Best Spots, Etiquette and What to Bring
Saunas have long been praised for their ability to promote relaxation, improve circulation and support overall wellbeing. In recent years, the sauna scene in the UK has grown far beyond the standard steam room found at your local gym. From beachfront wood-fired cabins to luxurious countryside spas, there is something for every kind of sauna lover.
This guide will take you through twelve of the best saunas in the UK, along with essential sauna etiquette and what to bring so you can enjoy the experience to the fullest.
Twelve of the Best Saunas in the UK
1. Banya No.1 London
A traditional Russian banya offering authentic experiences such as parenie treatments using oak or birch branches and an icy plunge pool. Located in central London, this sauna is intense and invigorating.
Location: Clerkenwell, London
Style: Russian banya
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2. The Spa at South Lodge West Sussex
This elegant countryside spa features a panoramic sauna overlooking the South Downs. It is ideal for those looking to combine luxury with scenic views and tranquil surroundings.
Location: Horsham, West Sussex
Style: Contemporary panoramic sauna
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3. Haar Sauna Edinburgh
A beachfront wood-fired sauna set directly on Portobello Beach. This unique experience allows visitors to alternate between hot sauna sessions and refreshing sea dips.
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland
Style: Scandinavian beach sauna
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4. The Scarlet Hotel Cornwall
An eco-friendly clifftop retreat with a cedarwood sauna that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. Paired with natural pools and outdoor hot tubs, this destination is perfect for quiet relaxation.
Location: Mawgan Porth, Cornwall
Style: Eco spa sauna with sea views
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5. Rudding Park Spa Harrogate
One of the most luxurious spa locations in Yorkshire. The rooftop spa includes a sauna with garden views, along with herbal steam rooms and a hydrotherapy infinity pool.
Location: Harrogate, North Yorkshire
Style: Modern rooftop spa
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6. Finnebrogue Woods Wild Sauna
Tucked away in ancient woodland, this lakeside sauna offers a quiet and rustic escape. It is heated by fire and is perfect for reconnecting with nature.
Location: County Down, Northern Ireland
Style: Rustic wood-fired sauna
7. The Floating Sauna Lake District
A mobile wood-fired sauna that floats across Lake Windermere. Visitors can enjoy peaceful heat sessions followed by refreshing swims in the lake.
Location: Windermere, Cumbria
Style: Floating lake sauna
8. Saunadelic Bristol
A psychedelic art sauna that travels to events and festivals around the UK. It combines traditional heat with colourful interiors and creative design.
Location: Based in Bristol, travels for events
Style: Mobile art sauna
Image courtesy of Saunadelic
9. Turkish Baths Harrogate
One of the finest remaining Victorian Turkish baths in the UK. It features beautiful architecture, steam chambers of varying temperatures and a cold plunge pool.
Location: Harrogate, North Yorkshire
Style: Traditional Turkish bathhouse
10. Sauna Box Margate
A former horse box converted into a compact and stylish sauna just steps from the beach. Private sessions are available and sea dips are encouraged.
Location: Margate, Kent
Style: Coastal mobile sauna
11. Thermae Bath Spa Somerset
Located in the historic city of Bath, this spa blends ancient Roman heritage with modern wellness. It includes a large sauna, aroma steam rooms and a rooftop thermal pool.
Location: Bath, Somerset
Style: Modern spa inspired by Roman tradition
12. The Bothy at Glen Dye Scotland
A private Finnish-style sauna nestled in a forest on a secluded estate. Guests can enjoy peace and privacy in a natural setting, ideal for a short wellness retreat.
Location: Aberdeenshire, Scotland
Style: Private forest sauna
Sauna Etiquette
How to Respect the Space and Other Guests
To get the most out of your sauna session, it is important to follow a few basic guidelines:
Shower before entering
This removes dirt and sweat from your body, keeping the sauna clean and more pleasant for everyone.
Do not wear shoes inside
Leave your footwear outside the sauna room. Feel free to bring flip flops where possible, also many saunas provide slippers for communal areas.
Make use of sitting on towels
Use a clean towel to sit or lie on, whether you are clothed or not. It protects the benches and improves hygiene.
Keep your voice low
Respect the calm atmosphere. Many people use saunas to relax or meditate, so avoid loud conversation or phone use.
Limit your time if it is busy
In shared saunas, avoid long stays if people are waiting. A typical session lasts between 10 and 20 minutes.
What to Bring to a Sauna?
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit, pack the following:
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Towel (or two): One for sitting and one for drying off
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Swimwear: If required (some saunas allow nudity, others do not)
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Water bottle: Stay hydrated before and after your session
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Flip flops: For walking around spa areas
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Robe (if not provided): Optional but useful for moving between sauna and relaxation areas
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Toiletries: For post-sauna shower and moisturising
Saunas are a simple but powerful way to care for your mind and body. Whether you prefer a wild, off-grid experience or a luxury spa weekend, the UK offers an incredible range of sauna experiences.
Wherever you go, remember to stay hydrated, take breaks between sessions and most of all, enjoy the heat!
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