The Rise of Sauna Culture in London
1. The Rise of Sauna Culture in London
London, a city known for its bustling streets and vibrant culture, has recently embraces a new trend: sauna bathing. This ancient practice, long revered in countries like Finland and Japan, has captured the hearts of Londoners, particularly among the younger crowd. In a small sauna room in east London, the air is thick with heat, reaching over 90 degrees Celsius, as participants eagerly absorb the warmth. This scene is just one of many across the city, where sauna sites have more than tripled in the past two years. The sauna is not just a place to sweat; it’s an emerging social hub where people gather to disconnect from the chaos of daily life and reconnect with others.
2. Community and Connection in the Sauna
Saunas are more than just a place to sweat; they’re a communal space fostering connection. In a world increasingly dominated by digital interactions, the sauna offers a refreshing respite, encouraging face-to-face communication. "Sauna lowers inhibitions and gives a mild euphoria," notes Charlie Duckworth, co-founder of Hackney Wick Community Sauna Baths. This shared experience creates a sense of community, much like a pub or church. Participants find themselves opening up in ways they might not in other settings, leading to deeper connections and a sense of belonging. The sauna’s ability to break down barriers and foster intimacy is a key reason for its growing popularity.
3. Creative Twists on a Traditional Practice
The UK’s sauna culture is putting a fresh spin on tradition, blending heat therapy with music, scents, and creative activities. From DJ nights to poetry workshops, these innovative events attract those seeking more than just relaxation. At Peckham Sauna Social, weekends feature ambient music and non-alcoholic cocktails, while "Creative Writing Saunas" offer a unique space for literary expression. Caroline Druitt, a writer leading these workshops, notes the unexpected challenge of writing while sweaty, yet finds the environment conducive to creative flow. These twists not only modernize the sauna experience but also attract a diverse crowd, ensuring its relevance in contemporary culture.
4. Health Benefits of Regular Sauna Use
Beyond the social and creative aspects, saunas offer significant health benefits. Regular sauna use is linked to reduced stress, improved cardiovascular health, and enhanced mental clarity. Gabrielle Reason of the British Sauna Society emphasizes that consistent sauna practice can yield these benefits. For Callum Heinrich, a regular sauna-goer, the experience is a mental reset, providing clarity and calm. While more research is needed, anecdotal evidence and studies suggest that sauna bathing can be a powerful tool for overall well-being.
5. The Growth of Sauna Establishments in the UK
The UK’s sauna culture is flourishing, with the number of public sauna sites surging from 45 in 2023 to 147 in 2025. Charlie Duckworth’s Hackney Wick Community Sauna Baths exemplifies this growth, expanding from a modest start in a parking lot to multiple locations across London. This rapid expansion reflects a broader cultural shift towards holistic wellness and social connection. As more people discover the joys of sauna bathing, the demand for unique and accessible sauna experiences continues to rise.
6. A New Social Hub for Modern Times
Saunas are becoming a new kind of social hub, offering a space where people can gather without the need for alcohol. In a city where pubs are traditional social venues, saunas provide an alternative, promoting wellness and togetherness. The combination of heat, creativity, and community creates a unique atmosphere that appeals to those seeking more meaningful experiences. As Jess Carmichael reflected after her first sauna experience, "I think people need this right now—this warmth and shared experience." The sauna’s role in fostering connection and well-being ensures its place as a significant cultural phenomenon in London’s evolving social landscape.
