Synonymous with central London, and especially famous for its nightlife and LGBT+ community, Soho is much more than its lively streets and vibrant bars. In fact, you won’t need to venture far during your time in London to have a good time.
Check out our guide of how to best spend your time here . . .
Just a hop, skip and a jump from Carnaby (or a stumble depending on what time it is) you’ll find Karma Sanctum Soho – London’s original rock n’ roll hotel. In 2009, music insiders joined forces to create a sophisticated boutique hotel for music industry friends and guests. 30 guest rooms and suites range from compact bedrooms to roof terrace suites all of which sit across two converted Georgian townhouses in the heart of Soho.
If you’re looking for a playful and energetic place to stay to inject even more fun into your London getaway, then this is the place for you. There’s surprising sculptures, eclectic artwork and rock n’ roll details around every corner. Live like a true rockstar and make the most of the 24-hour rooftop bar and alfresco Hydro Spa hot tub, screen a film in the subterranean cocktail bar or tuck into something tasty in the hotel’s Japanese restaurant and bar – Wild Heart Bar & Shokudo.
What surprised us most about the hotel is just how quiet the place is – being only two floors above street level we thought we’d be disturbed by the weekend nightlife below, but we didn’t hear a peep and had one of the best night’s sleep in a long time!
It’s the stay in the city that’s just a bit different.
Spread across several streets in Soho including Berwick St, Broadwick St, Denman Street and Brewer Street, Shaftesbury’s Soho portfolio showcases 39 shops with plenty of independent boutiques, here are our top picks –
Sister Ray started as a humble record stall on Camden Market in the mid 80s and has steadily grown into one of London’s most iconic suppliers of quality, alternative vinyl and CDs. Set over two floors, you can expect the likes of the finest new releases alongside a huge range of classic albums and a superb selection of rare and second-hand vinyl.
A Day’s March is a Swedish clothing label with a three-story townhouse in the heart of Soho. The brand reflects their ambition to make clothes that get you through the triumphs and troubles of everyday life. Explore their classic menswear and womenswear collections of high-quality garments, featuring timeless designs for every occasion. You can also relax in their chill-out area post-shop. It’s just as cool as it sounds.
Aēsop specialise in fine quality products for skin, hair and body. Featuring both plant-based and laboratory-made ingredients, Aēsop’s products only use those with a proven record of safety and efficacy. The Soho store combines a vast range of products with a modern and minimal design. Head in-store for a personal assessment from on-hand trained consultants, who can provide you with all your skincare answers whilst trying one of their season-appropriate samples.
Where to eat . . .
Discover 31 restaurants, bars and cafes across several Soho streets including Berwick St, Broadwick St, Denman Street and Brewer Street. Here’s our favourite spots in Soho for some stylish sustenance . . .
Ember Yard
Specialising in dishes inspired by the amazing wood-fired grills of Spain and Italy, Head Chef Adam Kulikowski creates exceptional small and large sharing plates. No fuss. No fanfare. Just flavour. The restaurant is located in the heart of Soho over two floors, including an exciting downstairs space known as The Ember Bar, a slick area in which to indulge on small plates over their impressive cocktail list. Find yourself amongst an electric and buzzy atmosphere making it a perfect space to relax with a drink pre or post dinner.
The aim of the game here is to order a selection of small plates to share which will arrive as and when they’re ready. Their signature dish is the courgette flower which is just as delightful as it sounds, but other notable dishes include their soft shell crab burger, charcoal roasted scallops and prawn croquetas. Definitely try out a few different options from their cocktail menu if you can – they’re not only fun and inventive, but delicious, too.
emberyard.co.uk
Temper
One for meat lovers, this city spot near the shops of Carnaby Street is well worth a visit for those who appreciate great dining experiences. Temper is an ultra-modern and hip hangout that serves some satisfying and social dishes. Begin with creative snacks like the Caramelised Spicy Corn or starters like the Aged Beef Nachos or Beef Fat Cornbread with Gochujang Butter. The main event here is the selection of Barbecued smoked meats and seafood. Beef Brisket with Tajin in Paratha, Sweet & Sour Pork Rib and Chilli & Garlic Prawns all for your order.
Dine on a Sunday and indulge in their famous Sunday roast with a range of meats on offer. Expect enlarged Yorkshire puddings and comforting cauliflower cheese. The open kitchen makes for a theatrical dining experience while the space still feels intimate and cosy.
Planning a trip to London and feel like you need to cram in as much as possible? There’s no need to exhaust yourself running around getting sweaty on the tube in the summer months when there’s everything you need and more in Carnaby Street London . . .
