Amongst the busy bustle that consumes London, finding moments of tranquility can feel like a rare luxury. However, there’s a new trend which is actually an ancient practice turned modern wellness essential; enter the sauna. Saunas offer more than just a relaxing escape; they provide a host of physical and mental benefits. Regular sauna use can help detoxify the body by promoting sweating, improving circulation, relieving muscle tension, and even boosting cardiovascular health.
Saunas have surged in popularity over the past few years, driven by a global focus on health and mindfulness. A 2023 report from Global Wellness Institute found that the sauna and spa industry grew by 12% annually from 2020 to 2022, reflecting a marked shift in consumer priorities. The COVID-19 pandemic played a pivotal role, as people sought holistic ways to boost immunity and reduce stress. Google Trends highlights that searches for “sauna benefits” tripled during lockdowns, underscoring a growing awareness of their therapeutic potential. With saunas offering everything from detoxification to cardiovascular health improvements, their renaissance signals a cultural embrace of self-care as a necessity, not just a luxury. Beyond the physiological perks, the meditative environment of a sauna is a balm for the mind, offering a respite from the demands of modern life. With such compelling benefits, it’s no wonder that saunas have become a staple in London’s wellness scene. Here are five of the city’s finest saunas, each offering a unique experience to soothe body and soul.
Banya No. 1
Location: Hoxton and Chiswick
For an authentic Russian banya experience, Banya No. 1 is the perfect spot to embrace traditional wellness, which blends robust heat with unique treatments that set it apart from your average sauna. The star attraction here is the venik massage – a ritual that involves being lightly whipped with fragrant birch, oak, or eucalyptus branches. The practice is said to boost circulation and exfoliate the skin, leaving you feeling refreshed and invigorated.
The banya’s wooden interior, infused with the aroma of fresh herbs, creates an immersive and therapeutic atmosphere. Your session can be followed up with a plunge into an icy cold pool for a true Russian-style detox. With two locations, in Hoxton and Chiswick, Banya No. 1 is sure to deliver, for those seeking a blend of tradition and rejuvenation.
AIRE Ancient Baths
Location: Covent Garden
AIRE Ancient Baths transports visitors back in time, nestled in the heart of Covent Garden, this spa is inspired by the bathing traditions of ancient Rome, Greece, and the Ottoman Empire. The sauna experience here is part of a larger journey through thermal baths, each set at different temperatures to create a contrast therapy that soothes the senses.
The beautifully designed space, lit by flickering candles and accented with exposed brick and stone, exudes tranquility. The sauna’s moderate heat is perfect for unwinding, while the accompanying baths offer everything from warm saltwater pools to invigorating ice plunges. Their signature treatments, like the wine bath or full-body massages, can be added to your session for a truly indulgent escape.
KX Spa
Location: Chelsea
For exclusivity, KX Spa in Chelsea is the pinnacle of high-end wellness. This members-only club features a state-of-the-art sauna as part of its extensive spa facilities, with sleek, modern design and meticulous attention to detail for a guaranteed premium experience.
The sauna’s high temperatures are ideal for muscle recovery and stress relief, making it a favorite among the fitness-focused clientele. Other treatments complement these sauna sessions including hydrotherapy and spa treatments.
South Kensington Club
Location: South Kensington
The South Kensington Club (SKC) combines heritage with contemporary wellness in one of London’s most picturesque neighbourhoods. The club’s bathhouse-inspired spa features a traditional banya and a Turkish hammam, complemented by a range of heat-based therapies.
The sauna here is characterised by its wood-panelled interiors and perfectly calibrated heat levels, creating an environment conducive to deep relaxation. SKC’s commitment to holistic wellness is evident in its additional offerings, including yoga, pilates, and nutrition consultations. The club’s tranquil atmosphere and attentive service make it an oasis for Londoners seeking balance and restoration.
Glow Bar
Location: Fitzrovia
Glow Bar in Fitzrovia redefines the sauna experience with its focus on women’s wellness and infrared technology. Unlike traditional saunas, Glow Bar’s infrared saunas use light to heat the body directly, resulting in a milder but deeply penetrating warmth. This innovative approach is believed to aid in detoxification, improve skin health, and enhance mood. Each sauna pod is housed in a private cabin, allowing for a more personalised and intimate experience. With its chic interiors and forward-thinking approach, Glow Bar is a favourite among London’s wellness enthusiasts.
London is a city that seemingly never stops moving and is a place where finding spaces to unwind is essential. From the timeless rituals of a Russian banya to the soothing charm of ancient baths and the innovative benefits of infrared saunas, London has a sauna experience to help you sweat out the stresses of big city life and reap the rewards of high-heat exposure. These five destinations offer a space to unwind, recharge, and reconnect with yourself in a truly restorative way. January is a time for embracing wellness and new traditions and with the abundance of benefits, both physical and psychological, on offer from saunas, there is no better wellness practice to subscribe to.
