Zoe Louise Cronk | Cover Image © Petrina Tinslay

A beautiful colourful spread at Redemption, London. | © Zoe Louise Cronk

A mouthwatering plate at Redemption London. | © Zoe Louise Cronk

Healthy Cafes in London

Redemption

Redemption had been all over my social media feeds for a while now; a stand out as not only one of the best vegan restaurants in London, but just a great London restaurant, full stop. Everywhere I went, people were talking about how good the food was (“despite being 100% vegan”) so it was only a matter of time before I went to see what all the fuss was about. Let me tell you, I was not disappointed. In fact, my high expectations were far exceeded. Nestled in an unobtrusive corner of Notting Hill (with another location in Shoreditch), the motto at Redemption is ‘spoil yourself without spoiling yourself’.

It’s the brainchild of two female entrepreneurs and is often deemed London’s healthiest restaurant, widely renowned for serving up utterly delicious vegan, sugar-free and wheat-free dishes, as well as alcohol-free wine and cocktails. I took along a fellow non-vegan foodie to sample their delights on a very sunny Tuesday evening, and it had an enticingly quiet and relaxed atmosphere.

With the waiter’s guidance we ordered a selection of dishes to share, of which the standouts were undoubtedly the grilled aubergine with a tahini and tangy miso glaze sprinkled with pomegranate seeds, and the pulled barbecue jackfruit burger that still has me salivating. Having never tasted jackfruit before, I was unsure what to expect but my oh my – it was an absolute explosion of flavour that has to be tasted to be believed. Our meal also included the protein and fibre-packed ‘buff burger’ and the kale Caesar side salad – little did we know how huge the portions would be. Of course we couldn’t leave without sampling the irresistible-looking banoffee pie made with sticky medjool dates and topped with coconut yoghurt. Let’s just say we were extremely pleased that our sweet tooth took hold and ordered dessert of its own accord, as it was truly delectable.

All in all, when it comes to healthy cafes in London, Redemption is a fantastic pick. It’s casual and inviting with a reasonably priced and well thought-through menu that will make you consider going vegan from the very first bite. 

Related: Como Metropolitan Hotel London

Picky Wops

The best thing about healthy eating in this day and age is that it no longer means being restricted to a lettuce leaf without dressing and plain chicken on the side. Today, a balanced diet can be as much a treat for the taste buds as it is for your waistline – and that’s where Picky Wops comes in. This award-winning 100% vegan pizza place is the answer to all your plant-based prayers.

Their secret is in the bases. They hand-mix their own speciality flour combinations such as turmeric, Spirulina or burned wheat, and the staff do a great job at explaining the differences in taste, texture and nutrients. For example, we’re told the Kamut option is made with an ancient grain called Khorasan wheat that’s high in protein, very light and easily digestible. Then comes the time to pick your toppings which is, after all, the most important bit. When I visited with my meat-loving companion (the best taste tester for a London vegan restaurant!) we went for one with aubergine, tomatoes, cashew nut ‘camembert-style cheese’ and rocket leaves, and another with a ‘soft cheese-style’ stuffed crust plus jalapenos, mushrooms, smoky coconut ‘cheese’ and Seitan ‘sausage’. Hand on heart, they were both absolutely delicious. Neither of us missed the meat and we loved the lightness of the bases that didn’t leave us feeling heavy or overly full. Unlike other free-from pizzas, this one isn’t trying to masquerade as traditional. They have put a healthy and vegan spin on a much-loved classic and come up with something that is equally as (if not more) enjoyable to devour, without the guilt.

The Fulham branch is very small and intimate and they also do takeaway for those sunny afternoons in the park or to take back to your hotel room. Alternatively, head south-east to their slightly larger branch in the trendy Peckham Levels. Both locations are BYO so don’t forget to pick up a beer or two en route.

Related: Best Yoga Studios in London

Pizza perfection at Picky Wops London. | © Zoe Louise Cronk

Zoe enjoys a delicious Middle-Eastern feast at Delicatessen, London. | © Zoe Louise Cronk

Delicatessen

Your mind may not automatically spring to lush and affluent Hampstead for gourmet Middle Eastern food, but allow us to expand your culinary horizons. Israeli fare has been growing in popularity for the last few years and becoming trendier as a result, with restaurants like Delicatessen – a relatively new neighbourhood-style eatery – promising to serve up modern Middle Eastern food that’s fit to burst with vibrant flavours. Boy do they deliver.

Upon entering, you’re instantly struck by the bustling, welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel like settling in for the long haul. The décor is what I would describe as rustic ‘desert chic’. It’s bright and airy with an entirely glass frontage and a few tables outside for those warm weather days. When we visited, at 2pm on a weekday, we were surprised at how busy it was so would highly recommend a reservation. There are plus points to this though; sneaking a peek at which dishes look the best on everyone else’s table before placing your order. When our waiter arrived, we looked first at the drinks menu (priorities) and perused the short wine list on which there’s a clear focus on robust reds to complement the rich dishes, before deciding on a cocktail. I can vouch for their Middle Eastern pomegranate-infused take on Sangria that was well worth a sip.

The menu itself is influenced by head chef Or Golan’s Moroccan and Lebanese heritage, and inspired by his time in both Tel Aviv and at London’s famed Ottolenghi. In true Middle Eastern dining style the dishes are mostly about sharing, with mezze-style plates like melt-in-the-mouth aubergine with tahini and figs, green falafel, and sashimi-grade Bluefin tuna served with anchovies and avocado; all three of which tied for first place in my book. We also chose the charred sweetcorn with chilli and vegan parmesan, a super creamy hummus with flatbread, and a beef carpaccio dish with truffles and artichoke that my dining partner raved about the whole way home. Don’t fancy sharing dishes? The main items definitely caught our eye too and you won’t be disappointed with the choice at hand; think sea bass with burnt tomatoes and tahini, old Jaffa lamb kebabs and 5-hour slow-cooked spare ribs. This is a menu that is well-researched and has been thoughtfully put together using only the freshest ingredients. The cacophony of extraordinary spices and bold flavours that we devoured complemented each other at every bite, so much so that I’m already planning my return. 

Related: One Aldwych Hotel, London

A tasty vegan meal at Tell Your Friends London. | © Zoe Louise Cronk

Tell Your Friends is one of London’s hottest Vegan cafes. | © Zoe Louise Cronk

Tell Your Friends

Sought-after location? Tick. Boutique feel? Tick. Food that manages to be both nutritious and delicious? Tick. There’s not much you can say about Tell Your Friends – a new-ish London vegan hot spot in Parsons Green – that doesn’t tick some kind of box.