With a compelling heritage that boasts the birthplace of Swinging London in the ‘60s, Carnaby is, today, the go-to destination for global fashion brands, unique independent stores, and world-first concepts. Located in London’s vibrant West End, just a short walk from Oxford Circus and Piccadilly Circus tube stations, the area invites you to discover over 160 brands spanning fashion, lifestyle, beauty, food, and drink across 14 streets, including the world-famous Carnaby Street.
Check out our guide on how to best utilise your time here . . .
Just a hop, skip and a jump from Carnaby (or a stumble depending on what time it is) you’ll find Karma Sanctum Soho – London’s original rock n’ roll hotel. In 2009, music insiders joined forces to create a sophisticated boutique hotel for music industry friends and guests. 30 guest rooms and suites range from compact bedrooms to roof terrace suites all of which sit across two converted Georgian townhouses in the heart of Soho.
If you’re looking for a playful and energetic place to stay to inject even more fun into your London getaway, then this is the place for you. There are surprising sculptures, eclectic artwork and rock n’ roll details around every corner. Live like a true rockstar and make the most of the 24-hour rooftop bar and alfresco Hydro Spa hot tub, screen a film in the subterranean cocktail bar or tuck into something tasty in the hotel’s Japanese restaurant and bar – Wild Heart Bar & Shokudo.
What surprised us most about the hotel is just how quiet the place is – being only two floors above street level we thought we’d be disturbed by the weekend nightlife below, but we didn’t hear a peep and had one of the best night’s sleep in a long time!
It’s the stay in the city that’s just a bit different.
Carnaby is known for its world-famous art installations, especially at Christmas, but this summer there are some exciting things to feast your eyes on.
Carnaby in Colour summer installation
Spanning across Carnaby Street and Newburgh Street is a brand-new, vibrant feature made exclusively from recycled plastic. Brought to you by the recycling brand ‘Are You Mad’ these three hand/heart-shaped arches will be suspended above the streets until mid-September. Sitting alongside the existing Welcome To Carnaby Street arches that have also been upcycled with colourful recycled hand embellishments, these installations form part of the wider Carnaby in Colour campaign. Crafted using 684kg of recycled plastic waste from local shops and restaurants the installation took four weeks of collecting waste plastic, 16 daysof sheet pressing and a team of 13 people to create the finished materials. We think the installation showcases the community, colour and care that Carnaby is all about.
Festoon lights, Kingly Street
Kingly Street is home to some of the best restaurants in Carnaby from Dishoom, Pizza Pilgrims, Kolamba and Dehes. This back street is the perfect place to dine al fresco and enjoy a photo on the outdoor seating under the pink festoon lights.
Ganton Street giant light bulb installation, Ganton Street
The West side of Ganton Street has been taken over by 51 ginormous light bulbs suspended from the sky. Impressive at any time of day, the installation is best viewed at night when the LED bulbs light up in a rainbow of colours creating the most spectacular light show.
Where to shop . . .
Forget trying to dodge all the people on busy Oxford Street and enjoy a calmer and more authentic shopping experience in Carnaby with over 100 stores to satisfy all your shopping needs. There’s everything from international and British heritage labels to independent boutiques, one-off concepts, and bespoke jewellery specialists to name but a few. Here are our standouts –
Mind is Carnaby’s first permanent charity shop and houses a carefully curated collection of preloved vintage and designer stock for the stylish West London shopper. Items in store include the likes of luxury designers Givenchy, Vivienne Westwood, Burberry, Coach and Louis Vuitton, plus new stock will be added to the shelves each day meaning no two shopping experiences will be the same. It’s worth noting that Kate Spade and Lulu Guiness donate unsold stock to them regularly, meaning you can pick up some real bargains, all for a good cause!
Annie’s Ibiza sells a mix of eclectic and rare, one-of-a-kind pieces. Every piece is handpicked by Annie herself and is a reflection of her wardrobe, with a majority of the pieces being exclusively available to Annie’s Ibiza. Even if you don’t buy anything, this store is an experience in itself and an Aladdin’s Cave of gorgeous garments. While there, we found a stunning dress made by Annie that was inspired by designs from the Ottoman Empire, as well as a dress made exclusively from recycled pieces collected from the shop over a year.
Ffern is a natural fragrance maker based in Somerset. It was born out of a simple vision: to restore perfumery to its artisan roots. With this in mind, Ffern creates fragrances that are organic, vegan and made from the highest quality, sustainably sourced, natural ingredients. Working with the rhythms of the seasons, they blend, barrel-age and bottle four unique fragrances a year, released at the equinox and solstice. It’s a beautiful store that makes you feel calm and grounded as soon as you walk through the door.
