The 5 best nail salons in London that’ll awaken the main character in you
When the company announced its anniversary party, we had a brief moment of delusion where we thought surely one of us knew how to do nails. But as you’ve probably guessed, that delusion didn’t last long. There’s zero nail-art talent in our building.
With an event full of photos and hands constantly on display, showing up with bare or badly done nails felt like a crime.
So instead of pretending we could learn nail art in a month, we did what made way more sense: we went hunting for the best nail salons in London. We talked to other women in the city and visited the shops to get a real sense of what they offer.
Here are the ones we found that consistently deliver clean, beautiful nails!
How much do nail salons charge in London?
Nail salons in London typically charge around £25–£40 for a classic manicure and £40–£70 for gel or shellac nails. Prices can vary depending on the design, the polish used, and the location of the nail salon.
1. PAINT Nails London
Address: 28 Market Pl, W1W 8AW
Phone: +44 20 8127 1121
Business hours:
- Monday – Friday: 10 AM – 8 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM – 6 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM – 6 PM
PAINT Nails London won us over with their signature “nails + cocktails” experience. The addition of the drink gives the entire experience a different level of pampering and makes the salon feel more like a lounge.
The variety of gel shades is another big plus. They have over 150 gel shades, so clients get enough options for whatever design they want. This allows for a level of customisation other shops don’t offer.
Among their nail services, we loved their BIAB manicures the most. According to the clients we talked to, the manicure helped strengthen natural nails. Plus, the glossy finish actually lasted for weeks without chipping.
If you’re looking for more drama or just want longer nails, PAINTNAils also offers soft gel extensions and sculpted nails.
Another thing that stood out to us is that the salon also offers manicure and pedicure services to men, which isn’t always available everywhere.
The salon also offers luxurious treatments such as nail repair and infills to maintain perfection between visits.
We just found the lounge a bit noisy when we visited. It might be because it was a weekend and there were a lot of clients.
Professional staff with impeccable service
“I had such a wonderful experience at Paint Nails London while visiting from the States. The ladies working there were incredibly warm and welcoming. They offer delicious cocktails, tea, and coffee, along with truly exceptional service.
Jordan did my pedicure — she was not only lovely and sweet but also did an amazing job. My friend had her nails done by Angie, who was equally incredible, beautiful, and so talented.
It was such a pleasure meeting them both. I absolutely love this place and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for the perfect nail experience in London.”
2. Iris Avenue Nail and Beauty Bar
Address: 32 Store St, Fitzrovia, WC1E 7BS
Phone: +44 20 7636 8866
Business hours:
- Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday: 10 AM – 7 PM
- Thursday – Friday: 10 AM – 8 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 6 PM
Iris Avenue is the ultimate pampering spot in London. It combines a nail bar, beauty spa, and cocktail bar. This makes every visit feel more like an indulgent, slow-paced experience.
Walking in, we were struck by the elegant furnishings and soft lighting, which set a sophisticated tone.
The cocktail offering is a big part of what makes the visit memorable. Sipping a Negroni during the manicure made everything feel more relaxed and elevated.
The Cool Girl Nails and Cocktails comes with a cocktail, a manicure, and a tier 1 nail art at just £90. While that sounds steep, we found it reasonable for the inclusions.
The technicians meticulously shape and buff each nail, ensuring the polish goes on flawlessly without smudges. Plus, the nail art is actually beautiful and clean, so the price is well worth it.
Besides nail services, Iris Avenue also offers lash services, threading, and brow lamination. Body services like massage treatments, spray tanning, and waxing are also available.
We do recommend getting a reservation, though. The salon fills up quickly, especially on weekends.
Exceptional wedding prep and pampering
“Really loved my experience at Iris Avenue today. I had my nails, brows and a spray tan done ahead of my wedding and couldn’t be happier with the results.
The whole team were so lovely, attentive and professional, and they made me feel completely at ease from start to finish. I left feeling really confident and well looked after, I’d highly recommend them to anyone. Will defo be back!!”
– Shannon O’Neill, Google Review
3. Trieu Nails London
Address: 105 Roman Rd, Bethnal Green, E2 0QN
Phone: +44 20 8981 8161
Business hours:
- Monday – Friday: 12 PM – 9 PM
- Saturday – Sunday: 10 AM – 7 PM
We went to Trieu Nails London in Bethnal Green, and it’s easy to see why so many people love this store.
