After a long, wet, winter in London, spring is upon us which means the dawn of summer wardrobes. In order to get you sandals-ready, we have researched the best nail salons in London; whether you’re after a pampering pedicure or a masterful manicure, below we have created an essential guide to the best spots in London.
Visiting a nail salon can at times be repetitive but these venues have gone above and beyond to deliver more than just your average mani-pedi, they have created and curated a wonderful experience: from extensive drinks menus to highly skilled artisans offering intrinsic paint work, these spots are guaranteed to give you awesome results. Some you will have heard of, and some are new and avant-garde, but they all have one thing in common: they know how to deliver a mean manicure.
Cowshed, Primrose Hill
At Cowshed in Primrose Hill, relaxation is at the forefront of everything they do. From the soothing smells to the serene atmosphere, you are quickly transported from the hustle and bustle of the busy streets of London by one of the six therapists who offer bespoke treatments. The space is a spa as opposed to a conventional nail salon but their manicures and pedicures will have your sandals ready in no time. Oversize comfortable chairs are ideal for sitting back and relaxing as you receive a hand and foot massage from one of the expert therapists.
If time is on your side, you can make a whole day of it and indulge in a range of treatments Cowshed has on offer including massages, and facials before picking up some of the luxury Cowshed products which are all available to buy on site.
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Paint Nails, Oxford Circus
At Paint Nails, intricate designs are paired with delicious cocktails making it a must-visit before a night on the town. The salon offers an extensive menu to choose from to inspire you to push the boundaries of what a traditional manicure is. The impressive aesthetic of the space is reminiscent of the Beverly Hills hotel but it's not all about appearances; the specialist nail technicians are experts in BIAB, a technique used to build strength under the nails for long-lasting healthy nails.
Paint Nails offers an unprecedented service which means you have a seven-day guarantee, and if anything goes wrong, they will fix the issue at no extra cost.
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Pedi:Mani:Cure Studio, By Bastien Gonzalez, Hyde Park
Located in one of London’s most beautiful buildings, the five-star Mandarin Oriental Hotel, it is evident before you have even crossed the threshold of Cure Studio, that you are going to have an incredible experience. Bastien Gonzalez is a pedicurist favoured by A-Listers, and the Royal family, internationally renowned for his incredible skills and techniques, which has resulted in him being invited to set up a salon in one of London’s best hotels.
Known for putting the ‘cure’ in manicure and pedicure, your hands and feet will experience an incredibly thorough treatment that removes dead skin, and preens imperfections and is the ultimate pampering experience. You will also have a restorative calf and foot massage which leaves you feeling utterly relaxed.
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Iris Avenue, Fitzrovia
Iris Avenue is renowned for its adventurous artisans who can expertly create intricate designs including underwater scenes and 3D art. You will leave with your nails reminiscent of a piece of art should you choose to book in with one of their specialists. However, if you are after something more traditional, they offer that too. From elegant French tips to the London classic pillar-box red, Iris Avenue will successfully execute whatever it is your heart desires.
Iris Avenue also offers other treatments including lash extensions, hair removal, facials, and massages meaning you can spend a whole day in their sumptuous salon to get you relaxed and summer-ready. There is an extensive bar menu whether you’re seeking a smoothie, latte, or perhaps a cocktail ensuring a fully indulgent, rewarding experience.
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Drybar, Soho
With its vast windows overlooking the upmarket Mortimer Street, minimalist furniture, and whitewashed walls, the classic and classy design of the space lets you know upon arrival your nails are in good hands. They specialise in minimalistic, clean nails, think Hailey Bieber, the quiet luxury, milky, chic hues increasingly favoured by the It Girls of today. Care and consideration go into the treatments with an in-house approach built to protect and encourage strong healthy nails. Upstairs is the world-famous Drybar which offers excellent blow drys; treat yourself to a combination of treatments and you’ll leave feeling like a Hollywood star.
If relaxation or enviable artistry is what you are seeking in a nail salon, these spaces deliver. With an abundance of choices, it can be hard to make a decision but our comprehensive guide can assist you in finding the nail salon that is best suited to you. London’s nail salons offer so much more than just a polish change, increasingly they offer a whole experience, so whether you’re getting ready on a Friday night to have a weekend of fun with friends, or winding down for an evening of relaxation, getting a manicure and pedicure is an essential step. The abundance of nail salons and what they offer is as varied and eclectic as the great city itself, so find one that is right for you and book yourself in today. Satisfaction is guaranteed.
