Rooted in Scandinavian traditions, wild saunas – those nestled by lakes, on remote beaches, or deep in forests—are fast becoming a sought-after escape in the UK too. The combination of intense heat, a natural cold plunge, and the tranquil embrace of the great outdoors creates a powerful reset for both body and mind. And it’s not just about relaxation – science backs the idea that time spent in nature significantly reduces cortisol levels, improves mood, and enhances overall well-being. Pair that with the endorphin rush of a sauna session, and you have a perfect recipe for a wellbeing boost.
The contrast of hot and cold is made even more exhilarating when the cold plunge is taken in a wild lake or the sea. This natural setting amplifies the benefits, stimulating circulation, boosting immune function, and leaving you with a natural dopamine high.
We’ve rounded up our favourite wild saunas, from the Lake District to the Cornish coast – unique locations to sweat in solitude, followed by an invigorating dip in nature’s own icy bath.
12 Wild Sauna Locations
Shoreline Sauna, Dorset
Looking out over the historic Cobb in Lyme, pop to Swim after your sauna for the best breakfast in town. Explore more.
Blackpool Sands, South Devon
Just outside Dartmouth, right on the sands, take a sauna looking over the cove before a refreshing spring-fed shower – and why not combine it with a paddle board session too?
Explore more.
Plymouth, Devon
At the heart of Plymouth’s maritime history, Royal William Yard’s waterfront is the location of Halogi’s sauna experience. With cold tubs to refresh you after your session, it’s the perfect balance of fire and ice. Explore more.
Sea Scrub Sauna Margate, Kent
Bring up to eight friends for a communal sauna on the seafront in Margate and add in a salt scrub with aromatic oils to boost the sensory experience. Explore more.
Sea and Steam, Pembrokeshire
With a panoramic view of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, book in and zone out watching the waves before perhaps diving in yourself – if you dare. Explore more.
Steam and Salt, North Shields
With dramatic cliffs on either side, King Edward’s Bay offers a stunning view of the North Sea. Wrap up from the chill in the sauna tent, before a quick dash into the waves, to revitalise your body and mind. Explore more.
Sauna Hut Wales, The Gower Area
A genius mobile sauna on wheels, travelling around The Gower area to various wild spots. With the crackle of the wood-fired sauna and wild rivers and seas to dip into, book with friends or family for an immersive wellbeing experience. Explore more.
Fire, Salt & Sea, West Sussex
Fire, Salt & Sea in Worthing has a strong community following. Dip in to its weekly communal session and take part in a group sea swim after. Explore more.
Olla Hiki Sauna, Cornwall
Renowned for its beach vibes, Newquay’s Olla Hiki Sauna is situated on North Fistral beach in the perfect spot for catching the sunset. Watch the surfers as your body unwinds in the warmth, with authentic sauna hats and birch branches for a true Scandi experience. Explore more.
La’al Sauna, Lake District
Crafted from a vintage Horse Box, La’al’s mobile sauna is located lakeside, for the perfect post-session dip. Using locally sourced logs to fire the sauna and insulated with wool from local sheep, it’s a true Lake District experience not to miss. Explore more.
Hive Sauna, Mobile - Manchester area
Holding residences around Manchester, Hive Sauna was built in lockdown to provide access to an authentic wild sauna and cold plunge experience. Check the website to see which spot they’re popping up in next. Explore more.
Wareham, Dorset
Nestled away in the Dorset forest, the truly immersive experience includes an authentic Finnish sauna, wooden cold plunge tubs and even a forest dining experience to make the most of your time in nature. Explore more.
Tip:
Wildsaunas.info is a brilliant map resource to show you the nearest wild saunas to you.