The vibe is casually classy, and unlike some vegan joints they don’t shy away from alcohol, meaning you can enjoy a virtuous meal and still savour that well-earned glass of wine. After being there for ten minutes, I realised this was a restaurant of two halves. The front is almost conservatory-like with an abundance of glass and a gold/white colour scheme set off by what looks like the original patterned floor. Sit in this front half to enjoy a little people-watching (think tiny dogs and expensive handbags) or head further in for a more intimate setting. Here in this back half, dark flooring and cozy raised booths are framed by a few pieces of industrial-chic furniture and a neon pink ‘Tell Your Friends’ sign on the back wall that simply screams ‘Instagram me!’ The rose gold cutlery and cactuses on the table were a nice touch, along with the pleasant soundtrack of upbeat 80s funk music that’s just loud enough to set the scene without demanding that any conversation must be bellowed.

Expect laid back but attentive service and menu recommendations sure to include the ‘chicken bites’ that come with a sticky and tangy hoisin-style sauce. Being a vegan restaurant, this wasn’t a specialty that we were expecting, but my goodness it was good. We sat there marvelling at how the ‘chicken’ in these bites could be anything but meat; so much so that I couldn’t resist asking the waiter what it really was. He delightedly informed me it was jack fruit and agreed that the taste and texture were sure to fool even the most sordid of carnivores. Other culinary delights to grace our table included Arancini balls filled with gooey cashew ‘cheese’, risotto rice and sun-dried tomatoes, and the Buddha Bowl full of fresh ingredients like smoked tofu, mange tout, cabbage, avocado and quinoa topped with a flavoursome sesame dressing. We also tried the made-to-share ‘Friends Board’ of which the piece de resistance was the ‘faux foie gras’ made with lentils. It was certainly tasty, but I soon wished we’d opted for the vegan ‘mac and cheese’ after seeing it arrive at the table next to us – it looked to die for. This moment of regret was soon eased however by the grand finale of a vegan salted caramel donut that was utterly delectable. Overall, the food was great, the place was cool and we liked that it had an eco-conscience. Not only is it vegan but you can also buy reusable ‘TYF’ coffee cups here too. Now, go and tell your friends.

Related: The Ultimate South Iceland Road Trip

Grangers & Co is the perfect healthy weekend brunch spot in London. | © Zoe Louise Cronk

Green goodness in the form of an Insta-worthy Matcha latte at Granger & Co. | © Zoe Louise Cronk

Granger & Co.

With a location in each corner of the capital, Granger & Co is something of an institution when it comes to healthy cafes in London. The brainchild of world-renowned relaxed foodie Bill Grainger, this much-loved chain hails from Australia and has other eateries in spots such as Sydney, Tokyo and Seoul. The vibe they’re going for is welcoming and friendly, and they’ve nailed it down to a tee. Whichever restaurant you choose, great food and a warm, unpretentious atmosphere are always guaranteed. We’ve satisfied our appetites in two of the four locations – Notting Hill and Clerkenwell – and while each has its own distinct charm (Clerkenwell feeling a little more upmarket while Notting Hill is a more intimate space), both gave us a whole lot of reasons to go back.

Enjoying Saturday brunch in Notting Hill, I selected the ‘Granger’s Green’ juice of apple, cucumber, ginger, silver beet and coconut water topped with chia seeds as the perfect healthy start to a lazy morning. If you’re more of a smoothie fan, my dining partner devoured the ‘Bill’s Raw’ smoothie (homemade almond milk, banana, raw cacao and agave) in less than five minutes, so I’d say that’s a pretty good recommendation. Unable to choose between dishes, we decided to share two big plates for our mains. The courgette fritters with halloumi, quinoa, buckwheat and green harissa-topped kale paired surprisingly well with the second dish of soft-shell crab, chorizo, poached egg and kimchi fried rice, and we genuinely couldn’t fault either the flavours or the presentation – they looked as good as they tasted. A matcha latte became the finale, and we left feeling satisfied without the need to waddle.

Related: The Ultimate Summer Travel Guide to Malta

Avocado Toast that’s almost too pretty to eat at Granger & Co. London. | © Anson Smart

When dining of an evening in the Clerkenwell branch, it was the tuna tartare with picked daikon that caught our eye to start, and it was just as melt-in-the-mouth as you’d expect. Always a fan of dining sharing style, we then chose the yellow fish curry with spiced butternut squash and brown rice, accompanied by a small plate of roasted cauliflower, saffron yoghurt and grilled corn, and a side of spring greens in chilli and garlic. It would have been rude not to conclude the meal with something sweet and we were soon fighting over the last bite of white chocolate and pistachio pavlova served with peaches, apricots, thyme and a smooth yoghurt cream. 

Our verdict? This is how food should be. Full of delicious, mouth-watering flavours that came from fresh, nutritious ingredients with a little bit of indulgence on the side. After all, if you’re paying to eat out then you deserve a little treat, right?

The Fit Traveller was a guest of these healthy cafes in London. As always, the words, opinions and tasting notes are authentically our own.

Granger & Co’s newest London branch in Chelsea offers chic design with Insta-ready dishes. | © Petrina Tinslay

Zoe Louise Cronk

Zoe Louise Cronk is a freelance writer and editor who left the corporate world behind to spend her days crafting ideas into articles and exploring new avenues of health and fitness.

When not writing or daydreaming, Zoe can be found planning the next tick off her travel bucket list.

Annie Scott

Total Chi in central London feels more like a spa oasis in the busy centre of town. Image © Annie Scott

Total Chi | 243 Baker Street, London

Small but perfectly formed, Total Chi is a tiny oasis of tranquillity in bustling central London. A relatively new joiner to the London fitness scene, it has 2 studios and offers yoga, reformer and mat Pilates 7 days a week. Wander past the daily queue for the Sherlock Holmes Museum next door and step into a white haven of all things good.

Total Chi feels more like a spa than a yoga centre. The staff is incredibly friendly, and its top-notch changing rooms are stocked with fluffy towels, Malin and Goetz products and even complimentary razor blades. Free bottled water is provided pre-class and don’t expect to even have to roll out your own mat. There’s a chill-out zone stocked with yoga magazines and thought-provoking books – and the juice bar offers clean drinks and snacks, as well as Monmouth coffee (in my opinion the finest coffee in London). The maximum class size is 8 – so classes are never crowded and it’s easy to ask for help or advice during a class.

Both yoga studios look out over a tiny Zen garden and I never fail to emerge refreshed and re-balanced. Classes on offer range from warm vinyasa to power yoga, kundalini, yoga for stress, pre-natal yoga, yoga nidra and even yoga for kids. The teachers are carefully vetted and the teaching is of an exceptionally high standard. A real find when it comes to the best yoga studios London has hidden away. 

