suspended above the city. Imagine yourself lounging on a daybed, surrounded by vibrant blooms, as you unwind after a rejuvenating treatment. The Bamford Haybarn philosophy underpins most treatments, embracing a holistic, organic approach. For facial treatments, OSKIA, a leading British brand, takes the lead. Beyond the spa, the Berkeley offers yoga and Pilates classes, and during the summer, unique events like hula hooping and synchronized swimming bring a playful twist to your relaxation experience.
A Victorian Gem: Richmond Harbour Hotel & Spa
Step into a restored 18th-century Georgian building, now home to the Richmond Harbour Hotel & Spa, and you’ll be transported to a world of elegance and tranquility. The hotel boasts modern interiors, a terrace restaurant with heaters for cozy evenings, and a prime location within walking distance of Richmond Park. But the spa, with its 20-meter indoor swimming pool, is the true star of the show. Lap swimmers will appreciate the pool’s generous size, while the sauna, steam room, and stylish relaxation room offer the perfect post-swim unwind. The garden, with its Scandinavian hot tubs and vitality pool, is a tranquil oasis. Don’t miss the high-tech gym, offering a variety of classes, and the 13 treatment rooms – the Drift Away massage is a must-try. Family-friendly, the pool welcomes children at designated times, making it a perfect choice for a multi-generational getaway.
A Rooftop Retreat: Four Seasons Park Lane
Perched in Mayfair, one of London’s most prestigious addresses, the Four Seasons Park Lane is a masterpiece of bold and classy design. The hotel beautifully blends 1930s Art Deco elegance with idiosyncratic charm. But it’s the rooftop spa that truly steals the show. With unrivaled views overlooking Hyde Park, the spa offers an unparalleled experience. The sauna, with its panoramic window, provides a breathtaking vista of the Dutch elms and copper beeches. Indulge in pre-treatment pampering in the vitality pool, with its bubbles and underwater seating, or relax in the wood-clad relaxation room, complete with leather and camel-colored pods, a gold mask feature wall, and an abundance of magazines and herbal tea.
A Modern Marvel: The London Edition
The London Edition, a super-boutique hotel, opened its doors in late 2021, quickly becoming one of the capital’s hottest spots. The buzzy bar and restaurant spaces are a draw for those seeking London’s vibrant nightlife, but the elegant basement spa is equally alluring. Spend an afternoon lounging on a cabana bed by the pool, enjoying the sauna and steam room. The extensive treatment menu features facials by Omorovicza and massages by Ila. While deep tissue massages are available, the holistic treatments, like the Harmony massage, incorporating Tibetan acupressure and scalp massage, are truly unique. This cool and contemporary spa also boasts a hair and beauty salon by Hiro Miyosh, an AMA nail bar, and a Refuel superfood and juice clinic.
A Grand Revival: The Corinthia
The Corinthia, a landmark building, underwent a lavish makeover, transforming into one of the most impressive hotels in the UK. Its spa, a remarkable feature, is a flagship for ESPA, renowned for its high-quality treatments. Spread across four floors, the spa offers a comprehensive experience: steam room, 17 treatment rooms, a private spa suite, nail studio, super-cool indoor swimming pool, vitality pool, amphitheatre sauna, ice fountain, marble heated loungers, and private sleep pods. The ESPA treatments are designed to de-stress, release muscles, and uplift the spirit, with various packages available, including the Pure Indulgence Body Ritual.
An Oasis of Tranquility: Aman at The Connaught
The Connaught, a refined and sophisticated hotel, blends old-world charm with modern elegance. Step inside and you’ll be captivated by the dark polished woods, shiny marble floors and pillars, and cream-colored corniced ceilings. The Aman branded spa mirrors this subtle blend of styles, with its deep woods, glossy marble, and minimalist lines. The black-granite swimming pool is the focal point, surrounded by loungers, and there’s a small aromatic steam room. Beyond the standard therapies, the spa offers signature experiences inspired by different cultures, including the Native American-inspired signature experience, a combination of massages incorporating ancient Navajo techniques.
A Hidden Gem: The Lanesborough
This palatial hotel, tucked just off High Holborn, boasts effortless elegance without taking itself too seriously. The Sense spa is a soothing space, with black slate, a relaxation room, sauna and steam facilities, and treatment rooms. The heated beds, deep tissue Maison Caulières massage, and gym with fruit and headphones complete the luxurious experience. While the hotel itself is known for its high room rates, the spa is accessible to all, offering day passes and special packages, including complimentary facilities with treatments. Enjoy treatments by ila, La Prairie, Tata Harper, and Lanesborough own-brand products, and indulge in the scent-infused experience showers, steam room, sauna, and small swimming pool with whirlpool.
Beyond the City Limits: London’s Largest Day Spa
While not a hotel spa, The Spa at The Dorchester holds the title of London’s largest day spa. Spanning 12,000 square feet, this luxurious spa offers a complete wellness experience, with treatment rooms, a rooftop pool, and a wide range of therapies and amenities.
