London Health & fitness
Hard living requires perfect pampering – and there are plenty of options to choose from. The day spa trend is alive and well in London with The Refinery (for men) and The Sanctuary (women) highly recommended by those in the know.
Londoners like to keep fit and trim. Gyms are available in every neighbourhood for those who want to keep their muscles toned while away from home. Day rates are available if you’re only in town for a brief period – just ask at reception.
Chariots Sauna
London’s largest chain of saunas. The main branch in the Liverpool Street area is one of Europe’s biggest (no pun intended) complete with a swimming pool and multiple steam rooms, wet and dry saunas. The Streatham branch is taken over by the bear community on Tuesday nights. Fairchild Street, EC2 and branches. Tel: 020 7247 5333.
Paris Gym (www.parisgym.com)
The sole gay-only gym in the city. All your basic cardio and weights equipment is on offer. 73 Goding Street, SE11. Tel: 020 7735 8989.
The Refinery (www.the-refinery.com/)
A men-only day spa in the middle of Mayfair. Facials, massages, beard trims and waxings are all available. The only spa offering the exclusive line of men’s Shu Uemura products outside of Japan. 60 Brook Street, W1. Tel: 020 7409 2001
The Sanctuary (www.thesanctuary.co.uk)
A day spa for ladies only. Their treatments are much in demand along with their signature spa product line. 12 Floral Street, W1. Tel: 0870 770 3350.
Soho Gyms (www.sohogyms.com)
While this gym chain isn’t gay, it’s very gay-positive with branches in all the major gay corners of the city. Great for those in need of a real workout. 12 Macklin Street, WC1 and branches. Tel: 020 7242 1290.
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