spa London York Hall Cleopatra's Milk & Honey Ritual Treatment Review

A couple of week's ago I headed up the Central Line to Bethnal Green for a treatment at day spa - spa London York Hall. Billed as an affordable luxury spa I was curious as to whether it would live up to my high expectation.

Located a very short walk from Bethnal Green Tube, York Hall is a grand old building that houses the local swimming baths and the Oasis that is spa London, downstairs. I went along with my husband to try out the new VIP Double Suite but you can go with a friend if you prefer.

Once downstairs we were greeted by the friendly receptionist who asked as to fill a form with a few details (this is the norm before having treatments) and then we were handed a bag with a robe and towel. We swapped our shoes for flip flops, being a teeny shoe size mine were a little on the large side but no matter. We were shown to the changing rooms and put on our swimwear. At spa London there are days when it is women only, men only and mixed which personally I think is a really nice touch. It does mean that they do sometimes flip the changing rooms depending on requirement. The ladies on this occasion was the small changing room. I would have preferred that there were closed rooms to get changing in.

Once back out we were greeted by one of our therapists who showed us around the Thermal Spa facilities and said we could use them before our treatment. I strongly recommend going a bit earlier than your treatment appt so that you can enjoy the rather fabulous facilities, unfortunately we didn't have time to try them before and we had to dash off after.

Set in London's oldest Turkish baths, it boasts the following facilities - two Aroma Steam Rooms, Tepidarium, Caldarium, Laconium, Sauna, Ice Fountain, Monsoon Shower, Hammam, Plunge Pool, Bucket Shower and Relaxation Lounge. Some of these I have to be honest looked like instruments of torture, however the husband is keen to go back and experience them.

We did have a short sit in the Hammam and Relaxation Lounge which was incredibly relaxing.

It was time for our treatment - spa London's Signature Treatment - Cleopatra's Milk & Honey Ritual. We were led to the VIP Double Suite and asked to get changed into the obligatory paper knickers (for me) and paper shorts (for him). My knickers were the teeniest of thongs!

The therapists run through the treatment we were going to get. I was a bit disappointed when she didn't mention the head and scalp massage, so I asked whether it was included and she admitted she had forgot! However we did get the full treatment promised which comprised of the following -

A deluxe treatment inspired by Cleopatra’s bathing ritual thought to have preserved her youthful beauty! It involves a full body wash and scrub to deeply cleanse body and soul before a luscious milk and honey mixture is poured onto the body and a nourishing hair treatment coats the head and scalp. Whilst the goodness sinks in, a face and scalp massage is performed sending you into a hypnotic state. You are then veiled in a mist of rose and orange blossom before a milk application massage is given.

My thoughts 

Being washed and then scrubbed in preparation for the treatment was invigorating and not too harsh which I was fully expecting it to be. The milk and honey mixture was poured onto the body, it smelt divine and was lovely and warming. I enjoyed this a lot. The face and scalp massage was quite honestly one of the best things I have ever experienced, it was so gentle and relaxing that I am pretty sure that I fell asleep! 

We then had a shower to wash off the mixture and this was just gorgeous as my skin, at this point, was already feeling silky soft. We got to choose which milk application we wanted to be used on us and both opted for the Green Tea & Ginger which smelt so wonderful, uplifting and refreshing.The veil of mist, Rose & Orange Blossom smelt so good, I want to buy it! (I meant to ask what it was) This was used twice during our treatment and really was exceptionally sublime a scent. 

We both absolutely loved our treatment, the feeling of relaxation and well being lasted the whole day. The massage so good and the whole experience; location, cleanliness and facilities I give a huge 5 stars. My skin was left super smooth, ready for Summer. Cleopatra's Milk & Honey Ritual is a fabulous way to kick start Summer Skin or just completely escape from the stresses of life. I was scrubbed, buffed and moisturised to perfection. 

We are planning a return visit very soon!

spa London York Hall Cleopatra's Milk & Honey Ritual costs an extremely reasonable £59 per person and lasts 50 minutes. 

*We were guests of spa London

Sense Spa At Rosewood London - Review

This time last week I was invited along to experience a treatment at the Sense Spa at Rosewood London. Rosewood London is a luxury 5 star hotel conveniently situated just a few steps away from Holborn tube station.