Triyoga is a big name in the London yoga scene with five studios spread across the capital. Image © Annie Scott

Triyoga | Multiple Locations

From its beginnings in London’s fashionable Primrose Hill in 2000, Triyoga has grown to become the big daddy of the London yoga scene, boasting five yoga centres across the capital. With its distinctive purple branding and buzzing vibe, Triyoga really is a hub of all things mind, body and spirit, offering everything from osteopathy and massage to healthy lunches and even its own teacher training programme.

Virtually every style of yoga is taught here, and at all levels. Everyone is catered for from beginners to teachers. Mats are provided, although this is a busy centre and some are a little warn. If you have your own it’s worth bringing it.

Triyoga also offers mat and equipment pilates, barre classes and, most recently, Gyrotonic classes, a movement class using a “pulley tower”, that feels like a hybrid of reformer pilates with a yoga twist.

The centres also offer meditation and mindfulness classes and a wide variety of workshops, ranging from a few hours to a few days, through which you can deepen different elements of your practice, or just learn something new.

The treatment rooms cater for every need you can think of for mind and body, whether you’re looking for physiotherapy, acupuncture, reflexology, homeopathy, cognitive behavioural therapy, diet advice or even a massage or facial. Triyoga has excellent therapists and offers it all.

The Camden, Soho and Chelsea centres also have cafes offering healthy snacks or a post-yoga smoothie. And if you’ve forgotten your yoga pants don’t worry! Each centre also has its own shop, stocked with great quality yoga gear as well as skincare, books and even jewellery. Something for everyone.

The gorgeous boutique at Triyoga Chelsea. Image © Annie Scott

Indaba | 18 Hayes Place, Marylebone, London, NW1 6UA

I first discovered Indaba through its workshops – I love the variety on offer here. From gong baths, chanting and connected breathing, to yoga basics and Ashtanga introduction – all of yoga life is here. Which feels appropriate, given Indaba means “gathering”. I’ve had my eye on their various headstand courses for a while, as this particular skill still eludes me.

Indaba feels like a “proper” yoga centre. Friendly, clean and more of an authentic spiritual vibe than some of its more commercial feeling friends in London. Conveniently located behind Marylebone Station, you may wonder where you are when trying to find it – but once inside you’ll find a surprisingly spacious and welcoming space.

The centre also offers treatments and healing – from the traditional to the more “out there”, just reading the menu of options makes me smile. Head to Indaba for sports massage of hot stone therapy – or take the plunge with ancestral healing or transformational breathing. Indaba encourages you as far as you want to go on your spiritual journey. Namaste.

Yotopia | 13 Mercer Street, London

Simple and modern surroundings offering yoga and hot yoga in pretty Covent Garden. Covent Garden is a great area of yogis. A tourist mecca and shopping hotspot, the area as a great alternative culture if you know where to look. Crystal shops rub shoulders with high street chains, yoga studios are dotted around above the busy streets and nourishing organic food is never far away.

Yotopia is an excellent, straight-forward yoga studio. Lots of natural light and good clean equipment, functional changing rooms and great teaching. It offers a wide range of yoga styles and different levels, including an excellent beginners course. I took my first tentative steps on the mat at Yotopia when I was working nearby and really benefitted from the welcoming and encouraging atmosphere the studio promotes. Without this, I may not have continued what has been such a life-changing journey for me.

As well as daily classes, Yotopia offers a number of workshops, many of which focus on the spiritual side of yoga. Gong baths, mediation and chakra work are all on offer. A simple, elegant studio where things are just done well.

Good Vibes | Multiple Locations

Good Vibes focuses its attention on “Glow” yoga and pilates. The crux of this approach is the gentle heat of the classes, achieved using cutting-edge infrared heating, which encourages the body to open. The first studio in Europe to offer this technology, Good Vibes also use SAD lighting to improve one’s mood – an excellent benefit in the depths of the UK’s winter months! Although class sizes are large, there’s something about the atmosphere here that makes it feel cosy and intimate. The dark wood floors and great lighting make you feel tucked away in womb-like safety.

As the name suggests, these studios are all about positivity. Students are encouraged to focus on what feels good in the body, rather than worrying about achieving the perfect pose – which, for me, is what makes great yoga teaching.

The facilities are functional but good. Mats are clean, good quality and pre-laid out (so no awkward “where shall I put myself” moments) – but remember to bring a pound coin for the changing-room lockers.

Classes are busy so book in advance. Teaching is concentrated mainly on Vinyasa flow but other yoga styles are also on offer – including “yang and yin” and candlelit “bliss” classes for the ultimate wind down. The studio also offers mat pilates and “ballet burn”.

Practical workshops are also available – from meditation, arm balancing, and breathing, there’s a number of options to deepen your practice in a way that’s less “woo woo” than some of its more spiritual sisters. A friendly, warm, fun and positive studio.

Annie enjoys a post-practice green juice at Total Chi London. Image © Annie Scott

Annie Scott

Annie Scott is a freelance writer, communications pro and wannabe urban hippy. Since quitting corporate life you’ll find her saying yes to anything that terrifies her, lurking at the back of West London yoga classes and pretending to like kale.

www.anniescott.co.uk

Lucy Pearson | Cover Image © COMO Metropolitan

A bubbly welcome at the COMO Metropolitan London. Image © Lucy Pearson

COMO London

Nestled down a side street off of London’s hugely sophisticated Park Lane, COMO Metropolitan location is unbeatable, and undoubtedly one of the key attractions for visitors. After all, what could be better than waking up to expansive views of Hyde Park in the early morning autumn sun? A stone’s throw from Hyde Park Corner tube, the address is one of London’s most coveted, and guests are in a prime location for exploring London’s main attractions – from shopping on Knightsbridge’s stylish streets, to afternoon tea at London landmark The Ritz, to pounding the pavements of several of the city’s most beautiful parks.

The rooms at COMO Metropolitan fuse classic with modern chic. Image © Lucy Pearson

A Luxury Urban Escape

Our room was bathed in sunlight from its panoramic views across Hyde Park. Cleverly fusing contemporary with classic, the rooms were urban and stylish; sleek and minimalistic. Wonderfully generous in size, the bedroom had a king-sized bed with crisp white linen and touchscreen controls that did everything from operating the flat screen TV to closing the blinds. The long walnut desk and contemporary art offered an elegant edge, while the mini bar was equipped with everything you could want from a cosy night in, from coconut water to crisps.

The generous seating area in our room at COMO Metropolitan London. Image © Lucy Pearson

The bathroom features the type of rainfall shower that makes leaving almost impossible, and is well stocked with COMO Shambhala products; perfect for imagining you’re in some far-flung exotic destination. No sooner had we settled in out room than a bottle of bubbles on ice and a bowl of fresh fruit was sent to our room, and we enjoyed a glass of champagne and strawberries as my enjoyed a stunning sun set over Hyde Park.

