No results found

Stories Web Banner 300dpi zbhmj0
Fashion and Beauty, Beauty

Bathing Beautifully

divider
Relax fepiwx

Hidden away in central London, between the Strand and the River Thames, is a quiet haven of relaxation and respite. AIRE London is sited in Robert Street, in the former home of Peter Pan author, J M Barrie. Here the magic of Neverland sustains in its new iteration as a bathing house, replete with a variety of different bathing experiences.

Choose between hot, cold, warm and ice, with the freezing plunge of the Trepidariums (14oC and 10oC), the warming Caldarium (40oC), the scented Steam Room, and the thousand-jet jacuzzi- style Balneum. Visitors book in for a timed session and are left to meander through the candlelit rooms and thermal baths at their own pace, with the option of ordering a cleansing juice or a rather more indulgent glass of fizz.

I spent a morning wandering happily between the different brick-clad vaults, dressed only in a swimming costume and robe. All nagging doubts about feeling self-conscious were soon dispelled and I rapidly realised that unlike some swanky gyms or spas full of posing types who are there for the ‘gram, AIRE’s clientele are there to embrace the moment (and the mobile ban certainly helps in ensuring everyone’s privacy and peace).

The building’s design encourages you to lounge and linger, and the scent of orange blossom subtly pervades. On a practical note, there’s an array of rainfall showers dotted throughout, and the changing rooms are gratifyingly stocked with everything and anything you could wish for to transform you back into your public self once your session is over and you emerge back on to the city’s streets.

To take full advantage of the experience I strongly recommend booking in for a massage in one of the upstairs chambers as an additional extra. I saw Anita who was exemplary in ironing out any knots and niggles before I headed back down to the basement to immerse myself once more in its watery depths.

From £115 for 90 minutes beaire.com

SIX SCENTED SOAKS

If you can’t make it to AIRE, upgrade your bathing experience at home with one of these fragrant options.

Escape: Nyita’s bath oils are hand blended, hand filled and indescribably sumptuous. In a choice of sublime fragrances, including Sunlit, which is redolent in coastal samphire and verdant moss.

From £139 nyitacollection.com

Restored: The bracing pine and capsicum oils in Wiberg’s pine bath essence will soothe tired muscles and aching limbs. In fact, each of its natural ingredient is rich in healing properties.

£18.50 amazon.co.uk

Restful: Natural salts suffused with oils including lavender, chamomile and vetiver to encourage a good night’s sleep.

£24 thisworks.com

Comforted: Almond and coconut combine in this seductive bath and body oil which can be swirled into a warm bath to sooth and nourish both skin and soul.

£60 lauramercier.co.uk

De-Stress: Blended with 24 pure essential oils, Neom’s blend of luxurious florals will transport you away from day-to-day cares with its decadent jasmine infused aroma.

£25 neomorganics.com

Invigorated: Inspired by forest-bathing, this herbaceous concoction of wild mint and lavandin is underscored by the warm familiarity of nutmeg, tonka and orris root.

£25 moltonbrown.co.uk

RECOMMENDED

PARFUMS gndip4
Fri 18 Oct 2024

anatomē is a brand inspired by the apothecaries of the past. Their London boutique is a modern take on these old-fashioned stores and its shelves are filled with bottles of natural preparations and wellbeing remedies, from Sensory Point Sleep Oil to probiotic supplements.

Untitled design b3znbw
Wed 16 Oct 2024

We have got a list of our absolute favourite autumn essentials, from stylish wardrobe updates to cozy home additions. Take a look and you get to grab these too.

Beauty Vault 2024 cjxj2j
Fri 11 Oct 2024

We can’t keep calm as LOOKFANTASTIC has announced the launch of its much-awaited Beauty Vault 2024.

Grey Creative Online Store Banner ayuzt6
Fri 4 Oct 2024

Beaujolais Nouveau Day is coming up on 16 November but now is the perfect time to embrace the autumnal beauty of a deep red.