Frequently Asked Questions

    • Swimwear

    • Two towels (one to sit on, one to dry off)

    • Flip flops or easy slip-on shoes

    • A water bottle

    We also have towels available if needed (£2 each) — guests can just let us know.

  • Swimwear is required for all public sessions.

    For private hire sessions, swimwear is also required.

    We recommend loose, comfortable clothing for before and after your sauna.

  • We recommend sauna rounds of 5–12 minutes, followed by time outside to cool down.

    The maximum time in one round is 20 minutes.

    There is no timer inside — guests are encouraged to listen to their bodies and step out when ready.

  • Most guests follow this rhythm: Heat → Cool → Rest → Repeat

    Spend time in the sauna, cool down outdoors or with the cold shower, rest by the fire pit, then return when ready. There is no pressure to follow a strict routine — guests move at their own pace.

  • Yes — our Finnish-style sauna runs at traditional high temperatures.

    Pouring small amounts of water onto the stones increases humidity and intensifies the heat. Guidance is provided on safe water pouring.

  • Yes — many guests enjoy the contrast of hot and cold.

    Use of the cold shower and bucket is optional and entirely at the guest’s own risk. Care should always be taken when moving between heat and cold.

  • If a guest is pregnant, has a heart condition, blood pressure concerns, is taking prescription medication, or has any underlying health conditions, we strongly recommend consulting a GP before booking.

  • No. Alcohol, smoking and nudity are not permitted anywhere on the site.

  • Children aged 7–16 are welcome during private hire sessions only (full sauna booking required).

    An adult family member or guardian must supervise at all times.

  • We sauna in all seasons — sauna in the rain can be magical.

    Only in extreme weather conditions (such as high winds that pose a safety risk) would we close. In those cases, refunds are issued within 24 hours.

  • We are located just off the South Downs Way in a private woodland garden in East Sussex.

    It’s approximately a 5-minute walk from on-street parking and public transport links.

    Full directions are sent after booking.

  • There is on-street parking nearby. Full details are sent after booking.

    • Finnish-style sauna

    • Cold shower and bucket shower

    • Compost toilet

    • Small changing area

    • Woodland seating

    • Fire pit area

    The site is natural woodland terrain with woodchip paths and some uneven ground.

  • Some areas include uneven ground and a short incline walk to the site, as well as a step up into the sauna and changing space.

    Guests are encouraged to contact us in advance with specific accessibility requirements so we can support where possible.

  • Carers or companions are welcome free of charge.

    Guests are asked to contact us in advance via the contact page so arrangements can be made.

  • Yes — the sauna and woodland space are available for private hire, celebrations, retreats and wellness events.

    Please contact hello@southdownssaunalewes.com for more information on private hire.

  • If you’d like to discuss options for arranging a photo shoot, a team meeting, or any other business, you can contact us via hello@southdownssaunalewes.com