Lucy enjoying the view over London’s iconic Hyde Park at COMO Metropolitan. Image © Lucy Pearson

Yoga, Meditation and Wellness

In keeping with the holistic ethos behind the COMO chain, health and wellness are both an integral and integrated part of any stay at COMO London. Offering guests an urban sanctuary in the heart of the city, rooms come equipped with yoga mats and bespoke yoga and meditation programs to guide guests through either an asana practice or meditation. The dedicated meditation channel offers both a morning and evening session created by resident expert Jody Shield to help guests energise for the day ahead or unwind for a peaceful night’s sleep. 

Set up for in-room yoga with hotel supplied mats and their bespoke yoga program at COMO Metropolitan London. Image © Lucy Pearson

The yoga channel offers guests a healthy way to either end one’s day or kick-start a morning. We set out our yoga mats for some downward dogging as the early morning light flooded the room, and it was certainly a memorable way in which to begin our day. It’s the touches like this that really set COMO apart from other hotels, and it’s the ease with which guests can encompass an element of health and wellness that make any stay with COMO unique. There is also a state-of-the-art gym at the hotel which guests are able to access 24 hours a day with a team of on site fitness experts offering both personal training and private yoga classes. Post work-out guests can enjoy the Chroma steam rooms as a perfect way to relax after a cardio or weight lifting session.

The 24-hour COMO Metropolitan London is state of the art. Image © Lucy Pearson

COMO Shambhala Urban Escape is the perfect place to spend an afternoon after a busy day of shopping in central London. Image © Lucy Pearson

COMO Shambhala Urban Escape

Shortly after our arrival, I made my way to the COMO Shambhala Urban Escape for an indulgent 105-minute facial. The on site spa has a dedicated retail space, with COMO Shambala products for sale, as well as the hotel chain’s COMO Shambhala Cook Book; full of healthy recipes for anyone wanting to recreate the foodie fare they sample while staying at COMO London. They have a wide range of treatments on offer, with everything from facials to massages to foot baths and beyond, and I enjoyed one of their bespoke Guinot facials. After a consultation with one of the therapists, in which we discussed my skin concerns and needs, my skin was cleansed, toned and moisturised with an array of Guinot products, leaving me with refreshed and revitalised skin. The facial offered the perfect amount of pressure to my tired and sun-worn skin, and the various techniques the therapist used, left it feeling immediately plumper and rehydrated. I was recommended not to wear any make up for the rest of the day, and so after enjoying a cup of herbal tea, retreated to my room for a quiet night in.

The incredible treatment space at COMO Shambhala Urban Escape, London. Image © Lucy Pearson

A Superior Dining Experience

The food at COMO London is an experience in itself, and ranges from the height of sophisticated indulgence, to the ultimate in healthy fare. The hotel features a number of dining options, from the Japanese-Peruvian restaurant Nobu, to the Met Bar which continues to be a cult classic featuring a unique cocktail menu and classic British cuisine served all day.

They also offer the healthful COMO Shambhala menu; boasting organically and locally sourced produce where possible, which is inspired by the living foods tradition. The specially developed COMO Shambhala Cuisine emphasises on a perfectly balanced mix of raw and cooked ingredients which ensures all food maintains the nutritional integrity of the ingredients such as essential enzymes, vitamins and minerals and allows you to benefit from their ‘life force’, thus increasing energy and general wellbeing. The food has a farm to fork approach, looks great, and tastes delicious. We ordered in room dining from the COMO Shambala menu, and chose the Raw Butternut pumpkin and macadamia nut pizza with tomato, avocado, mango & basil alongside the rye bread with avocado, vine ripened tomatoes, rocket and lime. Both our meals were beautifully presented, and tasted just as good as they looked. We then went through the evening meditation session, which offered the perfect way in which to end our night at COMO.

Farm to fork fare at its best at COMO Metropolitan London with a Raw Butternut pumpkin and macadamia nut pizza with tomato, avocado, mango & basil. Image © Lucy Pearson

For breakfast, we dined in the White Room, with views overlooking Hyde Park. A huge variety of food options are available, from Continental to English breakfasts, as well as an a la carte menu, and COMO Shambala options for those wanting a healthy start to their day. We shared the Zucchini rosti with smoked salmon, lemon scented ricotta cheese and dill (from the Shambala menu) and the Ricotta hotcakes with fresh banana almond chocolate sauce and salted caramel. To drink we tried the Muscle Mylk smoothie, said to speed recovery and reduce muscle. With banana, young coconut water, coconut meat, cinnamon, almond milk, flax seeds, dates and cocoa beans it was an idyllic sweet treat. The food tasted just as good as it looked, and provided the perfect fuel for a morning walk through Hyde Park.

The ultimate urban retreat, COMO Metropolitan is a luxurious sanctuary offering an unbeatable London location, away from the smog of the city. A holistic experience that will leave you refreshed, revitalised, satiated and zen, COMO Metropolitan is one of London’s hidden havens and a dream destination for anyone on a city break.

COMO Metropolitan London

Old Park Lane, London, W1K 1LB

Website | Check Prices & Availability

Lucy Pearson

Lucy Pearson is a certified bookworm, wanderluster, and qualified yoga teacher with a thirst for adventure and a love for life.

Lucy has her own blog, The Literary Edit, and also contributes to Stylist Magazine and Hip and Healthy.

thelitedit.com/

Lucy Pearson

Old world meets modern, luxury finishes at the stunning One Aldwych, Covent Garden, London. Image © Lucy Pearson

Covent Garden on Your Doorstep

Flanked by both the elegance of Bloomsbury and the hustle and bustle of Covent Garden, One Aldwych has everything guests could want on its very doorstep; from the cobbled paths and cubby-hole shops of the nearby Market Building, to the bright lights of the West End within arm’s reach. Despite its bustling locality, as soon as guests arrive in the lobby of the hotel, they are greeted by friendly staff, beautiful artwork and a bonhomie atmosphere from the lobby bar and throughout.

Soft pastel accents make the rooms at One Aldwych, London feel warm and welcoming. Image © Lucy Pearson

Cool, Comfortable and Luxurious Rooms

The rooms themselves have stunning views of London’s much-loved skyline and offer a serene hideaway that’s a perfect contrast to the busy streets outside. We stayed in a Deluxe Room and could even see the famous Shard building from our room. The beds are simple but plush with perfectly white sheets and doughy pillows; the bathtub is deep and luxurious, offset by a single decorative orchid.

