Where to Unwind this Christmas

If you’ve felt like a castaway over the past two years, or your life has mimicked one long pile–up from Gran Turismo, the bustle of Christmas 2021 might send you in search of some TLC. Maybe you’re not in the mood for high octane partying (not yet, anyway) but you always deserve a reward. 

So here are a few stress busters to help you enjoy the holiday season. Most of them are laid back enough to leave you refreshed, but not so austere as to kill every last pleasure centre in your body. 

When it comes to relaxation, messing about in water comes close to the top of any list. So why not try AIRE Ancient Baths near the Strand. Imagine ancient Rome landed in central London and cosied up to a vaulted underworld of clear blue pools and soft candlelight. 

Dip your toe into the Tepidarium (36ºC) before embracing the full force of the 40ºC Caldarium; end with a plunge into an eye–watering 14ºC Frigidarium. All of which might sound a bit Harry Potter, but it looks invitingly gorgeous. 

Alternatively, there is a steam bath and a salt bath (Vaporium/Flotarium), while the Balneum or “bath of a thousand jets” might send you off towards nearby Trafalgar Square with a spring in your step. AIRE, 2-3 Robert St, WC2

 

If you’re not quite ready for the bathing habits of the ancient world, you could go full 21st century with Adamo Spa health and beauty treatments at 100 Minories, EC3. 

This luxury spa offers various massages (Swedish and hot stones) and specialist body care therapies, as well as oxygen facials, nail care and Karin Herzog treatments and facials. There are sessions for partners and small groups, plus hen parties are welcome. This is a luxury retreat in the centre of London. Explore these spa treatments and tailor your experience. 

As it’s Christmas, why not combine the Adamo spa “wellness” experience with a pampered festive afternoon tea. That’s exactly what Blue Orchid Hotels’ Tower Suites is offering this December. Tower Suites is one of the best spa hotels in London and this offer includes a 45 minute Classic Swedish massage for two and a choice of either mulled wine or seasonal mocktail, plus Christmas themed afternoon tea for two. Tower Suites’ boutique apartments and its Skyline Terrace Bar overlook Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. 100 Minories, EC3. 

 

But if you really want to push the boat out (literally) you could always sign up for the hot tub that IS a boat. It might sound a little adventurous at this time of year, but the website has testimonials from people who have lowered themselves into these bespoke dinghies and gently motored around Canary Wharf on a cold day – and loved it. Sets off from Canary Wharfe and docks at Billingsgate Market.

MASAJ bills itself as “modern massage in East London” and frankly, self improvement has never looked so good. It certainly offers an impressive series of relaxing or therapeutic bodywork sessions. Whether you’re looking for an all over blissed–out experience or relief from an overworked muscle group, this company offers several relevant treatments. Also, pre and post-natal women’s health and bonding and restorative work with pairs or couples. MASAJ has tailored sessions for newbies and long–time converts, plus in terms of presentation and message, it has a strong, clear appeal that won’t alienate the unapologetic bloke in your life. MASAJ 10 Charlotte Road, EC2A.

If mind–body–spirit is more your style, then the Tara Yoga Centre with its classes, workshops, talks and retreats might be for you. It’s more appropriate for those who are looking for a way of life than an afternoon’s relaxation, given that it bills itself as the home of yoga, tantra and spirituality, but after two years of Covid perhaps this is exactly what you’re after. Its appeal includes ladies yoga. Tara yoga centre is within walking distance of Old Street, Barbican and Angel tube stations. London Studio: 25-31 Ironmonger Row, EC1.

While we’re on the subject of mind–body–spirit, Hoxley and Porter in Angel, Islington (the restaurant and bar) offers eclectic British delicacies and  – if you’re into that kind of thing – a cocktail menu that is based on the signs of the Zodiac. 

Last but not least, you could sink into the pink interiors of Sketch, all velvety designer banquettes and walls adorned with alternating and well displayed art (at the time of writing David Shrigley was on display). Offering everything from afternoon teas to seven course tasting menus, this well known restaurant is the brain child of chef Pierre Gagnaire and restauranteur Momo Mazouz. Art, food and drinks that are literally in the pink in Mayfair. 9 Conduit Street, W1.

 

And breathe…