A little bit of heaven
As London's famous Sanctuary Spa turns 35, Harriet Walker finds out that there's more to success than its best-selling products
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.You'll no doubt know Covent Garden's Sanctuary spa from the best-selling range of products that is available across the country – but you might not know the history of the spa itself, which celebrates its 35th birthday this month.
Originally built in 1977, the ladies-only retreat was a gift of sorts from the choreographer Gary Cockerill to his ballerina wife, a place where she and her colleagues could relax and unwind between performances at the nearby Royal Opera House.
Since then it has established itself as an important part of the area, used as the backdrop to films (such as The Stud, starring a scantily clad Joan Collins) and rock'*'roll parties – Debbie Harry famously launched an album there in Eighties.
But it's more famous these days for being a place of tranquillity and calm, a moment out from the bustling streets that surround it, with several indoor pools and lounges (including the sleep lounge, which promises the best shut-eye of your life), a koi carp pond and even a resident parrot.
Treatments range from classic facials and massages to manicures and pedicures, as well as mud masks and body contouring. Less traditionally holistic approaches also include a glass of bubbly and a slap-up meal at the restaurant – a winning formula that means it's often booked up several weeks in advance.
So if you'd like to celebrate a special day at
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments