How did the Russian banya arrive in London?

One of the most common things we hear at Banya No.1 – Hoxton is: “I always sleep incredibly well after.” It sounds anecdotal – but there is both cultural tradition and physiological science behind this experience. So, does sauna actually improve sleep? And is deep sleep after banya something historically expected – or just a

Honey massage is a traditional manual therapy technique that combines the topical application of raw honey with rhythmic mechanical stimulation of the skin and superficial tissues. Originating from Eastern European banya culture and influenced by Tibetan bodywork practices, it is designed to support circulation, lymphatic flow and skin renewal. Unlike oil-based massage, honey massage uses

For most people, visiting a spa once every one to two weeks is a healthy and sustainable rhythm. Regular spa and sauna use can support recovery and relaxation — as long as the frequency matches how well you recover. The ideal rhythm depends on the intensity of heat, the structure of the session, and how

Aufguss: A Ritual, Not Just a Sauna Session Aufguss is a European sauna ritual where heat becomes a shared, guided experience. Originating in Germany and Austria, it combines water infused with essential oils, rising humidity, music and precise towel techniques performed by a sauna master. Unlike casual sauna use, Aufguss follows a structure. This sets

London has no shortage of spas, but private spa experiences are a category of their own. No shared facilities. No strangers. No compromises. Just uninterrupted time in a space designed entirely around you. If you’re choosing a private spa in London – for a couple, a group, or a special occasion – here’s how to

For centuries, the Russian banya has been more than a place to get warm – it’s been a ritual of renewal and resilience, especially during winter. In the depths of the cold season, the banya becomes a refuge of heat, healing and human connection. At Banya No.1 – Hoxton, we honour this winter tradition by

First and foremost — thank you.To our guests and community: your trust, loyalty and continued support make everything we do possible. These awards are a reflection of the experiences you choose, return for and recommend. 2025 has been another year filled with recognition, celebrating excellence across guest experience, wellness and brand standards. Each award reflects

When you think of a sauna, you might picture calm steam and soft heat after a long day. But for women, sauna use can be much more than relaxation — it’s a proven way to support cardiovascular health, hormonal balance, and mental wellbeing. At Banya No.1 – Hoxton, we see how regular sauna sessions help

We’ve all heard it – “sweat it out in the steam room and you’ll feel better.” But does it actually work? And more importantly, is it safe to use a steam room when you’re sick? At Banya No.1 – Hoxton, we love the healing power of heat, cold and rest – the Hot. Cold. Rest.

If you’ve ever visited a traditional Russian banya or Finnish sauna, you’ve probably seen people wearing cone-shaped felt hats. They may look unusual, but these simple accessories play a crucial role in the sauna experience. A banya hat, also known as a sauna hat, is typically made of dense wool or felt. It acts as