Walk through the gates and you reach the courtyard where the entrance is.

The hotel is absolutely stunning. I only entered the lobby and I knew I wanted to return. It was full of warmth and as the hotel was busy there was a delightful buzz in the air. I was leaving behind the hustle and bustle of the busy and cold London streets and I hoped I was going to experience pure relaxation once I entered the Sense Spa.

The hotel is huge and despite receiving instructions on how to get to the spa I got lost in the myriad of corridors (which is no bad thing as I got to see even more of this exquisite hotel!)

The Spa Entrance 

Once I walked through the doors I was greeted by the smiling and friendly receptionist who asked me to fill in a quick questionnaire, confirmed that I was booked in for an hour Aroma Massage, she told me the name of my therapist and handed me a key to my locker and showed the way to the changing room.

I adored the spa's zen theme which features bamboo walls, soft lighting and wooden walkways over rippling water and pebble stones leading to seven treatment rooms, one of which is an exclusive couple's suite. The ambient was unimposing but incredibly calming, I wanted to take away a CD of music as I was so chilled out by it.

In the changing room the locker contained slippers, a dressing gown and paper knickers. Everything you need for your treatment. 

Facilities inside the changing room include dry heat saunas and amethyst crystal steam rooms which I got to enjoy after my massage. 

Once I was ready I went to wait for my therapist in the most impressive shimmering gold leaf and teak relaxation lounge (pictured above). There were 7 beds, papers to read and drinks to have. I didn't have to wait long before my therapist arrived and led me to the large and comfortable treatment room. I was given a pretreatment drink made with fresh juices. 

The one thing that struck me was that the bed I had to lie on for my treatment was heated. This was such a welcome surprise. It was such a cold and windy day that I felt chilled to the bone, the heated bed soon warmed me up and kept me at the perfect temperature throughout my massage. 

The Aroma massage uses pre blended oils and is a gently soothing massage designed to stimulate circulation and aid relaxation. Just what I was looking for. The therapist was fantastic, applying just the right amount of pressure. Any stresses I was holding on to were melting away and I just felt so incredibly relaxed that I didn't want the experience to end. Sadly it course had to, the time seemed to pass so quickly I found it hard to believe that I had been on the bed for an hour, I had to check my watch and sure enough an hour had passed. The ultimate sign of an excellent massage. 

Once finished I was led back into the relaxation lounge and was offered a drink, I chose to have a warm Jasmine Tea which was a beautiful way to end the massage. I was then left to leave at my own pleasure. I stayed for a short while in the warmth and ambiance of the room before returning to the changing rooms and experiencing the steam and sauna rooms which were just fabulous. 

I would highly recommend a treatment at this gorgeous spa oasis in the centre of London. My massage was sublime and the surroundings are an indulgent and exquisite treat. I would definitely return to try another treatment. I cannot rate the experience highly enough.

A one hour Aroma Massage costs £100.

For more details on all the treatments available at Sense Spa or to book, visit the website Sense Spa 

*I was a guest of the Sense Spa

A Perfect Weekend Away In London

Pre our son my husband and I would think nothing of booking a weekend away. Even though we were born and bred in London some of our favourite weekend trips have been spent in London, staying in a nice hotel and just doing the tourist thing. I find that when you live in London you can become blind to all it has to offer, and opt to go further afield. However, we have so much literally on our doorstep so why waste time travelling and take in some more of the local sites. I have seen so much but there is so much that I have yet to discover!

Getting away these days is a lot harder now that we have our 5 year old to consider but that doesn't stop me planning a perfect weekend away in my head, dreaming and imagining of all the fun things I would like to do.

First things first, I would choose and book a Central London hotel online and would look at using Hotel Direct who offer a great choice of hotels, most of which have spa facilities.

My perfect weekend in London would of course include my husband for company; we would start with a leisurely breakfast at Leyas in Camden. It is an independent coffee shop serving a delicious brunch menu at weekends. I would have Eggs Benedict as it is tasty and filling, a glass of orange juice and a latte to set me up for the day. We would amble down the road to Camden Market, a must visit destination and get a bite to eat from one of the many street kitchens. The variety of choice is huge, so there really is something for everyone there.

