StyleNest headed to one of the Capital’s most iconic hotels, The Berkeley London for an indulgent day at the Bamford Haybarn Spa.
For such an iconic London hotel, The Berkeley doesn’t always stick with tradition. From their fashion inspired Prêt-à-Portea Afternoon Tea (think edible bite-sized Manolo’s and palatable Prada coats), to the hotel’s chic Blue Bar that’s anything but old-school and uptight; The Berkeley is really rather modern in its approach.
That unique approach has led The Berkeley to revamp their stunning rooftop spa, with an injection of countrified, rustic chic courtesy of British beauty brand, Bamford. Trust us, this spa will put all those trendy hammans and amans that pop up all over London to shame.
We arrived at the spa which sits peacefully on the hotel’s sixth floor. The walls are covered in a rustic wood effect, almost as though a very chic converted barn has been propped right on top of the hotel itself. A heavy dose of white, oatmeal, stone grey and cream keep the space luxe, whilst the soothing, natural scent of rosemary and lavender fills the air. It really is a little drop of the countryside in the hustle and bustle of the city.
There are four treatment rooms, charmingly named The Hayloft, The Log Room, The Beehive Room and The Willow Room. We were having our treatment in the Hayloft – Bamford’s indulgent Body Signature Treatment.
The treatment began with a relaxing cleansing foot bath, and a choice of three different oils to use in our treatment – lavender to calm, geranium to uplift and energise, and rosemary -simply because as our therapist put it, “it’s just lovely”. We decided on the geranium as we had an evening of dinner and cocktails to follow.
We moved over to the treatment bed where a combination of shiatsu, meridian and Swedish massage was worked into our muscles to awaken the energy channels of the body, and work out any knots and tension we had. It was safe to say we had a lot, even our lovely therapist commented on how tense our shoulder area had become. Because of this, the massage movements did hurt a little to begin with, but after 20minutes we became relaxed and on the verge of falling into a dreamy slumber.
Reflexology was then used on our feet to encourage the positive flow of energy throughout the body as well as detoxify the body’s organs. Despite being really relaxed, we did feel a new burst of energy once the treatment had finished. Plus, our skin was baby-soft and supple – just what it needed at this tran-seasonal time of year.
Once the treatment had finished and we’d had a few minutes to waken up, our therapist gave us some kind advice about further treatment for our stiff shoulders. Unlike many therapists who would simply say come back for more treatments, The Berkeley’s therapist was really honest and even suggested looking into acupuncture – a treatment the spa don’t actually offer, which we thought was quite admirable.
After our treatment we were taken up to the 7th floor and the roof of The Berkeley. Here we were greeted by what can only be described as one of the most magical spots in London. A clear blue pool sits right on top of The Berkeley with an open roof above. The sun loungers are cleverly sat below beautiful white arches, so you’re neither in nor out, whilst 360degree windows look out over Hyde Park and Knightsbridge. This is without a doubt London’s best kept secret.
Based on the wonderful treatment, the impeccable service and beautiful setting, we’d quite happily head to The Berkeley’s spa every day. But places like this are simply too special, and should be reserved for the most special of treats.
The Bamford Body Signature Treatment at The Berkeley Health Club & Spa is priced at £150 for 85mins.
The Berkeley, Wilton Place, Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7RL Tel. 020 7235 6000 www.the-berkeley.co.uk