It can truly be said that Venik is symbolic of the Russian banya. Veniks are carefully prepared bundles of leafy twigs from various trees. These are used to bring steam to the skin and massage the body during Parenie treatment. This treatment has profound therapeutic value thanks to the medicinal compounds in the Veniks. Banya

The air in the banya may be up to 70 degrees Celsius, but a felt hat will keep the air around your head at a comfortable temperature. So the felt hat comes to the recue! It keeps the head dry and cool, and – this is for the ladies – it prevents your hair being

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.

Journalist and writer Eilidh Dorgan visited Banya No.1 Hoxton to try a women’s clothing-optional banya session and write about Britain’s growing interest in sauna nudity. She arrived feeling nervous and slightly out of place, only to find that most of the other guests had chosen to keep their swimwear on, which made the experience feel

We’re proud to share that Time Out has ranked Banya No.1 – Hoxton #1 in its list of “The Best Spas in London.” The guide highlights the authentic Russian banya experience and our signature Parenie ritual. As the article notes: “A Russian banya is hotter than your average sauna, so you’ll be handed a grey

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

Every November, the UK participates in International Stress Awareness Week – a time to pause, reflect and act on one of the most pervasive issues of modern life: stress. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, juggling work, city life or parenting – a step into the heat of the steam, the calm of wood and the ritual

The naked sauna has always been more than heat and steam. Across cultures it symbolises freedom, equality and community. For newcomers in the UK, it can feel unusual – but once you understand the history and etiquette, the experience quickly makes sense. This guide explores naked sauna traditions and nude sauna culture, from Russian banya

Another birthday, anniversary or Christmas is on the horizon, and you have no idea what to buy. You want something personal but not predictable; meaningful but not complicated. That’s where a spa gift comes in — a thoughtful experience that suits anyone: your friend, partner, colleague or parent. At Banya No.1 – Hoxton, we believe

Banya is not like going to a regular spa – it’s a transformative wellbeing experience that has to be seen to be understood. Banya No.1 is bringing the best of this unique, Russian tradition to locations around the world, starting in London, and our co-founder, Andrei Fomin, advocates for its benefits around the world. In

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

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

Immerse yourself in the warmth of camaraderie and the steam of tradition with these ten transformative social wellness experiences at the Russian Banya. In an increasingly digital and isolated world, the timeless practices of communal steam baths offer an organic escape and a unique opportunity to strengthen social bonds. From invigorating rituals to shared meals

New Year is the time when we love to embark on a “new life,” all matters have been postponed until January, and there’s no turning back. Today, I won’t write about recovering from long holidays, feasts, and alcohol intoxication. Instead, I’d like to offer advice—cultivate new beneficial habits in 2024. If you already have three