The Wordrobe’s Editor Sophie Ritchie indulges with a Thai-inspired evening at the luxurious Thai Square Spa in London
After a week of the usual busy chaos, paying a visit to Thai Square Spa, a subterranean day spa found just a short stroll from Trafalgar Square, couldn’t be more of a contrast to the hectic week I’ve just had.
The venue
Located in a regal Georgian building flanked by large, billowing flags, the spa’s friendly front of house staff are immediately welcoming and settle me in to the swish reception’s surroundings as I fill out my treatment form and tick the relevant boxes.
With an intriguing mix of Thai, Roman, and Turkish spa décor, this spa is ideal for something a little more unique than the typical contemporary cookie cutter surroundings. It immediately makes an impression with its opulent interiors and soothingly quiet atmosphere – a vast contradiction to the busy street filled with tourists outside.
Even the changing room has personality – with a bright red-tiled space filled with black lockers, gentle music, comfy robes, showers and a vanity station complete with two sinks and large mirrors.
As well as 12 treatment rooms (including a VIP Suite Treatment Room with private relaxation zone and steam room) there’s a lot to enjoy. Unwind in the jacuzzi, sit back in the sauna and indulge in the Himalayan salt room. Like many London spas, there’s no pool, but the lustrous relaxation room makes up for it with bed-like chairs and striking artwork.
I slip on my robe and black flip flops, then head outside to meet my therapist – who immediately chats away whilst leading me down the elegant staircase and through the dimly lit corridor to the treatment room.
The treatment
There’s a range of treatments to choose from at Thai Square Spa, from healing body therapies to pampering facials. I’ve opted for the Ritual Massage (Back, Neck, Shoulder). A traditional massage, this ‘ancient therapy releases tension in your upper back, neck and shoulders where physical and emotional stress often manifests.’ As someone who spends 75% of her time hunched over a laptop or dealing with Southern Rail trains, my back is knotted as they come, so this is perfect.
Ideal for anyone feeling stressed, this treatment uses special iMantara Andaman Aromasoul Massage and Body Oil for aromatherapy benefits – the smell fills the room with fragrant, delicate notes without being too potent.
Before the massage begins though, the experience starts with a spot of pampering in the form of a foot bath. My feet are gently washed in a basin filled with salts, lemongrass and warm water, before being exfoliated and left to dry. Move over Meghan Markle – this was my own princess moment.
Onto the massage – where the decadent relaxation really begins. She applies the perfect amount of pressure to ease the stress out of my muscles without causing any pain, moving her hands swiftly over my back and shoulders to knead the pressure points with expert precision.
20 minutes in, and I’ve already started dozing off, my entire back feeling ten times lighter than before I pulled on my robe. The hour-long treatment (sadly) ends before I know it, finishing with a soothing head massage.
My skin feels soft, supple and so much smoother – the previous aches have vanished, and I practically float back upstairs to the ruby red changing room to get changed.
The Wordrobe verdict
Serene and soothing – if you’re after excellent service in suave surroundings, it’s time for a visit to Thai Square Spa.
Make it happen
Where: 25 Northumberland Avenue, London WC2N 5AP
Wallet: The Ritual Massage (Back, Neck, Shoulder) massage costs £75 for one hour
Bookings: Email info@thaisquarespa.com or visit thaisquarespa.com to make a reservation
