For some it’s a manicure, for others a facial, but the ultimate extravagance in my world of beauty is massage. I have long promised myself that the minute I can afford the luxury of a weekly massage as a reward for my toils, I would. After all, I can shape my nails or slather on a face mask but work a knot out of my latsissimus dorsi I cannot. Thing is, as every spa junkie knows, a good massage does not come cheap, and an hour’s rubdown can cost between £60-£120, which adds up to an unjustifiable amount these days.

However, I silenced my fiscal critic as a week’s snowboarding had left me sore and bruised. I had a cold I couldn’t shake off and generally my mood was flat. That is, until I discovered the London College of Beauty Therapy on my internet trawls.

The CEO Eileen Cavalier is clear that “we don’t run courses we train for industry and there is a big difference.” The College has an enviable location in Soho with its own salon and a range of treatments to rival any competitor – but at prices which win hands-down. I booked a 75min aromatherapy massage which includes face and scalp at a cost of – wait for it – £25.

The students take real pride in offering a professional service, and I felt like a valued client rather than a paid-up time slot from the moment I booked in. But the communal therapy room had a clinical feel, and the bright lights and chatter of the manicure class in progress was a reminder that this is a place of training rather than your personal sanctuary. Don’t expect a white robe and whale music, but do expect a thorough consultation and a genuine interest in prioritizing your experience.

Aromatherapy uses blended oils to relax or invigorate the body. My therapist, Hannah, was as self-assured as any qualified masseur although when I asked for a deeper pressure halfway through, I still worried that I might jar her confidence. Soon the background noise buzzed away and I was able to relax without that subconscious clock ticking. Her supervisor hovered nearby and checked in at the end for my feedback.

I left the LCBT feeling quite smug. I’d stumbled on my holy grail of indulgences, and ok so you compromise on the luxury part but not the quality or the result. Finally I might make good on my promise, or better it and try out every single treatment on offer at this gem of a budget beauty find.

www.lcbt.co.uk