Types of spa: London spas

Spas in London are, of course, much like spas in other parts of the country, but there are some differences that are worth remembering.

Cost:

London spas are often more expensive than other spas due to their capital city location. We consider treatments that cost anything up to £1 per minute as affordable, anything up to £1.50 per minute as pushing the boat out and over that as blow the budget! You're more likely to come across push the boat out and blow the budget spa prices in London, as space is at a premium, and rates are higher.

Facilities:

You're likely to find that large swimming pools and epic wet facilities are at a premium at London spas, too. Because the capital is so densely populated with buildings, most spas are incorporated into existing buildings. This means the spa simply doesn't have the space to pop in an Olympic-size swimming pool or humongous wet spa! Also, where you find larger pools you'll also find larger demand – this is worth bearing in mind. Call ahead and find out about the spa's quieter times if you are looking for a more serene swimming experience.

Types of spa:

When is a spa not a spa? When it's treatment rooms. You'll find that more treatment rooms in London call themselves "spas" than in other parts of the country. It's all about glamour in the capital, so treatment rooms want to get in on the action. Check out our spa listings or call the spa to see what facilities are available before you visit so you can manage your expectations.

Standards:

Expect high standards. Because there's so much competition amongst London spas, and because they're located in our country's fine capital city, you'll find that many spas have standards that are super-high. Property is expensive, and clients are connoisseurs, so the spas are expected to continually exceed your expectations. You may be paying a little more than usual, but it will usually be worth every penny!

Here are some of the Good Spa Spies' favourite London spas:

London spas with pools

Berkeley Spa, Knightsbridge

CityPoint Club, Barbican

Harbour Club Spa and Clinic (Amida Spa), Chelsea

The Spa at County Hall, Westminster

Sanook Spa, Soho

London spas for men only

Gentlemen's Tonic, Mayfair and Oxford Street

Nickel, Covent Garden

The Refinery, Knightsbridge and Mayfair

London spas for women only