strength · mindfulness · flow
Classical Pilates classes near Harpenden,
Pilates the way it was meant to be
A boutique, full equipment studio on the Luton Hoo Estate — just minutes from Harpenden and Luton, and a world away from the average gym class.
Why choose The Pilates Barns?
Expert Teachers
Highly qualified teachers helping you build strength, improve joint mobility and return to movement without pain.
Community
Our Pilates classes are small with just a maximum of 8, creating a warm community of like-minded individuals.
All Abilities Welcome
From complete beginners short courses to full apparatus classes, we have sessions for all levels and abilities.
Premium Comfort
Fully air-conditioned studios, free parking, and a nearby coffee shop for those all important after class chats!
Thank you Richard, Clare and the members of this lovely group. 😊
The studio offers a huge variety of classes throughout the week, and some at weekends making it easy to find something that fits my schedule. Whether you're a complete beginner or have years of experience, there is a class to suit every ability, and always a friendly welcome.
The air-conditioned studio makes exercising comfortable all year round, even in the recent heatwave, and the easy parking is a real bonus that takes the stress out of getting to class.
It's a professional, welcoming environment with exceptional teaching and amazing equipment. If you're looking for high-quality classical Pilates, this is the place to be!
As someone who hasn’t done any form of exercise in over 15 years (apart from walking), I was quite anxious to begin with and a bit scared that I’d end up quitting like I have many times in the past with the gym. But from the very beginning something just felt different.
The classes are well structured, the atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed, and every instructor I’ve worked with has been incredibly supportive and encouraging. Like one of the trainers said, pilates really does have a kind of magic about it that other forms of exercise don’t, and I can definitely see what they meant.
I’ve already noticed improvements in my strength, control, and overall confidence, even after just a few weeks. It’s also been amazing to be part of such a great group, the energy in the studio really makes a difference.
I’m genuinely looking forward to continuing my journey and building on what I’ve started. Highly recommend to anyone thinking about trying reformer pilates!
The teachers are incredibly skilled at tailoring the workout to your level and are great at checking to make sure that your form is always spot on!
Working with Clare and her team at The Pilates Barns has done wonders for my back and has led to huge improvements in my core strength and posture.
Although the studio and equipment are amazing - with high-end reformers, ladder barrels, and Wunda chairs etc - it is the quality of the teaching that truly sets it apart from other studios. It’s a professional, supportive space that makes every session a joy!
Starting from the drive through the tree-lined road with beautiful views of the countryside!
The Pilates Barns inside is very cosy but at the same time it provides top top top quality equipment and teaching. Brand new combined reformers and Pilates towers, Pilates Combo Wunda Chairs, equipment for ballet stretching and much more.
The teachers are all so professional and really nice. The vibe during the classes is so positive and relaxed. There is always a change for a good laugh! Clare and her team are real experts, with attention to any movement, big or small, you take whilst practising during their classes. This studio offers Pilates for every level, a chance to improve and feel better. I’ve been working with Rufina and Clare for the past two years in St Albans and my posture, my back and my body in general just keep benefiting from their classes. I am so glad there is such an amazing Pilates studio in Harpenden which can be easily accessed from surrounding areas! Highly recommended.
Vicky was so calm and clear in her instruction, and encouraging along the way. Cannot wait to go back for lesson no. 2.
If you are wanting to dip your toe into Pilates but are unsure, you will be made to feel welcome and put at ease.
Newly opened so a great choice of class times and all new equipment.
I've joined classes with Claire, Richard and Michaela - all had a keen eye for good form, making the difference for getting the most out of your time/energy!
I've struggled with hip problems for about 4 years and nothing I've tried so far has had the substantial and holistic improvement of 6 weeks here. I'm looking forward to seeing how much tone I can achieve after another 6!
I have always been impressed with the teaching you all provide it’s so individual and tailored to each of your clients. As the classes are so small it allows you to really focus in on individuals which is so welcoming, I really notice if I’ve missed a session. I’ve never stuck at exercise for such a long period of time it really is now just a part of my life, so thank you so welcoming me in and teaching me.
Welcome to The Studios
Reformer Pilates Harpenden: Pilates Classes Grounded in Science, Tailored to You
Founded by Clare Axon-Saunders, The Pilates Barns was created to offer a sanctuary where movement is guided by anatomy, evidence, and individual progression. We move away from generic fitness trends to focus on classical apparatus, the method as a whole, and body awareness in small group settings. Contrology, the exercise program developed by Joseph Pilates, and now known simply as Pilates, is a full body workout. It is functional not fancy, it is a workout not a stretch, and it is suitable for every body.
Read more about our story
Clare Axon-Saunders has been in the Pilates industry for over 20 years. In that time, the original Pilates Method has changed very little. However, the image around Pilates and the science around Pilates has changed substantially! Clare’s mission is to take people back to Contrology, the way Pilates was originally intended but incorporating modern day science to ensure that clients leave feeling not only confident in themselves but confident in their body and able to move without fear.
We are incredibly fortunate at The Pilates Barns to offer a diverse collective of highly skilled instructors, ensuring we have a teacher perfectly suited for your unique journey and goals. As Clare explains:
“The Pilates Method, when utilised with the nuanced understanding Joe intended, is the perfect full-body discipline. As contemporary science evolves and our knowledge of the body and mind deepens, we integrate evidence-based practices into your workout, making it even more effective and transformative.”
“Our teachers are not just instructors; they are dedicated professionals who have undergone rigorous training programs. Each brings a unique specialisation to our studio: my own focus, and that of those I have personally trained, is on evidence-based Classical Pilates. We empower clients to move with greater ease and vitality, with a distinct emphasis on building functional strength for a healthier, pain-free life.”
“Our other highly trained teachers offer classes meticulously focused on precision, grace, and posture, guiding clients towards a deep mind-body connection and effortless movement. This breadth of expertise means we are uniquely positioned to offer a Pilates experience truly tailored for each individual, whatever their goals are”.
The Pilates Barns currently has two Studios in Hertfordshire. Our main studio is situated in the stunning Luton Hoo Estate, just minutes from Harpenden and Luton. A truly beautiful space set in a peaceful location. Our smaller, second studio is in St Albans.
How to start your Pilates journey
Get started in 3 simple steps
Step 1
Pick Your Pass
Choose our low commitment Starter Pack or a Discovery Pack to explore all apparatus.
Step 2
Reserve your Reformer
Use our simple mobile app or website to book your preferred session times at your convenience.
Step 3
Feel the Difference
Walk into an expert led, small group class tailored entirely to your body’s goals and movement needs.
Ready to Experience Classical Pilates?
Book your Starter Pack today and take the first step toward strength, mindfulness, flow & community.