Making our way back to Central London, we will take in a West-End show. I love plays and musicals and have seen quite a few over the years. On this occasion I fancy seeing a matinee performance of the musical The Jersey Boys which has been on my to see list for quite a while now. Dinner would be fun and relaxing at Belgian favourite Belgos restaurant in Covent Garden for dinner and drinks, it isn't romantic as it is far too noisy but there is plenty of time for that...if it is a nice evening we will no doubt end up in a Cocktail bar, mine is a White Russian or a refreshing Mojito.

Next morning we will visit a museum, a revisit to The Victoria and Albert or perhaps The Charles Dickens Museum would be great, take a walk in a Royal Park and make a visit to Fortnum and Mason for a bit of food shopping. Heading back to the hotel our afternoon will be spent enjoying one of my favourite past-times afternoon tea and some indulgent spa treatments. Nothing less than a full body massage will do for me to relax body and mind, ready for the week ahead. If time allows a facial or manicure would be nice and then use of the spa facilities.

Oh yes that pretty much sums up my perfect weekend.

How about you?

*Sponsored post 

Mandara Spa Island Paradise Revitalising Leg Treatment - Summer Ready Legs

I was recently invited to experience a new Mandara Spa Treatment - The Island Paradise Revitalising leg Treatment. I popped along to the divine Spa based at the Park Plaza Hotel Westminster Bridge for the 50 minute treatment and allowed myself to drift away to paradise.

Developed exclusively for Mandara Spa this detoxifying and contouring treatment for the legs combine hero
products from the Island Paradise bath & body spa collection.

Treatment claims

Inspired by the Maldives, the potent benefits of grapefruit, lemon and white tea combined with an intensive lymphatic drainage treatment using traditional bamboo massage techniques, will help stimulate a sluggish circulation, reduce fluid retention and smooth the appearance of cellulite. Tired, heavy legs will feel energised whilst the skin will feel beautifully smooth and look healthy and toned – the perfect preparation for summer.

What it involves

• To help kick-start poor circulation, an intensive dual-action treatment of dry-brushing, followed by exfoliation will have an invigorating effect on the legs. The Island Paradise Intensive Body Scrub combines crushed peach stone granules and coconut shells to thoroughly exfoliate the skin in preparation for the massage.

• Next the Island Paradise Cooling Gel is generously applied and massaged into the legs and thighs. The cooling,menthol action will further help stimulate blood flow and refresh tired legs.

• Legs are then wrapped, a technique that enhances the benefits of the cooling gel by restricting blood flow in the capillaries and helps to reduce any puffiness. Feet then receive a massage with the Island Paradise Foot Butter and placed into cotton socks for an intense nourishing treatment.

• Whilst your feet and legs undergo their transformation,enjoy a wonderfully relaxing head and shoulder massage.

• The treatment is finished with a traditional warm bamboo massage. Designed to stimulate the lymphatic drainage, it will help flush away the build up of toxins and fatty deposits that can lead to the appearance of cellulite. The legs will appear more toned and contoured whilst feeling revitalised and beautifully soft to the touch.

My thoughts and a mini review of the products used.

The treatment from start to finish was sublime. The room was warm and inviting, the music calm and relaxing. my therapist had a wonderfully soothing voice. The scrub was harsh but pleasant for a real exfoliating and invigorating feeling that woke up the legs.  The cooling gel's icy cool effects were really rather pleasurable as it gained momentum having been wrapped. I normally dislike my feet being massaged but the foot massage was gentle and non tickly which made it bearable.. I absolutely loved the head and shoulder massage which identified tense areas and my therapist recommended that I had regular massages to ease this. The highlight of the treatment was the warm bamboo massage on my legs. This was a delightful contrast to the iciness that had preceded it.

At the end of the treatment my legs felt extremely light and the softest and smoothest I have ever felt them to be. I felt ready to bare them.

Bringing the spa to your home... You can replicate the spa treatment at home.. sadly minus the professional massage, with the affordable products that are used during the treatment.

Product reviews - products available to purchase from Sainsbury's.

Island Paradise Intensive Body Scrub £8.00 - Slightly lemony and citrus in scent this is a grainy and highly effective exfoliator.

Island Paradise Refreshing Cooling Gel £5.00 - Containing menthol the scent is very similar to Tunes, which I find really quite appealing and cannot help inhaling. The cooling effect is fab and would be highly enjoyable on a hot sunny day!