Kat Maconie shoes are instantly recognisable by their dazzling colour palette, statement hardware frames on architectural heels, and maximalist details. From beaded and bedazzled, to embroidered and appliqued; more is more. Uniquely comfortable and easy to wear, Kat Maconie shoes are designed with comfort and fit at the forefront. It’s a fun fashion for your feet and is bound to add a little spring to your step.
Hayley Menzies has opened the doors to a beautiful new boutique in the heart of Carnaby. The store hosts a highly curated edit of Hayley Menzies essentials for those embarking on a day out in the city’s revered shopping district. Pop downstairs to see what deals she has on and chat with the fab assistants to see what styles they recommend.
Where to eat . . .
With 60 restaurants, bars, and cafes to choose from you sure won’t go hungry in Carnaby. We’ve done the hard work and compiled some of the places that are a MUST VISIT, trust us, you wont regret it . . .
Darjeeling Express
This is Indian food cooked from the heart with the all-female kitchen, most of whom began as part-time assistants when Asma started her business years ago, have all been taught to cook by their mothers and grandmothers. Darjeeling Express started as a dinner for 12 guests at home, serving Indian food lovingly cooked from family recipes that go back to generations by founder Asma Khan. Based on the top floor of Kingly Court, her London restaurant is inspired by the interiors of Indian train station waiting rooms filled with terracotta pots and wooden ceiling fans. Discover mouth-watering textures and flavours in her compelling dishes including nourishing Dhall, tender Methi Chicken, and Prawn Malaikari paired with tantalising sides such as Beetroot Chop, Bulandshahr Rogni Roti and Spinach Pakora. The biriyani will have you coming back for more, which probably explains the regular queue outside the door. However, we recommend the set menu dinner served on a large silver tray filled with delectable dishes allowing you to have a taste of everything. And the cocktails are just as good as the food!
darjeeling-express.com
Dishoom
This famous Bombay-inspired eatery can be found throughout the UK, but the Carnaby site is the fourth in the London collection. Inspired by the old Irani cafes that were all the rage in Bombay in the ‘60s, Dishoom pays homage to these now rare places. Rich businessmen, courting couples and sweaty taxi-wallas all frequented the cafés. They were the first places in the city where people from any caste or class could have an inexpensive snack or a hearty meal, or just seek cool refuge from the street with a glass of chai. But now as the city rushes towards modernity, these beautiful old cafés are disappearing, mourned by Bombayites, and fading into memory.
Open all day, pop along for breakfast, lunch or dinner, but be prepared to queue unless you’ve managed to get a booking. Breakfast is our favourite, not only can you usually get a table, it will be a breakfast unlike any you’ve had before. Tuck into their famed bacon naan, try chilli cheese on toast or opt for the never-ending refillable date porridge. What we love the most, however, is that for every breakfast you eat at Dishoom, the restaurant will donate a ‘magic’ breakfast to a school in London. Magic Breakfast charity aims to end hunger as a barrier to education by providing nutritious breakfasts to its partner schools. Now, how lovely is that?
dishoom.com
Zahter
Located on the corner of Foubert’s Place, Zahter showcases true Istabanbulite cuisine with its vibrant places. The interiors comprise a pleasant blue and white palette with the wood and charcoal oven at the centre of it all. Long countertop tables are perfect to perch at and people-watch on a busy afternoon. The menu encompasses finely crafted dishes and exotic tastes all of which are cooked in the open wood-fired oven and are continually changed to showcase what’s in season.
All the dishes were small and designed to be shared, but the menu felt a little overwhelming having little knowledge of Istanbul cuisine, so we asked our delightful waiter to choose for us and boy did he do good! A watermelon salad paired with goat’s cheese, chilli and honey was not something we would have usually opted for, but it was heavenly and the baked aubergine is something like we’ve never had before. Using fresh ingredients is vital for the taste, hence sourcing ingredients from sources and small artisanal producers.
zahter.co.uk
What to do . . .
Pamper at So.Shell
Pop by Ukrainian nail bar, So.Shell, a place where customers don’t have to compromise between time and quality. Here you can get a manicure, pedicure and eyebrow treatment all done in just 90 minutes! However, their large treatment menu extends beyond this with nail extensions, nail art, lash treatments and brow lamination all available and performed by highly qualified professionals. So. Shell interior resembles a holiday destination, helping you to relax and recharge. Dip your feet into a relaxing bath followed by a massage, order a refreshing drink and escape from your daily routine.
