A
Andrew Ffrench
Guest
As tourists wander back and forth along Broad Street outside a boutique Oxford hotel, they may not realise that the perfect remedy to a tiring 10,000 steps around the city is situated just a few feet below.
The Store opened in May last year, following the closure of Boswell's department store.
And its Spa at The Store offers a series of relaxing treatments which can be booked by everyone, not only hotel guests.
READ MORE: The Store boutique hotel opens in Oxford
Cocooned in walnut panelled walls, the luxurious spa is located on the lower ground floor, and offers three treatment rooms.
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There is a steam room, sauna, thermal relaxation area and gym; alongside treatments from world-renowned British brand Oskia.
Oskia take a results-driven approach to treatments, combining bespoke anti-ageing techniques, drawing both on traditional knowledge and modern advancements, to leave the skin, body and mind rejuvenated and glowing.
Oskia facials, massages, body treatments, personal training and yoga are available to guests of The Store and members of the public.
The £150 Store Signature Spa Experience is available to book, Monday to Friday.
(Image: The Store) The relaxation package includes 60 minutes in the Thermal Suite (Sauna, Hammam steam room and experience shower, robes and slippers provided) followed by either a luxurious facial or a full body warm oil massage to leave you glowing from within. You then have an allocated amount (£35) towards lunch in the Treadwell Restaurant.
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There are a series of different spa treatment packages available on the hotel's website.
Another treatment is the Oskia Indulgent Escape Facial (£115).
This conditioning facial looks perfect for those who want to unwind with skin that's renewed.
The Store says: "Oskia's gentle exfoliating peel and nourishing mask ensures skin is smoothed and softened. Lymphatic facial massage and scalp massage leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed."
We visited the Spa at The Store to see just how relaxing a treatment could be.
We were escorted down to the fragrant spa area, where we were given a very warm welcome by Luke.
He was extremely knowledgeable about the Oskia products used in the treatments.
There is a cute candle in a little jug and when lit, the 'wax' became an aromatic oil which can be used as a nourishing body treatment.
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(Image: The Store) While waiting in the small relaxation area, I read a volume produced by the Poetry Pharmacy - a collection of well-loved poems, one for every possible mood.
There is an 'experiential shower' to try, and a sauna and steam room, the latter scented with eucalyptus.
My shoulder back and neck massage, plus facial with spa practitioner Ellie-May was an hour of pure bliss.
There was never a sense of being rushed. This made the experience more luxurious than any I have ever had before.
(Image: Oxford Mail) The treatment itself was simply perfection; a restorative massage on my back, and upwards, followed by a detailed, multi-stage facial which left me glowing and my skin looking clear.
Next time you walk along Broad Street, why not call in at The Store and book a spa session for you, or for friends and family?
The Spa at The Store is a welcoming world-class spa in the heart of Oxford and very easy to access.
For more visit: thestoreoxford.com/spa-wellness