USP Claims to be London's first new-generation men-only spa.

AMBIENCE It’s a smartly unpretentious place just off the trend-central Seven Dials in London’s theatreland. The instant impression is of clean, calm, fresh, male-friendly functionality, rather than frightening fluffy towels.

EXPERIENCE Neilee the therapist rubs and smoothes warm gel all over my midriff... My reverie is soon shaken when she breaks into pinchy, slappy Swedish massage on my back, sides and belly, then wraps me in plastic film and warm towels. An express 30 minutes is just enough; then she throws in a wonderful hand massage to soothe my keyboard-ravaged fingers.

FOOD There is none.

IN CROWD Not London celebs yet – but fans at the Paris Nickel are John Malkovich and Jean Paul Gaultier

WALLET WATCH Love handle wrap: 60 min, £55 Express facial: 30 min, £29.

NEED TO KNOW Nickel, 27 Short Gardens, London WC 2H (0207 240 4048; www.nickelspalondon.co.uk)

Read the full review

Times recommends

• Brits in Bangkok furious at lack of rescue
• Britain's 12 best winter walks
• The insiders' guide to bohemian Paris