Island Paradise Softening Foot Butter £4.00 - This also has a citrus lemon scent, resembling a lemon cream. This foot butter is semi thick, absorbs fast and leaves feet smelling wonderful and super soft and silky.

Mandara Spa Island Paradise Revitalising Leg Treatment 

Price: £85.00 for 50 minutes

*PR Samples

Father's Day Gift Idea - Agua Spa At The Sanderson

The Agua Spa at The Sanderson Hotel have a fantastic offer which would make the ideal gift for dads this Father's day.

Treat him to a 25 minute full body scrub followed by a 25 minute back, neck and shoulder massage. Price includes dried nuts and a selection of fruit to snack on, herbal tea or request your dad's favourite beer when booking!

This special offer costs £90 and is available from 13-20th June subject to availability.

For more details click here 

Sanderson London
50 Berners Street
London, England W1T 3NG
Tel. +44 (0) 20 7300 1414

Balinese Massage - Mandara Spa At Park Plaza Hotel, Westminster Bridge

One of my regrets on my honeymoon was not having a his and hers massage in Hawaii. I think it would have been lovely to have massaged away all the stresses of planning the wedding. So, when the opportunity arose for my husband and I to try the Balinese Massage at the Mandara Spa, Park Plaza we gladly accepted.

So a few hot Saturday's ago we hopped onto the train and found ourselves in the midst of the hustle and bustle of Westminster Bridge, where mime artists, human statues and hot dog vendors mingle with tourists. Having navigated out of the maze of people we walked a short distance to our destination, The Park Plaza. The hotel is in an excellent location for lots of tourist attractions but for once we were heading in the opposite direction.

 The building is a huge modern building, contemporary in design and pretty much impossible to miss. As we were early we sat down in the Espressamente illy coffee bar for a drink and a read of the papers (I managed to resist the gorgeously tempting cakes). Fifteen minutes before our massage appointment we took the designated 'spa lift' to the Mandara Spa located in the basement of the Hotel.

The Mandara Spa is the first Mandara Spa in the UK. The decor takes its inspiration from Asia with dark wood, bamboo and cream colour scheme and completes the feel with a wonderful black stone water fountain. This was in such contrast to the outside world that we had come from that it was a welcome escape and we were able to fully immerse ourselves in the Bali experience.

Having tried the Mandara Spa Honeymilk Dream Body Butter and loving it, I was looking forward to having the Balinese Massage. This is one of the Spa's signature services and described as 'Our most relaxing massage, harnessing the therapeutic properties of 100% pure essential oils. Used for centuries to renew, strengthen and heal both body and mind, this traditional therapy combines stretching, long strokes, skin rolling and palm and thumb pressure techniques to relieve tension, improve blood flow, ease stress and calm the mind. It can also help to improve the circulatory, lymphatic, muscular and nervous systems.'

We completed the obligatory health questionnaire and waited for our therapists to arrive. We were having our massages in the sole double therapy room.

Once shown to the room we were asked to remove our clothing and lie on the bed, a slight awkward moment occurred when I asked whether we should be completely naked or keep our pants on... the therapist replied that it was up to us, whichever made us more comfortable. The last time I had a massage the therapist had provided paper pants to wear and as this offer was not forthcoming on this occasion, I had to ask the question! We opted to keep our underwear on...However, had I read the PDF on the website a bit more closely I would have seen a section on what to wear and spared our blushes.

The room was warm, welcoming and extremely calming. The decor echoed what was outside, the lighting subdued and the music authentic. Once the therapists set to work my eyes were closed and I just drifted away while they performed their magic. The Balinese Massage was incredible as it combines different techniques of massage which really do work on all the senses. Just as you get comfortable with one style like rolling the therapist changes to another technique which felt really nice. As I was lying there I could smell essential oils being used on my body which was a sensory experience of its own, though I could not identify them.  Apparently you have the option of choosing from four aromatherapy oils depending on your requirements - Calming, Comforting, Sensual and Energising. We were not asked what we would like used on us but I 'think' that my husband had Citrus Spice oil used on him as he came away feeling energised and invigorated. I felt calm and relaxed after my massage so I may have had Tropical Blooms oil used on me, I cannot be sure but what I do know was that I smelt lovely and my skin was left soft and conditioned.