Plush and modern bedding made our Deluxe Room a cosy retreat after a day spent shopping in Covent Garden, London. Image © Lucy Pearson

Simple, classic detailing at One Aldwych, Covent Garden, London. Image © Lucy Pearson

The perfect afternoon tea spot at One Aldwych, London. Image © Lucy Pearson

Indigo Restaurant

We dined at the hotel’s Indigo restaurant, on the mezzanine level overlooking the lobby bar, perfect for people watching. We began our evening with a cocktail. As creatures of habit we opted for the Bellini, despite the colourful array of cocktails on offer and followed with a three course dinner from the restaurant’s a la carte menu. The scallops were to die for, the fish was delicious, and the chocolate mousse with toasted coconut was the perfect end to our fine dining experience. The restaurant offers British, seasonal dishes, all of which just happen to be both dairy and gluten-free, meaning they cater for all manner of taste buds; and with knowledgeable and friendly staff you can rest assured that you’re in safe hands.

Indigo at One Aldwych showcases seasonal ingredients sourced from the British Isles with every dish gluten and dairy-free. Image © Lucy Pearson

You can choose to have breakfast delivered to your room for no additional charge, along with morning papers (something else the Brits do brilliantly). However, we opted to eat in the restaurant as it gave us beautiful views of an early morning London coming to life as commuters bustled along the streets on their way to work. Being in the heart of London it was only appropriate to go for the hotel’s full English, which came with a bakery selection of pastries, muffins and toast, as well as a hearty breakfast cooked to perfection.

The Full English breakfast at One Aldwych is the perfect meal to set you up for a day spent exploring London. Image © Lucy Pearson

The Health Club

After breakfast, I set off to explore The Health Club at One Aldwych, which is as lavish and luxurious as one would expect. Boasting a sixty-foot chlorine-free swimming pool complete with an underwater music system and mood lighting, it’s the kind of place that guests actually want to spend time in. I tried one of the facials and felt a world away from the city as my skin was cleansed and toned to achieve maximum luminosity. It’s rare that I go completely make-up free; especially in the middle of London, but my skin felt and looked so radiant after the facial that I didn’t even so much as feel the need for a lick of mascara.

The Health Club at One Aldwych has a 24 hour guest gym, equipped with Technogym equipment, a stretching and free weights zone. Image © Lucy Pearson

The sixty-foot chlorine-free swimming pool at The Health Club at One Aldwych comes complete with an underwater music system and mood lighting. Image © Lucy Pearson

Our time at One Aldwych was like many of life’s best things; short, yet sweet. A stylish stay in the heart of London’s theatre land, it offers guests the perfect place to lay their head while visiting the capital, whether for work, play, or something in between.

One Aldwych Hotel, London

1 Aldwych, London WC2B 4BZ, UK

WEBSITE

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The Fit Traveller was a guest of One Aldwych for this stay. As always, the opinions, words and images are authentically our own.

Lucy Pearson

Lucy Pearson is a certified bookworm, wanderluster, and qualified yoga teacher with a thirst for adventure and a love for life.

Lucy has her own blog, The Literary Edit, and also contributes to Stylist Magazine and Hip and Healthy.

thelitedit.com/

Lucy Pearson

Located on the iconic Georgian crescent, The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa boasts beautifully landscaped gardens. Image © Lucy Pearson

Visiting Bath

Ninety minutes from London by train, and nestled in the heart of the west country, Bath is rich with charm and tranquility; providing visitors with a complete antithesis to the hustle and bustle of London, while still retaining a sophisticated and cultural vibe. With a history steeped in literature and as the former home of literary heavy weights including Jane Austen and with a multitude of stylish boutiques, high-end shops and cosmopolitan restaurants, it’s no surprise that Bath is one of the UK’s most popular tourist destinations.

A cosy corner to relax with a book and view of the beautiful gardens at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, Bath. Image © Lucy Pearson

The beautifully styled interiors at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, Bath, UK. Image © Lucy Pearson

Plush interiors in a warm feminine palette in the Deluxe Suite at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, Bath. Image © Lucy Pearson

The Deluxe Suite

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa itself beautifully fuses traditional heritage with contemporary luxury and is set amidst picturesque landscape gardens that are reminiscent of an old English tale. With just 45 rooms, the hotel is the best sort of boutique, and offers everything from classic doubles to beautifully luxurious suites. We were lucky enough to stay in a Deluxe Suite with a stunning balcony that overlooked the hotel’s lawns and boasted an opulent open plan living area complete with a well-stocked bookcase and fireplace, which led to a twin bedroom and stunning marble bathroom. The hotel’s finishing touches are perfectly thought out; our names were handwritten on a card on our door, a Nespresso coffee machine was available in the room; the bathrobes and towels were fluffy, the toiletries luxurious, and trays of tea were brought to the room on request.

A twin Deluxe Suite at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, Bath. Image © Lucy Pearson

Luxury Spa and Bath House

One of the hotel’s main attractions is the swanky spa and swimming pool; which offers guests a 12 metre Roman bath-esque relaxation pool, a fitness room and a walled garden in which guests can relax. I tried the hotel’s Five Elements Aroma Massage, and after sitting down to a cup of herbal tea, was shown to one of the spa’s six treatment rooms. Staying true to its rich heritage, the spa uses locally produced brands, and the massage therapist used a combination of essential oils and hot stones to soothe every ache and ailment that our modern lifestyles can inflict on our upper bodies. I enjoyed a post-massage dip in the pool before lounging in the lazy afternoon sun, a rarity in Spring time in the UK, in the spa garden.

The stunning 12-metre Roman style pool at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, Bath. Image © The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa

Award Winning Dining

We enjoyed a glass of wine outside, while pondering over which of the options we should choose for our three course menu at The Dower House Restaurant. The dining is a traditional affair; the waiters possess an old school charm that perfectly match the hotel’s ambiance; the tables are pristinely presented and the menu is as mouth-watering as they come. We started with scallops, followed with poached stone bass, before finishing our evening with a beautiful chocolate tarte that tasted as good as it looked. A cup of  herbal tea before bed made for the perfect end to a relaxing day and returning to our beds turned down and robes and slippers laid out was certainly in keeping with the bespoke and personalised treatment the hotel is so loved for.

The melt-in-your-mouth scallops at The Dower House Restaurant at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, Bath. Image © Lucy Pearson

Breakfast was as brilliant as one would expect. Freshly squeezed juice (we chose the green that was made up of ginger, celery, apple and spinach), a buffet of seasonal fruits and pastries, yoghurts and fruit compotes were on the menu. I opted for the scrambled egg and smoked salmon, which was the fluffiest I’ve ever tried, followed by the waffles with cinnamon sugar and banana. Add in a selection of morning papers and piping hot pots of tea, and you truly have a breakfast of the best kind.