The technicians are clearly well-trained. While looking at their portfolio, we were amazed by their flexibility. They can do a wide range of designs, from classics to more young-adult-friendly designs.
The polish is also applied evenly and cleanly, with no clear strokes or smudges.
They offer a variety of nail services too. They offer Shellac nail polish, BIAB manicure, and acrylic sets.
Prices are reasonable for the quality provided: a basic manicure is £26, BIAB Gel £47, and Gel-X Tips £58. For clients who value consistency, Trieu Nails offers a complimentary repair within one week if any issues arise.
We also appreciate their extended hours. They’re open until 9 PM on weekdays, and until 7 PM on weekends. This gives clients plenty of time after work to get their nails done.
Skilled technicians with a warm atmosphere
“I had an amazing experience at this salon! Noviah was professional and friendly – she had a vision for the design, which I loved. She helped me choose the perfect colors and made my visit truly enjoyable.
Not only is she a fantastic technician, but also a wonderful person to chat with. The salon has a warm and lively atmosphere, and I absolutely love my new nails. Thank you!”
– Liza Kazakova, Google Review
4. Townhouse Nail Salon, Victoria
Address: 129 Victoria Street, SW1E 6RD
Phone: +44 20 7947 0100
Business hours:
- Monday – Wednesday: 9 AM – 8 PM
- Thursday: 9 AM – 9 PM
- Friday: 9 AM – 8 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM – 8 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM – 7 PM
Townhouse Nail Salon does elegant nails best. Out of all the portfolios we’ve seen, we found their past work the most elegant. Even when the nails have designs and bold colours, the technicians somehow make them look classy and elegant.
Even their exclusive “New York After Dark” nail art line looks elegant despite being intended to be bolder.
The salon itself reflects that elegance. With soft lighting, minimalist decor, and gentle music, the place feels both luxurious and relaxing.
One of our researchers booked their Signature Gel Manicure and was very happy with the nail tech. She provided guidance on colour selection, so making a decision didn’t feel hard. She was also very careful and attentive, from shaping to cuticle care.
Besides nail care, Townhouse also offers hot cream hand massages and extended pampering sessions.
Prices are a bit on the higher side, though. A Signature Manicure is £42, and custom nail art starts at £50.
They also have limited experience in highly detailed nail art. If you’re looking for drawings of your favourite anime or just something that’s highly, this might not be the best place for you.
Top-quality nails worth travelling for
“Kherisha Was absolutely wonderful I’m from the US and I have never in my life had such perfect manicure let alone a French that was evenly done. I will be visiting the NY location! 10/10 recommend if your in the area don’t go to anyone else.”
– Marisa Valletta, Google Review
5. Nail Spa Marylebone
Address: 5 Paddington St
Phone: +44 20 3838 8081
Business hours:
Monday – Saturday: 10 AM – 7 PM
Sunday: 11 AM – 6 PM
Nail Spa Marylebone is one of the most recommended nail salons in London, mainly because it has been around for 20 years. It has built a solid reputation and a loyal customer base, so it’s no surprise to hear about it while researching.
Unlike other salons that boast elegant interiors, Nail Spa Marylebone has a simpler and more straightforward interior. With just shelves of nail polish and a few tables, there’s nothing fancy about the salon itself.
The service, though, feels premium. The polishes they use are high-quality, with many of the customers we talked to sharing that their nails lasted for weeks without chipping.
The technicians are very skilled too. They can do a wide variety of designs, even highly detailed ones. We’ve seen them mix various colours, do magnetic designs, and draw fish and snowmen.
Their service menu is comprehensive too. Besides gel nails and custom nail art, they also offer waxing, facials, and the Japanese Headspa.
One downside, though, is that the place can get really busy. Plus, since the tables are so closely placed next to each other, the place can get noisy.
First visit that exceeds expectations
“Had my first visit here today and what a treat!! Got a gel manicure and a gel pedicure from Han (hope I’ve spelt it right!) and it took everything for me to not fall asleep during the pedicure. It was sooooo relaxing and just incredible!
Han was so meticulous and thorough. Really had a great time and so glad I finally tried this place out. I’m already planning my next pedicure in my head! Thank you, Han!”
– Sahrish Zuberi, Google Review