Yoga in Jesmond
From heated pods at Hotpod to Iyengar classes above Cafe 1901 — where to practise yoga in and around Jesmond.
Jesmond has a surprisingly varied yoga scene for a neighbourhood its size. Whether you want a heated flow in a purpose-built pod, traditional Iyengar alignment work, or a gentle beginners' class on a Monday evening, there's something here. You don't need to head into the city centre.
Here's what's available.
Hotpod Yoga Newcastle
Hotpod Yoga operates out of the Northumberland Club on North Jesmond Avenue (NE2 3JU). The concept is distinctive: classes take place inside an inflatable, dimly lit pod heated to 37°C. The warmth loosens muscles faster than a standard studio, and the enclosed space creates a cocoon effect that blocks out distractions.
Classes run as Vinyasa-style flows — linking breath to movement through a set sequence. The heat makes them physically demanding, but the teaching is genuinely beginner-friendly. First-timers are welcome, and the instructors are good at offering modifications without making you feel singled out.
Bring a towel — you will sweat. A lot. Water is essential. The pod atmosphere takes a class or two to get used to, but most people who try it become regulars.
Best for: Heated yoga in an inflatable pod — it sounds unusual, but the 37°C warmth and low lighting make for a genuinely immersive practice. Beginner-friendly.
Iyengar Yoga with Rachel Johnson
Rachel Johnson teaches Iyengar yoga at two Jesmond locations: the Jesmond Cricket Club and The Studio above Cafe 1901 on St George's Terrace.
Iyengar is a different discipline from the flow-based classes at Hotpod. The emphasis is on precision and alignment — holding poses for longer, using props (blocks, straps, bolsters) to find the correct position, and building awareness of how your body moves. It's slower than Vinyasa, but more technically demanding in its own way.
Rachel is an experienced and well-regarded teacher. Classes suit all levels, including complete beginners, though the focus on correct form means you'll be gently challenged from the start. The Studio above 1901 is a lovely space — small, calm, and tucked away on one of Jesmond's quieter streets.
Best for: If you want yoga that builds precision and body awareness rather than a workout, Iyengar with Rachel Johnson is the standout option in Jesmond.
Yoga Newcastle
Yoga Newcastle runs a beginners' class in Jesmond on Monday evenings, 7.45–8.45pm. It's aimed squarely at people who are new to yoga or returning after a break — no headstands, no pressure, no expectation that you can touch your toes.
The teaching style is accessible and encouraging. If you've been thinking about trying yoga but feel intimidated by studios full of people in expensive leggings doing things that don't look physically possible, this is a good place to start. One hour, once a week, at a sensible time.
Best for: A proper beginners' class — no experience needed, no judgement, and just one evening a week. A low-commitment way to start a practice.
Newcastle Pilates Studio
Not yoga, strictly speaking, but close enough in spirit to mention. Newcastle Pilates Studio is based at Drake House on Burdon Terrace — right in the heart of Jesmond. The studio runs reformer and mat Pilates classes Monday to Friday 7am–9pm, and Saturdays 9am–2pm.
Pilates shares yoga's emphasis on controlled movement, core strength, and flexibility, but with a more structured, exercise-science approach. The reformer classes use spring-loaded machines that add resistance to movements — excellent for building strength without impact.
If you're choosing between yoga and Pilates, the honest answer is they complement each other well. But if alignment, core strength, and rehabilitation are your priorities, the Pilates Studio on Burdon Terrace is worth a look.
Best for: Reformer and mat Pilates on Burdon Terrace. Mon–Fri 7am–9pm, Sat 9am–2pm. Not yoga, but a strong complement to it.
Other Options
Jesmond Pool on St George's Terrace runs fitness classes that may include yoga or yoga-inspired sessions — check their current timetable. The pool is community-run and not-for-profit, so class offerings change seasonally.
The Northumberland Club (home to Hotpod Yoga) is primarily a tennis and fitness club, and occasionally hosts additional wellness classes beyond the Hotpod schedule. Worth checking their programme if you're already a member.
Choosing the Right Class
A rough guide:
- Want heat, flow, and a workout? Hotpod Yoga.
- Want precision, alignment, and props? Iyengar with Rachel Johnson.
- Never done yoga before? Yoga Newcastle's Monday beginners' class.
- Prefer Pilates? Newcastle Pilates Studio on Burdon Terrace.
Most studios and teachers offer trial classes or introductory rates for newcomers. Try a few before committing to a membership or block booking.
Have a suggestion? Get in touch.