Aire Ancient Baths, London Aire Ancient Baths has unveiled its first UK outpost in London, Megan Whitby dipped in to check out the new spa
photo: aire ancient baths
First-person
Aire offers a variety of postbath treatments
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photo: aire ancient baths
ince ancient times, public bathing has been an integral social and cultural unifier – bringing the powerful benefits of hydrotherapy to the masses. Drawing on this notion, Aire Ancient Baths launched its first bathing facility in Seville, Spain in 2000, taking inspiration from the best of Greek, Roman and Ottoman traditions. Today, it has a portfolio of eight urban locations in the US, Copenhagen and Spain and has just opened in London, UK.
First impressions Entering Aire Ancient Baths London I’m welcomed with the comforting smell of orange blossom – a signature component of all Aire experiences – and face-masked staff greet me with elastic wristbands indicating my spa package and bathing duration. Aire’s traditional blueprint is evident as the spa is set within a restored historical building that reimagines the classic tradition of thermal baths in a contemporary fashion.
The London experience has a unique charm and is housed in the restored 18th-century townhouse home of celebrated author JM Barrie who penned the childhood classic, Peter Pan. Following the pandemic, the industry has been keenly monitoring interest in spas and staff proudly reveal Aire London has been fully booked since launch day. During my visit, only eight bathers are allowed during a 120-minute slot, which I’m pleased to hear after feeling uneasy about crowded spaces. Since then, restrictions have lifted and 14 bathers are now allowed. Down in sleek, grey and uncluttered locker rooms I shower and put on my costume and a pair of bathing socks (as politely instructed), before being escorted through a dark wooden door and down a candle-lit staircase to the softly-lit subterranean bathing area. The spa’s heat and orange blossom fragrance wash over me as I’m given a brief tour of the facilities.
photo: aire ancient baths
Hydrotherapy hideaways
The baths offer seven hydrotherapy pools, for up to 14 bathers at one time 72 spabusiness.com issue 3 2021
The labyrinth-like, compact facility houses seven hydrotherapy pools, a steamroom and a relaxation room. It’s been restored with original features such as deep red vaulted brick ceilings with intricate details and these are cleverly juxtaposed by smooth pale marble and dark wooden furniture, illuminated by glowing candles and softly lit pools. Part of the spa’s design remit was to transport guests