Traditional tea service is available on request at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, Bath. Image © Lucy Pearson

Soon after breakfast we ambled into Bath where we spent a few hours browsing the city’s many shops, before returning to the hotel for a final pot of tea in the gardens. Leaving was certainly bittersweet; the hotel is undoubtedly one of a kind and truly deserving of its five-star status. It’s not often a stay is as seamless and smooth as our time at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa. From the wonderful staff, for whom no request was too much, to the beautiful rooms, period-style interiors and all-round wonderful ambience. Truly Britain at its very, very best, few places do palatial indulgence and old school heritage quite so well as The Royal Crescent.

The beautiful gardens at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, Bath. Image © Lucy Pearson

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, Bath

16 Royal Crescent, Bath, UK

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The Fit Traveller was a guest of The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa for this stay. As always, the opinions and words are authentically our own.

Lucy Pearson

Lucy Pearson is a certified bookworm, wanderluster, and qualified yoga teacher with a thirst for adventure and a love for life.

Lucy has her own blog, The Literary Edit, and also contributes to Stylist Magazine and Hip and Healthy.

thelitedit.com/

Lucy Pearson | Cover Image © Jez Batch

The stunning countryside setting for No 1 Boot Camp in Norfolk, UK. Image © Jez Batch

Given that I was attending No 1 Boot Camp at the very last-minute, the eve before departing for Norfolk was spent hurriedly shopping for the necessary gear – sports bras, leggings, work out tops, lounge wear, and two pairs of trainers – one for working out, one for the afternoon hikes, towels and an outdoor jacket – which, due to unseasonably warm weather throughout the week I didn’t end up using.

Just over 90 minutes on the train from London, followed by a 25-minute taxi ride, I stared wistfully at the bars of chocolate lining the supermarket shelves before making the final leg of my journey to No 1 Boot camp, mentally preparing myself for six days of seriously healthy living.

Beautiful outdoor setting for weights sessions at No 1 Boot Camp, Norfolk UK. Image © Lucy Pearson

Welcome and Weigh-in

Upon arrival on the Saturday afternoon, I was shown to my room before meeting the two trainers for my weigh-in. It was a comfy double with a billowy bed and an en-suite bathroom. While weigh-ins come pretty low down on my list of things I enjoy doing, the two trainers quickly put my mind at ease as we discussed goals for the week before measuring my bust, waist, hips, arms and thighs and getting on an InBody machine that reported my BMI, weight, fat percentage, muscle mass and metabolic rate. That evening, I met the rest of the boot campers over a delicious dinner of chicken with vegetables and quinoa before retiring to bed early, ready for the following day’s activities.

Lucy Pearson working hard during an intense strength training session at No 1 Boot Camp, Norfolk, UK. Image © Jez Batch

The No 1 Boot Camp Program

As something of an early riser, and having prepared myself for a torturous week, I was pleasantly surprised to find out that the day started at 7.30, with morning mobility, followed by spin. An early morning small snack of walnuts and dates was provided to fuel our work out, and after spin we were given over an hour to enjoy breakfast and carry out any personal admin.

While morning mobility and spin took place every day, the rest of the activities varied on a day-to-day basis. On the first day, we carried out a fitness test, which was for all intents and purposes one of the hardest parts of the week and certainly brought out my competitive side. The boot campers were split into pairs and had to run two laps of the track (which was approximately 200m) before doing 50 sets of ten exercises including weighted squats, lunges, star jumps, and, of course, dreaded burpees, before finishing with a final two laps of the track. Suffice it to say that by the end of it the entire team was much in need of our mid-morning fuel.

On the days that followed our fitness test, we did a number of team games and mixed cardio with resistance training to ensure a full body work out. Prior to lunch we often had an hour of boxing; giving all those involved a new-found respect for the sport. From upper cuts to right hooks, we were put through our paces each and every day, and after just one session I could feel my arms increasing in both strength and tone.

The bulk of the hard-core exercise was done in the morning, meaning that each afternoon was spent hiking across either the nearby beach, or at the Queen’s beautiful estate at Sandringham. I was expecting to be sore every morning, but the hikes certainly went a long way towards stretching out our overworked muscles, and on returning to camp we had a fifteen to twenty-minute stretch session every day before sitting down to a team meal.

Afternoons at No 1 Boot Camp were spent hiking to the nearby beach or the Queen’s beautiful estate at Sandringham. Image © Lucy Pearson

Delicious Food for Fuel

One of my biggest fears was that we would be deprived of food during the boot camp, but the meals alone were reason enough to try No 1 Boot Camp. Breakfast varied from porridge with blueberries, flaked almonds and strawberries, to poached eggs and Portobello mushrooms, and flourless pancakes with crème fraiche, with our mid-morning fuel was anything from a peanut butter protein smoothie to smoked salmon and cucumber on rye bread. Lunch was a tasty affair; the tuna, bean and avocado salad was a firm favourite of mine, as were the chicken fajita wraps. We usually stopped mid-way through our hikes for our afternoon snack. It ranged from a home-made seed bar to rice cakes topped with peanut butter. Dinners during my stay included fish pie, smoked mackerel, and sea bass with sweet potato. It took some getting used to not having access to food as and when I pleased, but the food itself left me satiated and satisfied after each and every meal, so much so that I pestered the chef for a number of recipes during my stay.

The menu at No 1 Boot Camp is fresh, hearty, delicious and designed to fuel, no restrict. Image © Jez Batch

The Results

As I left the camp on Thursday evening rather than Saturday morning, I essentially got my results two days earlier than I would have done otherwise – as they were taken on Thursday morning, after four full days of boot camp. It can be easy to go in comparing oneself to others, and measuring both your inch and weight loss against theirs – something I was certainly guilty of. I was worried that there would be little difference after just four days, and consequentially was delighted to have found that I had lost 5 lbs, as well as 2 ½ cms around my waist and my arms. My BMI and body fat percentage had both dropped, and while my measurements had actually increased around my bust, bum and thighs, the trainers reassured me that this was due to building muscle rather than fat.

An invigorating and intense experience, No 1 Boot Camp is a great place to visit whether you want to shift some stubborn pounds or kick-start a healthier lifestyle. The trainers were both motivating and encouraging, while being on the right side of strict, the team spirit was up-lifting, and the entire experience really pushed me to my limits in the best possible way.

No 1 Boot Camp

Norfolk | London | Ibiza

The Fit Traveller was a guest of No 1 Boot Camp for this retreat. As always, the opinions and words are authentically our own.

Lucy Pearson

Lucy Pearson is a certified bookworm, wanderluster, and qualified yoga teacher with a thirst for adventure and a love for life.