I opted for a heavenly pedicure! My technician Irene gave my poor feet some much-needed love and attention, and I left with not only a beautiful bright red pedicure but also a spring in my step.
soshell.uk
Cocktails at Cahoots
Descend into Cahoots for an immersive 1940s experience where you’ll find yourself sipping on themed cocktails from a Toby Jug, jiving away to jazz and swinging the night away in a reworked 1940s tube carriage.
Inspired by the era that saw Londoners take refuge in the underground, as stations were commonly used as air raid shelters during the war, Cahoots replicates the wartime British spirit with drinks and sing-alongs around the piano to boost morale. With an extensive cocktail menu printed on an old newspaper, all drinks are themed and regularly change, making it all too easy to spend most of the evening down here. Be adventurous and ask your waitress (who’ll likely be in character) what they recommend. Wartime rations are served in the form of small plates to share with friends.
cahoots-london.com
Read more about colourful Carnaby over at carnaby.co.uk
Come with us to one of London’s most exclusive boroughs for an elegant evening in charming Chelsea.
As much as I adore the King’s Road in Chelsea, it can get a little bit chaotic, especially in the summer holidays or on a weekend. But if you’re in the know, there’s a hidden gem just off the bustling high street where you can retreat to rest and recharge ready for another round of shopping.
And at House of Coco, we know ALL the best places. This one in particular is located at The Sloane Club – an elegant private members club located just a short stroll away from the hustle and bustle of Chelsea’s Sloane Square.
When the sun is out in London, there is no greater occasion for drinking rosé on a buzzing terrace with friends, which is why The Roof Terrace at The Sloane Club has partnered with the iconic rosé brand, Whispering Angel, throughout July and August for a pop up of summer soirées and al fresco dining.
Whispering Angel have taken over The Roof Terrace at The Sloane Club to delight guests with crisp rosés accompanied by a mouth-watering menu by The Club’s Chefs. Diners can indulge in the menu that has a variety of light and fresh dishes celebrating British summer flavours with a delicious exotic twist from Messy aromatic lemongrass chicken burger with garlic aioli, pineapple salsa, spicy Asian slaw to Seafood and basil risotto with native lobster, Devon crab, tiger prawns & squid. Be sure to end your evening with the chocolate bombe – it’ll delight everyone at the table.
Enjoy The Pale Rosé, a juicy and elegant blend from the wider Provençal region in France; Whispering Angel Rosé made from Grenache, Cinsault and Vermentino – a dry wine with a smooth finish; and Rock Angel Rosé bearing a complex and structured taste profile, making it perfect as an aperitif.
The pop up is also the perfect place to inject a bit more sunshine into your summer, as let’s face it, this one has been a little bit drab! A flower arch and floral installation of beautiful pinks, greens, and whites set amongst the elegant surroundings of the roof terrace gives you that bright, sunshiny feeling. And if the British weather does what it does best and rain, they have a retractable roof that will roll on out to keep you nice and dry.
Open seven days a week from 12pm through to 11pm it’s ideal for ladies who lunch, a stylish business meeting, that all important first date, special celebration or even just a fun get-together with friends. And what’s even better is that the club’s sister property, Sloane Place, is located next door, giving you the perfect excuse to stay in stylish South West London.
Located in an iconic red brick building on Lower Sloane Street, the hotel is the younger sister of the 101-year-old Sloane Club next door. With a welcoming reception area, Sloane Place instantly gives the impression of being elegant, stylish, and refined – exactly what we’d expect of a hotel in the heart of Chelsea – yet retains that feel of exclusivity.
Making our way to the room, this feeling carried on throughout the hotel with a warming colour palette of creams, blues and deep golds. The bedrooms are surprisingly spacious for a London hotel with lots of natural lights thanks to the long sash windows. Molton Brown toiletries can be found within your bathroom, along with a deep bath and rainfall shower.
There’s another fabulous restaurant on the ground floor serving up as an alternative option to the roof terrace. We had breakfast here which was fantastic – think matcha lattes (make it dirty by adding a shot), American pancakes and avocado on sourdough toast. If you can bag a table by the window, do, as it makes for the perfect people watching spot.
We’d recommend Sloane Place for a London getaway, and will no doubt book the roof terrace when were in town – come rain or shine!
Following a phenomenally successful, record-breaking run in London’s West End and subsequent sell-out tour, The Commitments comes to Leeds Grand Theatre from Mon 19 – Sat 24 June 2023.
