Athletic-Minded Traveler

This impressive club reflects its upscale Mayfair surroundings and affluent clientele. Any hotel guest in the Mayfair area can work out here for 35BP/day (185BP/week). Otherwise you're out of luck.

Virgin Mayfair is larger than most London clubs. While the ambiance is upscale, it is not snooty. Most members appear fairly serious about working out and going home or back to the office. It has a friendly vibe, but is business-like. Crowds can be a factor, especially for classes like "Spin" where sign-up is recommended. So, try to come here during off-peak hours.

Except for StarTrac ellipticals, all other cardio machines are manufactured by Technogym - that's a good thing. Plenty of strength options are available including free weights, stack-loaded weight stations and dumbbells.

We give this Virgin's pool a C- grade. The 19 meter distance isn't bad (about 21 yards) and three lanes are separated by floating lines. But, we always like to find stripes on the pool's bottom to help lappers plough through the water from one side to the next. This pool doesn't have 'em. Kickboards are available to mix up your wet workout.

Locks can be rented for 1BP.