Lucy has her own blog, The Literary Edit, and also contributes to Stylist Magazine and Hip and Healthy.

thelitedit.com/

Emma Esslemont

Healthy Honeymoon: The Daylesford Farmhouse was at the top of Emma’s healthy eating hit list for London. Image © Emma Esslemont

London

It took less than a few days to fall a little in love with this winter wonderland. Writing a to-do list for London could be never ending. Exploring Oxford and Regent Street is a must, Notting Hill is super cute and they have great markets and there are always lots of shows on at West End which is an experience in itself. Then there is the British pub scene, steak by an open fire never tasted so good. One of the keys to a successful visit to London is to master public transport. We tended to use the tube or go by foot but open top buses or city bikes are both great too.

London’s healthy food scene surprised me a little. Daylesford Farmhouse was one of the best. A farm-to-table eatery serving fresh, seasonal food sourced from their own farm. I thoroughly enjoyed my super green eggs benedict breakfast because we headed back for dinner the next day. From the grilled sea bass to the superfood salads and warm cider, everything was tasty and cooked beautifully. I also loved the little deli-style marketplace where you can stock up on healthy pantry essentials or order a meal to go.

The Good Life Eatery is a must visit for anyone who appreciates health-focused cuisine. The worst part about this place is that you literally want to order everything. Acai bowls, gourmet sandwiches, smoothies, warm protein salads and excellent coffee. Did I mention the selection of guilt free desserts? This will be one of my first stops when I head back to London.

I always tend to find myself at farmers markets when I travel, I love seeing the different produce and it’s usually when you stumble across the tastiest morsels! If you are anything like me, The Borough Market will actually blow your mind. Do yourself a favour and don’t eat before you visit as there are so many great food stalls, not to mention samples of cheese, meats, fresh produce and mulled wine. It’s like a big open air food safari!

Bath

Bath is a really cool city about two hours out of London. A great ‘wellness experience’ was visiting the Thermae Bath Spa. Submerge yourself in open hot thermal rooftop baths rich in minerals such as calcium and magnesium whilst taking in the beautiful skyline. Then head to the Aroma Steam Rooms; four chambers with different cleansing scents. There are also massage and spa services available as well as the Springs Cafe Restaurant and tidal pool.

We said farewell to England and headed for France and Italy, two countries that are renowned for pizza, pasta and wine. This made me somewhat nervous about what to expect when it came to healthy food choices. I was however pleasantly surprised, they aren’t exactly spoilt for choice like we are in Sydney but there is definitely room to make healthy choices at most places you eat.

Healthy Honeymoon: Best seat in the chalet in Val d’Isère, France. Overlooking the snow covered alpine village nestled in the valley. Image © Emma Esslemont

Val d’Isère, France

Ski villages have this amazing feel to them, and Val d’Isère had honeymoon written all over it! It was one of the most romantic places I have ever been too. We skied, we ate, we skied, and then we ate some more. It was the perfect balance between fitness and food, now that’s my kind of holiday!

Healthy Honeymoon: The happy couple’s post-nuptial trip took them to the winter wonderland of Val d’Isère, France. Image © Emma Esslemont

Given I’m a huge foodie you can imagine how excited I was to discover a health focused kitchen smack bang in the middle of the village. The Arctic Café serves an amazing menu of nutritious food. Naturally,  I went there most days! My go-to meal was the protein salad with chicken which came with roasted veggies and homemade hummus. Hot chocolates are a must at the snow, especially when they are white chocolate served with almond milk! Loved their smoothies and healthy mountain snacks too.

Healthy Honeymoon: Delicious and nutritious salads served up at The Arctic Cafe in the heart of Val d’Isère village France. Image © Emma Esslemont

There is also a really good fitness facility called Le centre Aquasportif right in the centre of the village. They have multi-visit passes allowing access to the pools, weights and cardio area. There is also a wellness centre, squash courts and yoga available.Generally, our workouts were only about 30-40 minutes and we stuck to the upper body as our legs were getting more than a fair workout on the slopes!

Healthy Honeymoon: Lunching with a view across the Colosseum in Rome. Image © Emma Esslemont

Rome

Rome quickly secured its place as one of my favourite cities in the world. We spent our days meandering the streets soaking in as much of the history and culture as we could. As a tourist, I love to walk, we stayed two-minutes walk from the Pantheon which was a good central location to get to all the main sites.

We ate mostly at traditional Italian trattorias that we stumbled across whilst sightseeing. The Italians are so passionate about their food and we discovered that it’s actually quite easy to make healthy food choices as long as the menu comes with an English translation!

Healthy Honeymoon: Wandering the markets and perusing the local fare is a great way to see the sights and get a little exercise. Image © Emma Esslemont

Healthy Honeymoon: Escape from the crowds at Ginger Restaurant. Image © Emma Esslemont

I’m highly recommending one café called Ginger. It has beautiful, modern décor and a really cool vibe to it. If the weather allows, sit street side and people watch, it’s what you are meant to do in Rome and it’s quite fascinating. Sip coffee or an Aperol spritz and you will totally look like a local. This healthy haven serves salads, smoothies, fresh juices and many more nourishing dishes made with mostly organic, locally sourced ingredients. It was a very, very welcome change from the pizza and pasta menus we were used to.

My one piece of advice? There is so much to see in Rome from local street markets to the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain so make sure you have a little bit of a plan so you don’t miss out on anything. Oh, and seriously do not leave without trying authentic homemade gelato. It will change your life.

A European winter is a very special, unique adventure and I loved every stop on our European honeymoon itinerary. You know what they say though? There is no place quite like home and the Sydney Sunshine on my face did feel pretty damn good!

Emma Esslemont

Emma Esslemont is a physiotherapist, personal trainer, wellbeing blogger.

She is a self-confessed fitness and food fanatic with a passion for living a healthy lifestyle and helping others to do so too.

Morning light hitting the house at Middle Piccadilly Rural Spa Retreat. Image © Skye Gilkeson

By Skye Gilkeson

The Setting

Middle Piccadilly is an unassuming property, surrounded by lush green gardens and paddocks, located down a typical country lane in Dorset. The original thatched roof house dates back to the 17th Century. Dominic’s parents, Eliana and Gerry Harvey began the retreat in 1975. Dominic and Lisa now run the retreat. 

Morning frost in the front garden at Middle Piccadilly Rural Spa Retreat. Image © Skye Gilkeson

One of the guest and treatment wings at Middle Piccadilly Rural Spa Retreat. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Middle Piccadilly Rural Spa Retreat is set within two acres of lush gardens and green grounds. Image © Skye Gilkeson

The five rooms on site range in size.We stayed in a comfortable room with a four poster bed, dresser, organic coffee and tea and Damana organic bath products. All rooms are modestly decorated and one has an ensuite (ask for this room when booking if you need your own bathroom). The other rooms, like ours, have access to a large shared bathroom. Guest rooms, treatment rooms, a reading and multimedia room and the Starhouse are spread throughout a few different buildings on the property. Each area has been decorated to promote calm, comfort and a “home away from home” feel that the retreat aims to achieve.