The world’s hardest working and most explosive soul band is set to return in this all-new stage production based on the BAFTA award-winning film classic adapted from the novel by Booker prize-winning author Roddy Doyle.
This fantastically feel-good celebration of soul features an electric playlist, showcasing more than 20 soul classics performed live on stage, including Night Train, Try A Little Tenderness, River Deep, Mountain High, In The Midnight Hour, Papa Was A Rolling Stone, Save Me, Mustang Sally, I Heard It Through The Grapevine, Thin Line Between Love and Hate, Reach Out, Uptight, Knock On Wood, I Can’t Turn You Loose and many more!
The smash-hit musical will star Coronation Street legend Nigel Pivaro, who appeared in the hugely popular ITV soap between 1983 – 2012 as the lovable rogue Terry Duckworth.He will be swapping the cobbles for the stage and performing the role of ‘Da’ in this all-new production.
Nigel Pivaro says: “I am thrilled to be marking my return to the stage in this production of The Commitments. It’s an iconic story that resonates across the years, about people who though distant from the music’s origins find communion and expression in the Motown style, a musical genre that was borne out of oppression and which the characters embrace as their own. The Motown Sound is as vibrant today as it was when it first burst through in the Sixties.”
Roddy Doyle added: “I’m delighted that The Commitments is coming back in 2022 & 2023 and I’m particularly looking forward to seeing how Nigel Pivaro tackles the part of Jimmy Rabbitte’s Da.”
The Commitments tour is directed by Andrew Linnie. Andrew made his West End debut in the original production in 2013, playing the role of Dean, the band’s sax player. He then went on to star in the lead role of Jimmy Rabitte in the 2016/2017 UK tour.
Joining the cast as Deco is Olivier Award nominee Ian McIntosh. Ian is no stranger to this role, having previously played Alternate Deco during the original West End run. Previous credits include Galileo in the UK tour of We Will Rock You, Sid Worley in An Officer and a Gentleman and he was Olivier-nominated for ‘Best Supporting Actor in a Musical’ for his role as Barry in Beautiful – The Carole King Musical. His extensive musical career has also seen him perform in Hair and Can’t Buy Me Love.
The Commitments tells the story of Jimmy Rabbitte, a young working-class music fan, who transforms an unlikely bunch of amateur musicians into an amazing live act, which becomes the finest soul band Dublin has ever produced. Placing a classified advert in a music paper, Jimmy auditions several wannabes before finalising the members of his new band, which he names ‘The Commitments’.
Humour kicks in as the band get to know each other and their instruments, grappling with inter-group differences as they muddle their way through early rehearsals for the band’s first gig. Just as they improve and begin to get a name for themselves, they combust. The backing singers are more interested in the middle-aged horn-playing legend, the singer has entered Eurovision, the drummer has walked out mid-gig and the saxophone player has dangerous leanings towards a jazz career.
The Commitments is a guaranteed ‘fabulously-fun night’ (Daily Mail) that you will simply never forget.
The Commitments is at Leeds Grand Theatre from Monday 19 to Saturday 24 June 2023. Book online at leedsheritagetheatres.com or call the Box Office on 0113 243 0808.
Ready to get fit, transform your diet and discover a fresh sense of wellness and healthy way of living? Then look no further than the Glass House Retreat.
Founded by Joy Jarvis, who’s dedication to health and wellbeing led her to create the very best in spa, wellness and relaxation, with the aim to help those looking to renew and rebuild the mind, body and soul.
The UK’s first purpose-built detox and wellness retreat, the Glass House is a tailor-made oasis of calm, and exists to help its guests make changes and live a healthier, fitter, and more relaxed life. From the most exquisite plant based food menus, curated by head chef Miguel Gouveia, to allow for the ultimate in nutrition, combined with an extensive programme of fitness classes to suit all levels from weights and body conditioning to yoga and meditation, the retreat also offers a wide range of innovative and one of a kind indulgent Germaine De Capuccini spa treatments, including facials, body treatments as well as Cryo Chamber sessions and many more.
The Glass House Retreat, which is located in a beautiful expanse of countryside in Essex, less than an hour from central London, has been designed from scratch and built by industry experts from the ground up. It’s a visionary retreat, with an all-inclusive approach to wellness whether you’re there for just a spa day or a full detox break. The aim of Glass House Retreat is not to preach or bark orders at you; it is what you make it. If you feel like a personal training session rather than a group class, that’s fine. If you feel like staying in the heated leisure pool, no problem, a lie in, or spa treatment instead, that’s your choice! The highly experienced on-site team does recommend a programme bespoke to you, so you can really achieve the best results for yourself.