Once the massage was over we headed back to the waiting lounge and enjoyed the cold drinks of fresh lemon, orange and water on offer. There was also a selection of herbal teas. To eat, a choice of fresh fruit and tasty 'healthy' cakes.

We then headed to the Health Centre for a dip in the pool and use of the Sauna and Steam room. This belongs to the hotel so it is possible there will be other guests in there, which being a Saturday afternoon was full of boisterous youths

We left the Mandara Spa with a wonderful sense of contentment. My husband had a real spring in his step and for me, what made my day. was my mum saying that the massage must have done us a world of good as we both looked so well and ten years younger!

We had the 50 minute Mandara Spa Balinese Massage which costs £85 per person. For more details on this and other treatments visit Mandara Spa 

Afternoon Tea and a Manuka Honey Spa treatment at The Athenaeum

Regular readers of this blog know that I adore afternoon tea. On Thursday I was fortunate enough to visit the Athenaeum to experience afternoon tea and a Ren Spa treatment. Now, I am not entirely a stranger to the Athenaeum - I had a HUGE surprise from my husband last June when he booked a stay at this charming boutique hotel for my birthday. I was happy to be returning as I didn't get a chance to experience the afternoon tea on that occasion.

Afternoon Tea is served in the Garden Room - an intimate room that is so comfortable and relaxing that you feel as if you are sitting in your lounge. It is a brightly decorated room with gentle background music playing.

The Honey Afternoon Tea has been inspired by the honey from Regents Park and every item on the menu uses honey from the Royal Parks as one of the ingredients - A novel idea! I love the taste of honey so I was very much looking forward to trying this.

Pure indulgence followed. I was served a Honey Fizz (Champagne, Honey, Chambord and Vodka) to start, which was followed by Athenaeum Blend English Breakfast Tea and tasty sandwiches. I ate a smoked salmon sandwich and a caramelized goats cheese mini roll with honey, Although there were other sandwich choices of egg or ham.

Up next were hot crumpets and freshly baked warm scones served with honey, jam, clotted cream and butter. I chose to try another tea on the menu - This time I opted for the Niagara Peach which is a green tea blended with peach pieces. A great choice. There are many more teas to choose from however so you will be sure to find one to suit your palette.

And then, the moment I was waiting for ...the final course appeared of extremely tempting, delicate and exquisite home-made pastries including Honeycomb Marquis, Honey Cake, Elderflower Jelly, Lavender and Honey Macaroons,Chocolate and Honey Mille Feuille and Honey Cheesecake. I defy you to say no. Beautifully presented and moreish. A fine and carefully thought out menu.

Peach tea and the pastries that made it onto my plate

As you leave you will receive a complimentary pot of Regent's Park Honey as a souvenir of your afternoon. I think this is a lovely touch.

Spa Treatment

After this mouthwatering experience I ventured downstairs to the newly re-opened Spa for the REN Manuka Honey Facial. The friendly team were there to greet me and put me at ease. I haven't had a facial before so wasn't sure what to expect. I was taken to a large room with two beds in it, although I was alone. The lighting was atmospheric and the music playing, soothing. I had the most relaxing experience whilst I was cleansed, exfoliated, massaged and pampered with minerals and essential oils.  A truly sleep inducing detox that left my skin feeling the cleanest and softest it has ever felt. I literally glowed as I waltzed out of The Athenaeum.

I will definitely be attempting (time permitting) to have regular facials from now on.

I did have a peek at the other spa facilities whilst I was there and found two fantastic hot tubs which were incredibly inviting  (sadly I did not have my swimming costume), a steam room, and the obligatory gym equipment. 

I honestly cannot think of a nicer way to spend an afternoon. I urge you to act fast and book as these fantastic offers are only available to the 31st January!

The Athenaeumʼs Honey-Tea is priced at £39 for two people including a glass of honey fizz. Reservations can be made by calling 020 7499 3464. Quote 'honey offer'

The Spa Honey Facial (£100) is currently on special offer - book one and the second is complimentary. Reservations can be made by calling 020 7640 3347 or email spa@athenaeumhotel.com, 72 hours in advance quoting' honey offer'.


www.athenaeumhotel.com