Rooms at Middle Piccadilly Rural Retreat and Spa are cosy and comfortable. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Cosy country touches are a part of the decor at Middle Piccadilly Rural Spa Retreat. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Guests are supplied with Damana organic bath products. Image © Skye Gilkeson

The Schedule

This retreat is unique. It’s not a five star resort. It doesn’t run like a hotel at all. Taking a maximum of nine guests at a time, there is an intimate, personal feel to Middle Piccadilly. Unlike most retreats, there are no expectations to be met here in terms of activities or treatments. If you are after a luxury resort style retreat with a rigid schedule and strict rules, this isn’t the place for you. Instead, it’s a case of choose your own healing adventure at Middle Piccadilly with the team there to gently guide you down your chosen path. 

Grab a fresh juicy apple on the walk along the path to the Star Room at Middle Piccadilly Rural Spa Retreat. Image © Skye Gilkeson

When it comes to your time, you spend it as you wish. If you want to indulge in a digital detox, the main reading room offers cosy couches, a gorgeous view of the garden, a wood fire, a full bookshelf and most importantly, lots of peace and quiet. If you need to keep in touch with the outside world, the multimedia room (and some guest rooms) have wifi access and the option to watch DVDs. The Starhouse an wooden bale is located offers a space to meditate or practice yoga in a quiet setting among the apples trees. If you have a little more energy there are endless country paths and roads for a country run, ride or stroll. We found ourselves discovering a new back road each day on our running route. 

The Starhouse at Middle Piccadilly Rural Spa Retreat is the perfect place for to meditate and practice yoga. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Yoga mats at the ready in the Starhouse at Middle Piccadilly Rural Spa Retreat. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Exploring the quiet country roads around Middle Piccadilly is a great way to get to know the local area and get some exercise. Image © Skye Gilkeson

The Food

Meal times are the only part of the day that is universally scheduled at Middle Piccadilly. Guests converge on the communal table in the kitchen three times a day. The conversation usually begins with each person explaining the motivation for choosing a rural retreat in the middle of the English countryside. Each guest’s reason is different; some need a break from work, others a break from the kids and others some time for healing. As with most retreats, the common theme is that everyone here is taking some valuable time for self reflection and self care and each guest is supportive and respectful of the others’ goals. 

Fresh garden salad at Middle Piccadilly Rural Spa Retreat. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Guests at Middle Piccadilly choose between a vegetarian, raw food or juice cleanse plan. Of course, you can move between one and the other, depending on how you feel you are progressing during the stay. Dominic is the retreat’s chef and he prepares each of the meals, specific to each person’s preferences. At each sitting guests oooed and awed over the colourful creations, trying to work out what was in Dominic’s delicious recipes. Thankfully, he is working on a recipe book so guests will be able to get to work to recreate his dishes when they return home.

Zucchini soup at Middle Piccadilly Rural Spa Retreat. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Local cheese and fresh baked bread for those who need a little extra at lunch time. Middle Piccadilly Rural Spa Retreat. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Fresh fruit is kept in the kitchen for hungry guests. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Fresh, juicy apples await hungry guests in the garden at Middle Piccadilly Rural Spa Retreat. Image © Skye Gilkeson

We opted for the vegetarian menu and taste tested a little of the raw food too. The vegetarian food was delicious. Our first evening we ate ratatouille with potatoes, a nut burger and spinach. I tried a bit of the raw vegetable curry with cauliflower, parsnip and macadamia rice. It was amazing. For dessert, the vegetarian option was 100% chocolate cake and the raw equivalent; a raw chocolate cake. Both cakes were melt-in-your-mouth incredible.

The incredible raw chocolate cake at Middle Piccadilly Rural Spa Retreat. Image © Skye Gilkeson

The Treatments

The treatment list is vast at Middle Piccadilly Rural Spa Retreat, particularly given the group they take as one time is small. The list ranges from the simple therapeutic options to the deeply spiritual; everything from a simple holistic or hot stone massage to organic facials and scrubs orShamanic healing is on offer. During our stay I tried two treatments, the Spiezia Hand on Heart and the Shamanic Healing. 

Hand on Heart

Hand on Heart is a relaxing treatment that focuses on clearing energy blockages in the chakras of the body using a combination of Reiki healing and gentle massage on the pressure points of the hands and feet. Practitioner Claire Pateman began the treatment with a sage clearing, followed by Reiki healing and continued to work on massaging my hands and feet in a circular motion around my body. There were moments I drifted off into sleep but I felt very calm at the end of the massage. 

Shamanic Healing

Shamanic Healing is for the spiritually adventurous. If you are open to something a little outside of the realm of an aromatherapy massage, this could be a good one to try. You have to approach a Shamanic Healing session with an open mind as the practitioner calls upon otherworldly help to treat emotional and physical ailments. Eliana Harvey, one of the retreats founders and Dominic’s mother took me for my Shamanic Healing session. It was quite an intense experience but a very interesting one and I found Eliana to be very intuitive.

Simple and comfortable treatment rooms are spread throughout the farm at Middle Piccadilly Rural Spa Retreat. Image © Skye Gilkeson

It’s easy to see why many of Middle Piccadilly’s clients are repeat guests. The retreat offers a comfortable, laid back place to rest and recharge without the pressures that some might encounter with rigorously scheduled detox programs or high intensity health retreats.

Thank you to Middle Piccadilly for hosting The Fit Traveller during our stay at the retreat.

Middle Piccadilly Rural Spa Retreat

Middle Piccadilly, Holwell 

Sherborne, Dorset DT9 5LW

+44 0 19 63 23468

relax@middlepiccadilly.com

website

A dresser full of thank you cards in the kitchen at Middle Piccadilly Rural Spa Retreat. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Skye Gilkeson

Skye is the founder and editor-in-chief of The Fit Traveller.

She is a journalist, writer, photographer, intrepid traveller and a former personal trainer with a passion for helping others reach optimal health.

As a TV journalist and producer, Skye has worked for household names such as 60 Minutes, Sunrise, TODAY and Nine News. She has also written for Women’s Health, Fodor’s Travel and Yahoo7 Travel, among many others.

Equally comfortable in a 5-star resort or hiking a far-off mountain, Skye loves the unexpected and enriching life experiences that each trip brings and can often be found in a backstreet chatting to locals with her camera in hand.

Skye is based in Sydney, working to master the balance between motherhood and her appetite for adventure.

Read more about Skye’s story here.

thefittraveller.com/