In a city as relentless as London, knowing where to find genuine respite is essential. The best spas offer more than just a massage and a cucumber water — they provide a complete sensory reset, from the moment you descend the stairs (or ascend to the rooftop) to the moment you reluctantly re-enter the world.
We've tested London's spas with one criterion above all: did we feel genuinely different when we left?
The Hotel Icons
ESPA Life at Corinthia
London's most impressive hotel spa occupies four floors beneath Whitehall Place. The vitality pool alone — thermal, with underwater jets and a stunning mosaic ceiling — justifies the visit. Treatment rooms are vast, the thermal suite includes a sauna, steam room, ice fountain, and relaxation pods. The signature treatment (90 minutes) is outstanding. Day spa from £195. Treatment from £130.
The Lanesborough Club & Spa
Reopened in 2023 after extensive renovation, the Lanesborough spa combines a state-of-the-art gym, hydrotherapy pool, and treatment rooms with the hotel's characteristic Regency grandeur. The spa menu draws on both Eastern and Western traditions. The Turkish hammam experience is particularly good. Treatment from £150.
Bulgari Spa, Knightsbridge
A 25-metre gold and onyx swimming pool, vitality pool, and MVRDV-designed treatment rooms make this one of London's most architecturally striking spas. The Bulgari signature treatment incorporates gemstone-infused oils. Undeniably luxurious. Day spa from £250. Treatment from £160.
The Wellness Retreats
Bamford Haybarn Spa, Brompton Cross
Carole Bamford's wellness philosophy — organic, holistic, nature-connected — permeates every detail. The treatments use Bamford's own botanical products, the yoga studio offers excellent classes, and the juice bar is genuinely good. The atmosphere is calm, unhurried, and refreshingly unpretentious. Treatment from £90.
The Londoner Spa, Leicester Square
A relative newcomer, this subterranean spa beneath The Londoner hotel features a striking swimming pool, relaxation lounge, and treatment rooms designed with Japanese-inspired minimalism. Excellent for pre-theatre relaxation. Treatment from £110.
Akasha Holistic Wellbeing at Hotel Café Royal
Spread across two floors beneath Regent Street, Akasha combines a beautiful pool, hammam, watsu pool, and treatment rooms with a programme rooted in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine. The consultation-led approach means treatments are personalised rather than menu-driven. Treatment from £120.
The Day Spas
Cowshed, Various Locations
Soho House's spa brand offers excellent treatments in characterful spaces across London. The Primrose Hill and Shoreditch locations are particularly charming. The products (made in Somerset) are excellent, the prices are fair, and the atmosphere is relaxed. Treatment from £60.
Agua at Sea Containers, South Bank
A modern spa with Thames views, featuring a Finnish sauna, steam room, and well-designed treatment rooms. The location — inside the Sea Containers hotel — means you can combine a spa visit with rooftop cocktails. Treatment from £85.
For Swimming
The RAC Club Pool, Pall Mall
Members only, but if you can gain access, the RAC's subterranean swimming pool — tiled in blue and white, with marble columns — is one of London's most beautiful indoor pools. The associated spa is excellent. Members' guest day pass available.
Porchester Spa, Bayswater
Not luxury in the conventional sense, but this 1929 Art Deco municipal Turkish bath is a London treasure. Three pools, a Russian-style steam room, a dry sauna, and a plunge pool — for £35. The atmosphere is authentically communal. Single-sex sessions.
Booking Tips
Book 1–2 weeks ahead for weekend appointments. Arrive 30–60 minutes early to use thermal facilities (included at most hotel spas). Communicate any preferences or medical conditions at booking. Most spas add a discretionary service charge of 12.5–15%.
Browse our Beauty & Wellness directory for more spa and wellness partners, or explore Health & Wellbeing for a wider view.
