One of London’s most unusual spas, this underground cluster of thermal baths is as atmospheric as it gets
London’s version of AIRE Ancient Baths – the thermal spa concept first born in Seville, where Roman-inspired baths sit within restored heritage buildings – had been on my radar ever since I’d visited the Chicago outpost. I’d been seriously blown away by its series of candle-lit, underground chambers, and I wanted to see how the one on my doorstep compared. I wasn’t disappointed. My AIRE Ancient Baths review offers a glimpse into the experience which you don’t want to miss.
As soon as I entered this historic Georgian building, tucked away on a street just off the Strand, I felt like I’d stepped into a secret enclave. Leather sofas and stone columns sat in front of a historic fireplace, leather-bound books filling rows of shelves, as the receptionist gently explained the history of the building; this was once the home of author JM Barrie, who wrote Peter Pan within its walls.
Mr Pan’s eternal youth seemed like a relevant theme as I pondered the healing powers of a good thermal bath, and was proffered a robe to don from the sleek changing area, where staff were only too eager to assist.
Exploring AIRE Ancient Baths
When it was time to begin, I was led down a staircase to reach the subterranean space, where flickering candles, vaulted brick ceilings and a subtle scent of orange blossom made the atmosphere the definition of romantic.
My spa host gave me a brief tour of the baths, explaining their different properties and varying temperatures. From there I was free to roam for the following 90 minutes, slowly working my way around the seven different pools, feeling increasingly zen as I drifted between each one (signs read ‘silence’, and I did my best to obey.)
My favourite was the Flotarium, a salty, float-boosting pool where I glided across the surface, starfish-like (there’s even underwater music), and the Balneum, a hydromassage bath that was essentially a giant, bubbling hot tub. A large Tepidarium heated to 36C was ample prep for the hotter, 40C Caldarium, while the eucalyptus-scented Vaporium steam room had me feeling as light and serene as it gets.
In need of an energy boost to save from falling asleep, I dipped into the 10C cold plunge for all of two seconds, and instantly, involuntarily broke the silence rules (staff were happily kind).
Towards the end, my host offered me a choice of cava or green juice, which was swiftly presented with a handful of chocolates, as I took in a further moment of calm in the heated, marble relaxation area (this can be booked as an optional add-on).
The Argan Nourishing Ritual
After experiencing the baths, I was whisked off for a spa treatment (there are nine treatment rooms here, with various therapies available). I’d chosen the Argan Nourishing Ritual, an indulgent, 30-minute massage that had me smothered head-to-toe in warm, fragrant Argan oil, shoulders gradually relaxing, mind uncharacteristically switching off as candles continued to burn.
I half-drifted off before a 15-minute jade roller face massage alerted me, cold jade waking me up as the therapist explained the healing properties of this revered gemstone – from increasing circulation to stimulating lymphatic drainage.
I certainly felt revived afterwards. And while I can’t yet confirm whether I achieved eternal Peter Pan youth in the two hours I spent here, I can confirm that I left feeling both serene and invigorated.
This is genuinely one of the most atmospheric, beautiful spas I’ve been to anywhere – and if you want to escape the London hustle for a couple of hours of pure, uninterrupted calm, I’d highly recommend a visit here. It’s actually quite magical.
Book an Experience
If you just want to experience the baths, a 90-minute Ultimate Bath ritual costs £140, including a DIY kit (with a renewing scrub, hydrating eye patches and drink). The Argan Nourishing Ritual costs £180, including the 90-minute bath experience.
You can also book a 60-minute Nightfall Baths experience at 10pm each night for £105, which comes with a glass of cava and chocolate treats.
There are also several other experiences available, including a very decadent wine bath. Let us know your thoughts on our AIRE Ancient Baths London review below, aswell as book your own experience in.
Find out more about AIRE Ancient Baths London at beaire.com
2-3 Robert St, London WC2N 6BH
