Whether it’s spending more time outdoors, pampering yourself with a wellness treatment, or simply trying something new, the arrival of spring always motivates us to do more things that make us feel good. Full of stunning architecture, gorgeous green spaces, fascinating cultural experiences and a wealth of options for wellness or retail therapy, Regent Street and St James’s is the perfect place to enjoy a spring day out. So we’ve rounded up some of the best rejuvenating activities for your next visit there!
1. Visit the Regent Street Sensorium
This multi-sensory immersive exhibition at 10 Heddon Street will take you on a journey through the history of Regent Street, re-awakening your senses along the way. Crafted in collaboration with masters of immersive experiences, Regent Street’s boutique fragrance maker, Aromaria (located in Quadrant Arcade), along with Bompas & Parr, the exhibition features an interactive museum, workshops, and more. Visit until April 27, Wednesday-Sunday only, for the ultimate revitalizing spring activity.
2. Bring some sensory delights home with you
Want to keep re-awakening your senses even after you head back home? Stop by Aromaria’s store to find your perfect bespoke fragrance, or nip into Aesop or Earl of East to pick up some stunningly scented goods. Whether it’s a candle, diffuser or some luxurious hand soap – every breath you take this spring will smell utterly delightful.
3. Put a spring in your step with new activewear
Experiencing that surge of springtime energy when you look at those blue skies and lighter days? Make the most of it with a rejuvenating workout in some fresh new activewear from Alo Yoga, Vuori or Gymshark’s flagship store on Regent Street. Exercising never looked so good!
4. Admire some thought provoking sculptures
Visit the White Cube Art Gallery in St James’s this April and explore an exhibition of Antony Gormley’s early lead sculptures. With artworks ranging from the mid-1970s right up until the ’90s, the lead sculptures are among the most important pieces of the London-based artist’s career.
5. Dine out in style, enjoying flavours from around the world
Whatever you’re in the mood for you’ll find a restaurant that takes your fancy in Regent Street and St James’s. If you’re craving fresh Mediterranean flavours, head over to Claro at Waterloo Place, or if you’re after a rich taste of Punjab book at table at the Ambassador’s Clubhouse on Heddon Street. Don’t forget on select Fridays, you can also dance that night away at Ambassy, the Ambassador’s after hours party with resident and guest DJs creating a vibrant fusion of Punjabi, dance and UK sounds.
6. Press reset on your spring wardrobe with some sharp tailoring
Feeling like a change with the change of the weather? Or perhaps you’ve done a big spring clean and have some space in your wardrobe again? Head to St James’s and stop by Kathryn Sargeant on Ryder Street, or Emma Willis on Jermyn Street for some perfectly tailored pieces. And if the weather isn’t quite as warm as you hoped, visit Mandkhai for some gorgeous cashmere finds that are perfect for layering.
7. Spend some time in nature at St James’s Park
If you’re looking for a pretty spot to have a picnic with friends, or to just enjoy some me-time, it’s hard to think of a better place to do so than St James’s Park. From the daffodils and tulips in full bloom to the ducks and swans gliding on the serene lake with Buckingham Palace in view, there are beautiful sights to feast your eyes on, quite literally wherever you look.
8. Pamper yourself with a wellness treatment
After a lovely spring day spent exploring Regent Street and St James’s why not book yourself in for a wellness treatment. Akasha Spa at Hotel Café Royal offers luxurious holistic massages and a wide range of spa facilities including a pool, hammam, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and London’s only Watsu pools. Meanwhile, Sofitel Spa, known as the ‘home of the facial’, should be your go-to for facial treatments. Whether you choose the award-winning HydraFacial, or a session with skincare pioneer Su-Man, you’re bound to leave feeling like a new person!
Want to enjoy a post-swim tipple? Haymarket Hotel’s ‘more bar than spa’ 55ft pool comes with a spectacular ever changing light installation, creating a wonderful setting for a poolside cocktail once you’ve dried off.