London's best day spas

Whether you live in London or are just visiting, day spas are a great way to work out the kinks, beautify your body and relax your mind.

Choose the type of experience you're looking for, or browse them all for the latest treatments and trends. Reported by Catherine Archer, Ronita Dutta, Jennifer Howze, Joy Iverson and Tara King.

• trendy
• posh
• classic
• budget
• alternative

The scene
Bliss was born in New York City and its vibe is pure Manhattan. On the ground floor, crisply dressed customers sit at four mani-pedi stations, getting their rough edges sanded while leafing through magazines or sipping smoothies. Around them the store buzzes with shoppers. Downstairs, therapists perform services like the Quadruple Thighpass (an anticellulite treatment), Enwrapture (an essential oil wrap) and Muddsage (a mud rub and salt scrub). The spa is compact - best suited to treatment junkies than socialise-and-spa groups.

Star treatments
The spa is renowned for its oxygen facials, reputed to leave skin glowing. I had the basic version (£90). As Ella Fitzgerald sang in the background, my therapist squeezed the spots on my chin and massaged in cream after cream (I lost count after dozing off). When I awoke, my skin looked less irritated and has stayed that way for days. Another tempting treatment is the Hangover Herbie - a complexion-booster and foot massage, served up with a smoothie. The stock of products ranges from Bliss cosmetics and skin-care potions to French brand Remède (the Translucent UK Coat for Faces, with SPF 30, is fabulous).

The cost
Some say this spa is too pricey, but we know folks who value a regular appointment over their favourite Manolos. The 70-minute facials start at £90, combination treatments start at £100 and most body treatments range from £70 to £120.

Agua at Sanderson
50 Berners Street, London W1T 2NG
Neighbourhood: West End
Tube station: Oxford Street
Tel: 0207 300 1414
www.sandersonlondon.com

The scene
Billowing white material drapes from ceiling to floor throughout Agua, on the second floor of the Sanderson hotel. As a result, the atmosphere at this Ian Schrager-designed spa is a combination of ethereal serenity and school sanitorium. The sounds of a burbling water feature and whispered murmurs carry through the space. While I waited in the central relaxation area, I kept imagining a well-starched nurse popping her head round the curtain to check on me. In fact, later during my visit, someone did. An American man fumbled into my private post-treatment booth, which contained a chaise longue and a mini-tv with headphones. Luckily I was well-covered and feeling so relaxed I wouldn't have minded a gaggle of tourists having a nose. It felt like just another element in the unreal atmosphere of this studiedly serene spa.

Star treatments
Massages are the most popular treatments here, especially with the international traveller scene. I had the Rose Renew Complete Face and Body (£130). After two hours of heavenly treatment, I wafted out floating on air and smelling of roses, with skin that glowed for days afterwards.

The cost
Massages and facials start at around £70, manicures at £30 and day packages at £145. The spa is pricey, but for an insight into one of the hippest hotels in London, it's worth it. Agua is exclusive but not snobby, and you are made to feel very welcome by the lovely staff.