All About the Russian Banya

It’s a Russian Banya week at Pushkin House and I had an amazing opportunity to speak to “Young Pushkin” Madeleine Cuckson about my mission to bring Banya to the world.
In this podcast we talk about the history of Russian banya in London – how it was brought by Jewish immigrants from Russia in 19th Century and about being the first in bringing it back to London 8 years ago.
We talk about our wellness heritage and its relevance in the modern world where a holistic approach to wellness is widely considered so important that it has practically become a new wealth.
We talk about the authentic wellness experience at Banya No.1 that is honest, original and accessible. If you’ve never tried it before it may blow your mind. It takes you out of your comfort zone and you may become addicted. It’s an perfect spa experience with a capital “E”.
Book your Banya session at Banya No.1
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Is It Safe to Use a Sauna During a Heatwave? Busting the Myths
When the temperatures soar and the city swelters, the idea of stepping into a hot sauna might seem counterintuitive – or even risky. But at Banya No.1 – Hoxton, we know better. With a combination of modern science and centuries of tradition, we’ll show you why using a sauna during a heatwave can not only

Infrared Saunas: Are They Really a Substitute for Traditional Steam?
In the wellness world, infrared saunas are often promoted as a more comfortable, modern alternative to traditional steam rooms. Marketed as efficient tools for detox, relaxation, and even weight loss, they’ve become popular in gyms and spas across the UK. But the question remains: are infrared saunas any good, and how do they compare to

Post-Workout Recovery: Sauna and Cold Plunge in Evidence-Based Perspective
Recovering from a workout is just as important as the exercise itself. Whether you’re hitting the gym, going for a long run, or simply staying active, your muscles need time and support to bounce back. At Banya No.1 – Hoxton, we offer authentic banya and sauna experiences – complete with cold plunge, deep tissue massage

From London to Tbilisi — and Now Paris: The Expanding Family of Banya No.1
Back in 2012, Banya No.1 opened its doors in Hoxton, London — introducing the city to something truly different. This wasn’t just another spa. This was the UK’s first authentic Russian banya, bringing centuries-old wellness rituals to life in a way that was vigorous, social, and intensely effective. Over a decade later, what began as

Can a Sauna Help You Lose Weight?
If you’ve ever stepped into a sauna or banya and emerged feeling lighter, you’re not alone. The sensation of detoxifying sweat and post-session relaxation tends to leave people wondering: Can a sauna help with weight loss? Let’s take a closer look at the facts. Whether it’s a Russian banya or a Finnish sauna, the trend

Vote for Us & Get a FREE Scrub Treatment – Worth £30!
We’re thrilled to share that The Good Spa Guide has named us finalists for the 3rd consecutive year in their prestigious Spa Awards — this time in the Best Traditional Spa Experience category! To help us bring this award home, we’d love your support. Cast your vote for us and enjoy a little thank-you gift

The Times Press Review: Janice Turner visits a traditional Russian banya
Award-winning journalist Janice Turner received a visit to a Banya No.1 – Hoxton as a birthday present from her sons and described her experience in The Times column. Like many of our guests, she experienced a bit of cultural shock when first introduced to the intense heat and leafy branches of our signature Parenie Ritual.

Body Stress Release: Best Way to Detox Your Body
The best way to detox your body is a balanced combination of heat, cold, and rest. At Banya No.1, our time-honoured banya rituals are designed to promote natural detoxification and stress release, leaving you refreshed and recharged. Why Detoxing Your Body Matters Daily life exposes the body to toxins, from environmental pollutants to stress-induced tension.

How to Maximise Recovery & Fitness Goals with Ice Baths
Ice baths are more than just a trend—they’re a science-backed way to enhance recovery and boost performance. Whether you’re into weightlifting, endurance sports, or cardio, the timing and approach to cold exposure can make all the difference. Dive into our expert tips to discover how to tailor ice baths to your fitness goals. The Incredible

Korean Spa vs. Russian Banya
Korean spas and Russian banyas both focus on social wellness and sauna experiences. Korean spas provide a modern, family-friendly environment, while Russian banyas—equally welcoming to families—offer a deeply rooted tradition known for its invigorating effects, detoxification, stress relief, and rejuvenation. This article explores and compares these two unique experiences. In recent years, both Korean spas