The Retreat at The Londoner Hotel in Leicester Square

If you're stretched for date ideas, whether it's a first date or an anniversary, you will struggle to find a better day out than down The Retreat at The Londoner in Leicester Square. A little slice of heaven in the heart of the West End. The subterranean wellness floor is a perfect blend of mystique and romance where everyone leaves feeling good and looking sharp. Replete with private poolside cabanas, a spa, gym, beauty salon and of course a groomers. 

Myself and Tuula had the pleasure of getting a his and hers treatment, but also got to enjoy the splendours of The Retreat and relaxed with complete abandon. 

I got to have a much needed Wash, Cut & Style by the brilliant and tenacious Joe Vipond. Joe Vipond has worked at some of the most reputable barber boutiques in England and Dubai, his passion, skill and affability earning him a regular and illustrious clientele. The grooming parlour is the ideal place for the modern gentleman to feel sharp and perfectly stylish for every occasion. 

The atmosphere was friendly, attentive and I loved the bulbous lighting around the mirrors. Made me feel very Hollywood. Joe was a fascinating guy to talk to. One of those gentlemen that you meet and think, 'you should have your own show'. Well in a way he does. His salon in The Retreat is very much his podcast, or YouTube, or what have you. It's where you can pass the time listening to great stories whilst having all your grooming needs catered for. This is Joe's domain and he is keen to make you feel as welcome as possible. Joe has developed a selection of services tailored to the modern gentleman. 

The Retreat offers a range of grooming practices, from cut throat razor to a little Londoner, a special cut for under 8's. Note if you're staying at the hotel in room appointments can also be made. Tuula enjoyed a full body massage called ‘Harmony: The Ritual’ and would fully recommend it.

I wanted to sign off this blog post by mentioning the gym. Oh my god. I didn’t use the gym but had a quick look and it was the gym of dreams. Everything you could possibly need for a workout is there and not only that, it’s top of the range and looks barely used. They have 2 Heavy Boxing bags (like the ones at KOBOX) and even a Ski Erg.

The Londoner – the world's first super boutique hotel. Welcome to an urban resort on the south west corner of Leicester Square. A collection of spaces, tastes and experiences brought to life across 16 storeys, curated to reflect the drama and elegance of West End life.

thelondoner.com