Russian bath and wellness spa in Shoreditch
Looking for something completely different? Look no further. I have just discovered Banya No.1, a wonderful Russian bath and wellness spa that offers invigorating organic treatments like no other. If you like spa treatments in London, this is definitely one to check out.
Banya No.1 opened in 2012 – right now 45% of their clientele are Russian-speaking, and 55% come from everywhere else; so you can see it’s definitely very popular amongst Russians and non-Russians alike.
In both the public and private spa, food and drinks are available to order. They serve a good variety of authentic Russian dishes, which can be washed down with a choice of herbal teas, beer, wine – and vodka, of course. I have to say, I was so hot during my visit that food was far from my mind… but once I stepped out into the cold autumnal air I felt ravenously hungry.
I had chosen to do my treatment on a women-only day, but they also do mixed-spa days. I arrived for my three-hour treatment with no idea of what was in store, but rather excited at the prospect. The staff were very friendly and helpful, and once I had changed into my swimwear (I made the mistake of bringing a one-piece swimsuit, but a bikini is much better for this treatment) and taken off all my jewellery (electronic lockers are provided) I was led through the process step by step. You are provided with a towel and a rather funny-looking wool hat that made me look a bit like a garden gnome; this you wear in the hot room to protect your head; it keeps your head dry and cool and prevents your hair from being damaged, so vanity must take a back seat here.
A banya has a special room where a large amount of steam is created with the help of hot water and air. It’s a bit like a sauna, but slightly cooler and the steam is much wetter, making it easier to bear, with the added benefit of being more hydrating and detoxifying. It is also much healthier because it won’t dry your throat out.
Built of wood, with wide wooden benches built up like steps, a classic banya is heated with firewood. You can sit or lie on the benches; the higher up you go, the hotter it gets. Here at Banya No.1 the staff come in and stoke the fire and wave branches infused with eucalyptus around your head creating a wonderfully refreshing aroma – and lots more heat!
You can go to the banya just to enjoy the spa, but they also offer a range of different treatments. On my third return to the hot room, I had the Parenie massage.
The Parenie massage
The Parenie is stress-relieving thermal massage, which takes place in the steam room. The massage is given by a fully-trained Banshik, who brushes leafy bundles of oak twigs (called venik) infused with eucalyptus over the body. This heightens the banya experience by swooshing the steam across your skin and making you sweat profusely. It also stimulates blood circulation, improves metabolism and relieves stress-related muscle tension and joint pain. The essential oils released by Venik are said to boost the immune system, calm the nervous system, helping to reduce high blood pressure and preventing premature ageing. Well, what’s not to love? But I have to say it was quite overwhelming; the intense heat and strange sensation of been lightly beaten with twigs takes a little getting used to. A normal Parenie is done by one Banshik, but for a more intense experience, you can have two Banshiks – which I wouldn’t recommend on your first visit…That said, I did feel amazing afterwards and I spoke to a woman who swears by it, visiting for a treatment every week and enjoying parenie with two Banshiks.
The Honey and Salt Scrub
This was a heavenly way to finish off my session. For this scrub, you have to wear the ‘bare’ minimum and lie on a marble slab in a private room. My female therapist was lovely and professional and gave me an all over honey and salt scrub which cleansed, moisturised and detoxified whilst removing all the dead skin cells. It felt wonderfully nourishing and relaxing, gently cleansing my skin, while honey, vitamins and minerals moisturised and nourished.
After showering and enjoying a final cup of tea, I left all aglow. My skin felt soft and smooth, and I felt relaxed yet remarkably invigorated and rejuvenated. I noticed that my face retained a wonderful glow for a couple of days…
I might just have to go back!
17 Micawber St,
Hoxton,
London N1 7TB
+44 (020) 7253-67-23
this sounds like an interesting spa experience, especially the oak twig treatment. I agree with you that the last thing I want during a spa session is to eat, and I certainly would not want to drink vodka. The cups of tea sound more suitable.
I remember seeing this spa on the television and it got very mixed reviews. However, the treatments they offer look very interesting.
this place looks incredible, although I rather think I might need to have a pamper session at home before going here, it looks so posh and not the place to turn up with hairy legs!
I had no idea there was a spa in Shoreditch let alone one as fascinating as this. Delighted to read your review and to know about it now. Thank you.
This place looks so cute and relaxing! It’s a shame this is nowhere near where I live, otherwise I’d give it a visit!
When you hear Russian you think of muscly ladies and powerful massages but this sounds lovely