As every mother will tell you, it is vital to make the most of baby-free minutes before welcoming your little one into the world. A babymoon is an essential right of passage for new mums-to-be, and there are many ways to do it just right. From throwing the perfect last hurrah party, lolling around at a pampering spa, or taking advantage of eating for two, we have got the answers for you.
Corinthia Hotel London – for wellness
It is often said that Corinthia London has the ‘best spa in London’, a phrase i can fully endorse.
Spread across four floors, ESPA Life at Corinthia features an exquisite Thermal Floor featuring a swimming pool, amphitheatre sauna, ice fountain, vitality pool, steam rooms and many gorgeous spaces to chill out.
Mums-to-be can enjoy a full day of relaxing on heated marble loungers, taking leisurely dips and feeling the benefits of a range of pregnancy-focussed massages and therapies. The ‘Eat Well’ menu in the Spa Lounge caters for all appetites, but make sure you save room if you have a reservation at one of The Corinthia’s renowned bars and restaurants.
Kerridge’s Bar & Grill serves the very best of British classics from Michelin starred chef Tom Kerridge in a jaw dropping setting. The Garden is perfect for alfresco dining if you fancy some fresh air, and this season is offering a delicious Italian menu. The Crystal Moon Lounge in the heart of the hotel is ideal for savouring afternoon tea underneath a 1,001 crystal chandelier – what could be better?
For those wishing to stay in their spa robes, there is always room service. The stunning rooms can come with marble underfloor heated bathrooms, walk-in wardrobes and hypnos mattresses, for a sumptuous sleep. Suites and penthouses come with a range of wine cellars, giant chess boards, terraces, pianos and complimentary butler service.
The Langham – for afternoon tea
Did you know that The Langham, London was the first Grand Hotel ever to serve afternoon tea? Since Palm Court’s opening in 1865 The Langham has continued to celebrate this British tradition in style. As the ultimate destination for afternoon tea, The Langham is a popular choice for upmarket baby showers, and can comfortably accommodate large groups in Palm Court or a private space.
Overseen by Michel Roux Jr and created by Executive Pastry Chef Andrew Gravett, the afternoon tea menu is inspired by Britain’s most beloved sandwiches, cakes, biscuits and sweets such as custard creams and walnut whips, all with a modern twist. The pastries pair perfectly with a wide selection of JING teas and Taittinger Champagne and the team are ever on hand to offer pairing suggestions.
If you are making a stay of it, a trip to the underground is a must, with a range of chinese-inspired treatments and a customised full body massage using safe pre-natal techniques designed to relax, reduce fatigue, release tension, aches, pains, swelling and other discomforts associated with pregnancy.
The Other House, South Kensington – for the spirit
For an achingly cool, home-from-home vibe, The Other House is the place to be. It’s designed for people to stay for a day, week, month, year or more, so has ample facilities and spaces to lounge and have unbroken conversations with friends while you still can.
Spiritual mamas will love the wellness concierge service. Mama wellbeing will swoop in to The Other House whenever suits you and provide healing, holistic pregnancy treatments, reiki, yoga, hypnotherapy, tarot reading and more. There is also the option of a OM Sound Bath by Leo Cosendai. A perfect way to calm the racing mind.
Mums-to-be can round off the day with delicious light bites and mocktails at the Owl & Monkey bar before heading up to one of the Club Flats for a comfortable stay with everything you need at hand.
The NoMad – for culture
Before your world turns into Paw Patrol and plastic toys, enjoy a weekend of pure sophistication at NoMad London. Situated in Covent Garden it is perfectly located for culture, next door to the Royal Opera House and in the heart of the West End’s theatre scene.
After taking in a matinee and enjoying the street theatre, it is just a short stroll back to the hotel. The Restaurant is set inside a soaring, glass conservatory, which serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. After dinner you can escape to The Library, an intimate space reserved only for hotel guests. Enjoy a virgin nightcap and browse the collection of NoMad’s favourite works of literature. Shhhhh.
For a real treat, book into the two floor Royal Opera Suite where you can loll in the clawfoot bathtub overlooking the Opera House, and then sleep soundly the sumptious super-king sized bed.
The Ned – for the last hurrah
Six years have gone by since The Ned opened when every VIP of the land flocked to the launch of the year, and it is still the hottest place to party. This Ned is best for when you still have a bit of energy, so aim to book in during the second trimester.
The Ned hotel and members’ club is nestled in the City of London. The vast ground floor was the former bank hall of the 1920s former Midland Bank, and now houses numerous bars and restaurants, filled with beautiful people from all over the world. This is a place for babymooners to have a final fun-filled weekend and show off the bump while sipping finely crafted mocktails in The Nickel Bar and listening to live music from the central band stand.
While eating for two, make the most of the gorgeous selection of seven restaurants and three bars at The Ned, serving the very best of international cuisine. We recommend heading down to the lower ground floor to dine at The Parlour, an intimate jazz and cabaret restaurant. Every Wednesday and Thursday, The Jazz It Up set menu includes a glass of Champagne with a three course dinner accompanied by live music and entry to The Vault bar, which is usually reserved for The Ned’s members only.
After partying the night away for as long as you can manage, head upstairs to make the most of a fabulous night’s sleep. The 250 art-deco rooms at The Ned range from cosy crash pads to sumptuous suites, and all include access to the spa, where you can treat yourself to a range of pregnancy treatments.
Four Seasons Hampshire – the family babymoon
If this baby isn’t the first, the Four Seasons Hampshire is perfect for pleasing the whole family. The one hour drive from London won’t be too taxing on your nerves, and the sight of the rolling fields of the estate will instantly relax you.
This hotel is set up for families, with complimentary amenities such as sterilisers, cribs, baby baths, microwaves, swim nappies and even mini bathrobes, so you don’t need to pack the kitchen sink. There’s a free kids’ club for ages four and over (younger ones need a parent or babysitter with them) during weekends and school holidays, so you can relax, knowing that they are safe and happy, enjoying a range of arts, crafts and games. Older children can make the most of the games room.
On site there is a highwire adventure experience, tennis courts and an equestrian centre where riders of all ages and abilities can go for a hack, a walk out, or simply enjoy grooming the ponies. The biggest crowd pleaser is Sharkie’s Reef, a family adventure pool with a slide, rotating fountain, bubble jets and resident friendly shark, Sharkie.
The best part is that Mum-to-be can softly creep away for some quiet time in the spa. Follow up a peaceful swim in the generous pool with a pregnancy-friendly massage or facial and then read a book or magazine on a comfy lounger for as long as you can.
Kids under five can enjoy complimentary meals at Wild Carrot restaurant every evening, where Executive Chef Talha Barkin crafts a seasonal menu with local, sustainable produce. There is also nutrition focused and Southeast Asia inspired Cafe Sante, where you can pick up a deliciously fresh Bento Box.
At bedtime, kiddies can enjoy a family movie and then curl up with cookies, milk and a bedtime story. Rooms and suites can be adjusted with sofa beds and cribs and interconnected to accommodate families of all sizes. Perfection.
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