The Best Nail Bars For Summer Mani-Pedis In London

Many beauty editors won’t get their toes out for the summer before a visit to one of Cowshed’s award-winning nail spas for a pedicure – and the gel manicures are just as good! Expect treatments that are more ‘spa’ than simple beauty maintenance, with appointments that care for your hands, feet and mind – as well as your nails. That includes the clever combination of tension-relieving shoulder and scalp massages alongside all the exfoliating, buffing, and polishing needed for an exceptional mani-pedi.

Two things make Ruuby’s app-based mani-pedi offering stand out from the crowd. First and foremost, the mobile therapists come to you, including to hotel rooms and offices, so whether you are London-based or just visiting, your nails will be well-taken care of for all your events (including if you suffer a dreaded chip just before your big occasion). Secondly, the app also offers BioSculpture – a gentler and long-lasting gel manicure technique – which has been accurately described as ‘Olaplex for your nails’. This all means that you can rest assured that you are getting convenience and quality combined.

From the decor and tastemakers you’re likely to rub shoulders with, to the Instagrammable nail art you can receive from industry-leading techs, a DryBy mani-pedi is truly luxurious. This is the place to head to if you care about nail prep (which you should!). Your nails will look healthier even before the polish is applied, meaning it is becoming even more popular for helping you embrace the ‘invisible manicure’ trend. Afterwards your post-treatment massage is elevated by the use of high-end creams from brands like La Prairie, Augustinus Bader and Dior.

You’re not alone if you’ve ever chosen a manicure spot purely based on proximity to your house, but paid the price in terms of quality. Luckily, Townhouse is London’s fastest-growing nail bar franchise, meaning it’s likely you’ll see the classic pale pink signage up near you soon if you haven’t already. What’s more, if you always struggle to find inspiration, the Townhouse Lookbook is on hand, featuring everything from the classic nudes that make beauty editors flock here, to chic seasonal nail art ideas.

Our beauty director’s local nail bar is also her top recommendation for long-lasting extensions that instantly upgrade your nails before big events or holidays, and there are now four outposts across North London to choose from. Another bonus is that you can always expect super-friendly and skilled staff who give you real flexibility about how you want your nails to look, with options for nail art, different finishes (including chrome), and the ability to extend your hand massage at the end of your treatment for a little more pampering.

The brainchild of inspirational beauty entrepreneur Sherrille Riley, Nails and Brows was London’s first luxury brow and nail boutique, and it delivers exactly what it says on the tin: namely, indulgent nail and brow appointments you can trust (plus great facials too). And, if you are in a rush, you’ll love the twenty-minute manicure that’s fast but still flawless.

If you want a manicure or pedicure that’s approved by a celebrity nail technician, look no further than Ama in Brixton, which was set up by the award-winning manicurist, Ama Quashie. It’s particularly known for offering natural nail treatments and care for the skin around your nails too, so it’s a must-book for weak or damaged nails in real need of some TLC.

Ever found yourself getting a bit bored while having your nails done? You won’t at Paint Nails, where you can enjoy cocktails and great music while you enjoy your pampering, mere steps away from Oxford Street. It’s not just all fun and games, though. The nail bar also offers a gel guarantee, meaning if, for whatever reason you do chip a nail, you can return and get it fixed for free in a flash.

The delight really is in the details at Iris Avenue, a nail bar known for providing the neatest of nails, including beautiful nail art and long-lasting BIAB. There’s also a bar on site to ensure there’s always a social atmosphere to enjoy with friends and/or colleagues too. Plus, you can squeeze in all your beauty maintenance back-to-back with lash and brow appointments too.

With stylish salons in Covent Garden, Notting Hill, Battersea and Chelsea, Eighty8 has quickly become a trusted address for manicures across London. For anyone feeling a little tight on time, you’ll be glad to know that appointments are efficient without compromising on quality – and that’s true whether you’re after a classic gel, BIAB or a quick refresh before an event.

As soon as you see the imagery on Shoreditch Nails’ website, you’ll want to book in for your mani-pedi, and you won’t be disappointed. That’s how chic and eye-catching the designs you can achieve are. If you love nails so much you want to learn how to do your own, learn from the best by signing up for one of the salon’s tailored courses.

More than just a nail salon, Young LDN offers appointments for nails, brows, lashes and even advanced facials in a sleek, relaxing setting that’s perfect for getting you fully prepped before a big event. For your mani-pedi, you can expect BIAB and gel manicures of the highest standard, alongside an extensive colour selection and attentive technicians who really take their time to achieve the perfect finish.