The very best massages in London: from the A-list one to the one where you keep your clothes on
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Here’s how I came to compile this list: I was chatting to the Standard’s Lifestyle Director, Suzannah Ramsdale, about pampering treatments and she said, “where do you recommend for massages in London? Whenever people ask me it’s actually quite a hard one to answer.” I realised she’s absolutely correct: so many massage places, so few solid recommendations. Even places touting themselves as massage experts can be hit or miss unless you know precisely what you’re booking – but how do you know who’ll be magic and who’ll be meh? And so on and so forth. Suzannah is right: minefield.
I decided to spend my weekends and evenings tackling the admittedly enviable task of seeking out the city’s best, so I could pull together a list of the places and people to call when you need to sort out the stiff shoulders and frazzled nerves that seem to accompany us Londoners around. That said, there is of course an element of individual taste here. You might like to be slathered gently with oils while I love a seriously remedial and intensely strong massage. Where rhythmic, undulating strokes might appeal to you, someone bedding their hands into the stiff bits and making them buttery soft does it for me.
That in mind, the below includes massages for all preferences, with a mix of places I trust and individuals who offer something a little different. I’d go to all of them to achieve zen while in town. The Gaia Bespoke Massage here blends Swedish, deep tissue, and aromatherapy techniques to whisk you away to a place where your muscles and mind are afforded a pause. Afterwards, visit the thermal suite (where there’s a steam room, sauna, and salt room) to eke out the experience. Be prepared for mews house envy — it’s tucked into one of those picturesque Notting Hill alcoves that conjures up the fantasy that life might be considerably different if played out within those hallowed walls.