Accommodation
Glass House Retreat boasts comfy and spacious modern rooms where guests can contemplate, relax and sleep deeply – ensuring you are fully recharged and ready to take on the day’s activities. Need a break from the never-ending smartphone ping? The retreat also offers digital detox safes in which to store your phone, and if not then there’s free high-speed WiFi available to all guests. Better still, en-suites are stocked with vegan and eco-friendly Anyah Eco Spa products, providing deep cleansing, and moisturising skin protection.
Food
The Glass House retreat’s low-cholesterol plant-based diets and juices help balance nutrition, aid digestion and are great for your heart. They offer a pure detox and well-being experience. No junk food, just delicious organic fruits, vegetables, nuts and grains – local, fresh and delivered daily. Everything on the menu is also rich in vitamins and minerals, high in fibre, healthy, and largely unprocessed. Everything is natural and clean and just what your body craves.
Head chef, Miguel Gouveia, has been passionate about food since his childhood on the Atlantic island of Madeira. Most chefs end up on a path of indulgence, a world away from nutrition and wellbeing, however, Miguel is different. He’s at the forefront of a healthy living revolution and an expert in plant-based diets. For generations, society has been eating processed foods, full of salt, sugar, and fat. But people are waking up. The health fallout of poor diets cannot be denied. Miguel has been on a mission to help people lead healthier lives, after graduating from a top cuisine school in California. Now, at the Glass House, you can learn from him.
The Glass House really is more than a retreat, it’s a concept. It’s the sharing of a healthier, fitter, and more in-tune way of being. Here you’ll find all the facilities you need to get fit, detox, and chill out.
The schedule differs daily and there is plenty of free time for your pre-booked spa treatments.
Sample Day One:
7:00 am Rise and shine
7:30 am Hot water and fresh lemon
7:45 am Hour-long countryside walk
9:00 am Breakfast
10:00 am – 1:00 pm Exercise classes, free time, spa treatments
Traveling the world doesn’t have to get in the way of your fitness routine, and thanks to the worldwide locations of these studios you can even access your favourite classes around the globe.
F45 Training
Hailing from down under, F45 Training is an Australian concept that centres around a functional full-body workout that lasts for 45 minutes and is never the same – it’s varied, fun and fast! One of the most well-known global fitness communities out there, they specialise in high-intensity group workouts that are fun and guaranteed to give you results. With 1,800 studios across 45 countries, you’re bound to get in at least one F45 workout during your travels.
Step into the infamous Red Room for the workout of your life! Hailing from the big apple, this studio packs a punch, but we can guarantee you’ll want to keep going back for more. Known as the original HIIT workout, you’ll spend half your time on the treadmill and the other half on the floor with the weights doing strength training. Drop into one of the many studios located in 15 countries worldwide.
With over 14,000 locations across the globe, you’ll be hard done to not find yourself a CrossFit gym! Mixing weightlifting with cardio and gymnastics, expect a challenging workout that’s designed to get you in the fittest shape of your life. But don’t be nervous about dropping in somewhere new, the beauty of CrossFit is that it’s a true community, a place where you’re welcomed in with open arms, and each workout is scaleable meaning you can approach it on your terms.
Born in Sheffield, Trib3 has applied their Yorkshire roots into their ethos and put the community at the heart of everything they do. Take your pick from their signature Total Body workout where no muscle is left untouched, Upper Body + Core, or work your largest muscle group in Lower Body. With over 22 studios across 10 countries including Finland, Spain and the Netherlands, you can touch base with home wherever in the world you are.
Whether you’re all about the hotel gym life, love seeking out a local studio or prefer to combine your workout and sightseeing with a run around town, we’ve got you covered with #TeamCoco’s top activewear picks this month.
Leggings and a sports bra are our go-to gym gear when working out in the heat. Make things even hotter with this sexy, strappy sports bra designed to make you look, and feel, great.
We can’t get enough of Lorna Jane’s new Psychedelic 70s collection – from the Retro Check Ribbed Sports Bra (£47) in the main image to these cute 16cm bike shorts perfect for exploring the sights.
Exploring a new destination on foot is one of our favourite things to do and you can’t go far wrong with a pair of FitFlops on your feet. Ergonomically designed to support your speed-walking, casual running, gym workout or even just your sightseeing.
Offering great support while looking stylish is what every girl needs in a sports bra. We can’t get enough of the colours in this one by The Upside – perfect for pairing with any outfit.
Nothing screams holiday quite like a pair of flowery shorts and we can’t get enough of the dreamy Hawaiian vives these ones are giving us from Lorna Jane. Plus, they’re in the sale, so it would be rude not to really!
