a pampering day in london

PSA to all of our London readers: this one is for you!

We have decided to curate a delightful self-care day around London that you can use as inspiration on your next visit to town.

London is our favourite -once upon a time European- capital because, despite its brilliant weather, it is particularly lively, astonishingly beautiful, and, you guessed it, marvellous for the wellness lover!

Let's get into it; we have a packed day ahead!

COFFEE RUN AND BREAKFAST

Granted, Hjem (Danish for "home") does not serve the typical English breakfast (we obviously all love it, hum), but this quaint coffee shop is located in a quiet street of Kensington, not far from Hyde Park (Queens Gate). They use organic tea and coffee and make their delicious pastries from scratch. Whether you fancy a smoothie, a sandwich or a cardamom bun for breakfast (maybe all three!), you will find something to enjoy. 

Hjem Kensington (walk-ins only) -

3 Launceston Place
W8 5RL

Kensington, London, UK

TIME TO GET ACTIVE

Now that we are fueled, it is time to indulge in another form of self-care, the one that hurts a bit. 

We are fond of Pilates, but only if the teaching style is Classical Pilates! Pilates has gained a lot of traction lately - for a good reason! It is low-impact yet a challenge for the mind and body alike. Nevertheless, we are sometimes left disappointed at the lack of mastery and discipline of a more "mainstream" teaching style. While there is nothing wrong with exercising to pop music, it is far removed from Pilates' conception of movement. 

For that reason, Exhale Pilates has won our hearts - they teach Contrology (Joseph Pilates's method) and focus on form above all else. The entire team is knowledgeable about the method and the body, dedicated to helping clients progress and, most importantly, caring and passionate about Pilates.

Collective mat, reformer and tower classes are offered from early morning to end-of-day. You can choose to book private and duet classes, too. 

They propose new client offers and the regular class is priced at £35.

Sign up for a class, and let us know what you think!

Exhale Pilates - Marylebone, Primrose Hill, North Finchley.

Find out more here.

SPLURGING ON CROCKERY IS SELF-CARE AS WELL, DON’T YOU AGREE?

Next up, we are bringing you on a different kind of retail therapy, the kind that feels like you are a grown-up who has their life together, you know? 

Enter the wonderful world of Daylesford Organic. You will find freshly curated produce from their farm in the grocery section of their shops and everything you need for your home.

Decor, candles, tabletop, cushions, vases, stationary and much more (like, a lot more) are sold, and you want to ensure you get it! 

You leave Daylesford feeling like an adult with everything figured out in life, only wondering what wine variety will pair best with your cheese. The feeling might be temporary, but we'll take it!

Daylesford Organic - find their locations around London here.

A TABLE FOR TWO, PLEASE

By now, your stomach might be growling. Thus, a pit stop at our favourite lunch spot is very welcome.

Whoever said healthy food was boring lied and needs to visit Ottolenghi! We could write essays about Yotam Ottolenghi's cuisine, yet the truth is, a picture is worth a thousand words, so we will leave you to it.

If you are unfamiliar with Ottolenghi, he is an Israeli-born British chef whose cooking style draws on his Middle Eastern roots. Vegetables are the main characters of the spectacle, but meat and fish are also on the menu. His cuisine is flavourful, zesty, and comforting, making you travel to foreign lands. It's nice to eat delicious, tasty food that is also fantastic for your health!

You can book a table at one of their restaurants, or come by their delis (Chelsea is our favourite), where you can sit (there will be a queue) or take away. 

Ottolenghi - addresses are to be found here.

SLOWING DOWN THE PACE

Are you tired yet? 

Good, let's quiet down at Studio Pottery. They offer a 3-hour introductory session for beginners, focusing on throwing, meaning working with clay on the wheel. This activity is particularly great for hyperactive minds because it encourages imagination and using hands to create objects. Classes are limited to twelve participants, so you are sure to get guidance throughout your journey, no matter if it is your first time or if you are advanced. We love that you can sell your creations and shop pieces from your fellow potters in their shop!

Workshops and private classes are offered upon request.

Studio Pottery London Shop (booking prior is mandatory) -

29 Ecclestone Place

SW1W 9NF

London

UNWINDING FROM THE DAY

For our last visit today, we wanted to take out to Sussex for dinner.

This British-local restaurant in Soho serves a brasserie-style menu in a farm-to-table fashion. The à-la-carte menu is full of sharable side dishes and quality meats. Trust them to pair your meal with exquisite wine. 

The smart, soft, inviting atmosphere and candlelight-lit tables make it the perfect spot for a date. 

Sussex -

63-64 Frith Street

London

W1D 3JW

0203 9237770

Book your table here. 

We are delighted to have spent the day showing you around our favourite London addresses!

Let us know if you have tried any.

Yours in travel,

HCG

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