Situated in the heart of Chelsea, 11 Cadogan Gardens is a hedonist’s dream. House of Coco writer, Beth Windsor checked in for a night of art, elegance and entertainment.
Fancy having a sleepover just a stone’s throw away from Sloane Square? Then 11 Cadogan is for you. Welcoming the great and the good for over a century, this is the place to enjoy all things Chelsea while feeling as though you’ve stepped into another world. Full of quirky touches and playful surprises, there’s delight around every corner in this 5* luxury hotel that just so happens to be the only Relais & Châteaux member in London.
Decadence and glamour are just some of the words that spring to mind when you enter the surroundings of this impressive hotel. Although, we say hotel, it feels more like a sophisticated, yet homely, private members club and as we take a seat in the plump velvet armchair in reception, we wouldn’t be surprised if someone served us an Old Fashioned while we wait.
Composed of four former redbrick townhouses knocked through to create one giant property, it’s slightly topsy turvy, but that’s just what adds to the appeal. Take some time to explore the rooms downstairs, the library is a book lovers dream filled with a wonderful collection as old as the hotel itself. It’s also the perfect place to cosy up with a copy of the latest issue of House of Coco may we add.
As you wander the decadent corridors, you’ll no doubt notice the collection of art that spans the walls. This has been made up over time, with some of the pieces being inherited from the former townhouses – we’ll let you decipher the originals for yourself. There’s a room dedicated to afternoon tea that doubles up as a relaxing workspace outside of these hours. However, our favourite part of the hotel has to be the gilded room where the mirrored walls are accented in gold – it’s like taking a tumble down the rabbit hole and ending up in Wonderland. This is the perfect place for an intimate dinner or sexy soirée, but the fact it has access to its own private apartment makes it ideal for a girls’ getaway.
Now for the main event – the bedrooms! With 34 rooms, 22 suites, and even 6 apartments, there’s something for everyone at 11 Cadogan Gardens. What we love most is that no two rooms are the same – meaning you can pick a room based on your personality – how fabulous! Whether you’re after something modern and understated, a suite with a sexy side or a room where you feel as though you’ve stepped into the renaissance, they have it here. The Victorian architecture provides each room with a beautiful backdrop thanks to the high ceilings and large, bay windows.
Our suite had the perfect balance of style and decadence with a stunning original stone fireplace in the living room over which hung a haunting black chandelier. The bedroom was hidden behind gilded mirrored doors (they must have known) which opened up to the sight of huge carved bed, fit for a princess. Of course, the first thing we did was have a bubble bath using the delicious Noble Isle products before snuggling up in our fluffy white robe.
We would have stayed there all evening if we could, but dinner called. Of course, a stop by the alluring Chelsea Bar for an aperitif first was essential, a bar we can only describe as having delicious decadence in every ounce. We suggest making your way through the cocktail list – you won’t be disappointed.
The hotel’s restaurant – Hans’ Bar & Grill – is located within the hotel, but also boasts a privileged position nestled amongst the delis and cafes of Pavilion Road. Modern, British design is the name of the game here which is also emulated in the British produce that can be seen on the menu. The food is as every bit delicious as one would expect in such a prime location.
We chose to have a lazy morning, opting to enjoy breakfast in our suite while watching the hustle and bustle of the mews street below before gearing up for a day exploring Chelsea, for there is much to discover in this area. Its location gives it a unique village feel, while you’re just a hop, skip and a jump (or a stumble depending on how many you’ve had in the hotel’s bar) to a fabulous offering of high-end restaurants, quaint coffee shops, designer stores and world-class art galleries along the Kings Road.
While here, you’d be foolish not to take advantage of the hotel’s partnership with the Saatchi Gallery which gets you access to the world-class gallery, as well as preview tickets to some of the most talked about exhibitions in town.
All-in-all 11 Cadogan Gardens is the place to be if you’re looking for a stylish stay outside of the city, but with all the fun and exclusivity that London has to offer.
It’s the time of year when personal wellbeing can take a back seat which can end up making us feel sluggish and not so great. If you’re looking for a quick way to boost blood circulation, aid digestion and increase energy levels then these bite-sized workouts could be just what you need this festive season. ‘Fitness snacking’ is a method of working out that can be structured into quick rounds just once or twice a day, making them perfect to squeeze into a packed holiday schedule.
Fitness Professional Haylene Ryan-Causer, founder of the Energy Studio at Volonté in London shares some of her top snackable sessions!
Beat the bloating bubbles with this CHAMPAGNE workout: Feel fabulous and burn up to 80 calories in just ten minutes
X 2 rounds Running on the spot Air Squats Running on the spot Glute Bridges Running on the spot Mountain Climbers
Be Mindful with this MULLED WINE workout: Burn up to 210 Calories in just 20 minutes
Go outside and find some stairs (approximately 20) X5 runs up and walk down followed by 10 Squats – X3 rounds
On just one step X20 Up and Downs on each side, 20 Calf raises on the floor – X3 rounds
The Energy Boosting Eggnog Workout: Fire through over 340 Calories in 30 minutes
X2-3 rounds – followed by a 10 minute fast walk or jog X5 Burpees X10 Jump Squats X15 Push ups X20 Sumo Squats X25 Jumping Jacks X30 Crunches X25 Jumping Jacks X20 Sumo Squats X15 Press Ups X10 Jump Squats X5 Burpees
Do These Digestion Friendly Workouts: ‘Many factors contribute to poor digestion, especially a sedentary lifestyle. Your gut and brain are connected through neurotransmitters. High intensity training and exercising with weights increase the amount of nerve inputs to the muscles and therefore increasing the activity of a neurotransmitter.’ – Haylene Ryan-Causer, founder of the Energy Studio at Volonté
Here is a short daily workout to aid with digestion: X20 High Knees X5 Plank to Crouch X5 Half Burpees X10 Deep Squat Jumps X20 Plank Jacks X20 Alternating crunches X10 Windscreen Wipers
Strength training moves to try: Squats Deadlifts Lunges Horizontal push Horizontal Pull Vertical push Vertical Pull
Volonté’s Energy Studio has been created from Haylene’s belief that the future of fitness studios revolves around building community-led spaces that draw on deeper human connections. With a vision to create a nourishing social environment to restore, energise and connect, each fluid and restorative workout utilises functional equipment. This includes barbells, dumbbells, kettlebells and bands combined with bikes and rowing machines to offer highly rewarding, purpose-led fitness experiences with tailored workouts and mentorship.
With a collective spotlight on nutrition and wellbeing, the studio and café is intrinsically linked, uniting as one with a feel-good menu that supports an effective, full-body workout. Volonté, translating into the French feminine noun for ‘willpower’ – is the realisation of Haylene and her business partner Vidushi Binani, who she has personally trained since the age of 12. It is this personal relationship, combined with their contrasting expertise and ethnicities that inspired the female-duo to create a forward-thinking, inclusive wellbeing space.
The Hypervolt Go 2 is TSA approved, super lightweight and portable to provide relief on the go. Melt away tension from long hours of travelling with Hyperice’s patented QuietGlide technology, meaning you can use without disturbing fellow travellers as it is virtually silent.
Not only is this practical towel functional, it’s pretty damn cute, too. It’s name comes from the unique way it folds as it’s scrunched together, providing more space in your bag for other things. It also features a special knitting technique developed in-house and sports a funky design.
Never get your complimentary bottle of hotel water mixed up with anyone else’s again. Designed to fit most 500ml bottles, the fully adjustable strap allows you to carry your bottle of water over your shoulder – perfect for those mountain hikes.
If you prefer to workout in your hotel room or just don’t want to do your downward dog on a communal gym mat, then look no further. These eco-friendly non-slip exercise mats are the perfect accessory. Light weight make them ideal for traveling and the black strap makes it perfect for carrying around town.
The ultimate travel companion, the sleek size makes it ideal for packing away in your suitcase to make your favourite protein shakes wherever you are in the world. It’s powerful, self-cleaning and all you need is a USB lead to power it.
Forget taking bulky headphones with you when travelling, these wireless earphone fit perfectly into your pocket and are just as powerful. They feature bluetooth and allow calls straight to your ear controlled via buttons on the earphones. 4 hours of playback time.
This invigorating bath and body oil will help to soothe and revive body and mind after a full on workout at the gym. Help those tired legs after a day of hiking when you pour this into a warm bath. With eucalyptus, clove bud and sweet almond your skin will be left feeling soft and supple. Plus with its 100ml bottle it’s ideal for carry on luggage.
This fitness based webcam is the perfect companion for those always on the road looking for a studio worthy workout. Just connect it to your hotel TV and it will display all the classes available on the Peleton app, with a focus on strength training, for you to follow along to.
Lightweight and compact, these resistance bands are perfect for a full-body workout, and you can do them anytime and anywhere without a gym. This band can give resistance up to 200LBS, which is excellent for strength training, Pilates, cardio and recovery.
