The Sauna

Experience the healing power of wood-fired sauna therapy in our unique off-grid forest sauna. The perfect way to relax and reconnect with nature in a truly tranquil setting.

Designed by Built Works for Architects Holiday. Check availability and make your booking below.

The Sauna Experience.

Take a break from the everyday and let the peaceful forest environment and cozy warmth of the wood burning stove relax and rejuvenate you.

(We book slots so that you get the sauna all to your self for your allotted time with no awkward interruptions)

Sauna Guidelines.

Please read the guidelines before using the sauna. They provide useful information on access, use and safety to make your experience as enjoyable as it can be.

You’ll find the sauna hidden away right down in our woods in a secluded spot by the stream. In simple terms down the hill and towards the trees.
The guide book inside your cabin has a handy map to show you where it is relative to your cabin but we have added some handy signage for you to follow to get you there. Map can also be found here.
It will only take about 3-4 minutes to walk from Hill Cabin and 1-2 minutes from Cabin X.
Your reservation lasts for 2 hours but we advise that you break your booked time period into 15 to 20 minutes at a time inside the sauna. Up to 30 minutes can be acceptable to experienced users.
The length of time your body can tolerate will vary from person to person. If you are sensitive to heat, you should start off with a short duration followed by a spell outside the sauna in the shower to cool off.
The sauna will take time to come up to full temperature, please note that this is included in the 2 hour reservation.
As above remember to take breaks from the heat and refresh outside in the fresh, cooler air, under the cold water shower or in the plunge pool.
Saunas can burn, and too much time in the sauna at a too high temperature can lead to blistering. If your skin starts to sting, you should get out immediately and not renter.
Hydrate whilst using the sauna and drink plenty of water. There is a tap for fresh spring water next to the shower.
Saunas are social experiences so we suggest enjoying the sauna in a pair. It’s always good to have someone on hand if problems do occur.
The sauna will need some time to light and come up to full temperature. Please click here to see our handy guide on how to start and sustain the wood burner.
Only use dry, seasoned wood provided as fuel. Do not use found damp wood, as it may release harmful substances.
When using a traditional wood burning sauna you are in control of the temperature. It can be made hotter by adding logs and somewhat made cooler by opening the door and allowing the wood in the burner to be consumed.
Temperature changes can take time, both up and down, so try to be patient before adding wood or allowing too much heat to escape through the open door.
A thermometer is provided on the wall and to help you reference your preferred temperature. The average sauna temperature is about 85C/185F though it can range anywhere between 60C/140F and 100C/210F.
Please do not use the sauna if you are under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any other substances that impair judgment or coordination.
Do not to go in straight into the sauna after a large meal or strenuous exercise.
Do not stay in the sauna too long or if you start to experience any ill effects such as nausea, headaches or dizziness.
Please leave the sauna in the condition that you found it. Do not add any further logs to the burner and lock the door after you leave.
You should ideally rest for at least 10 minutes afterwards to let your body recuperate and adjust to a normal temperature. Remember to re-hydrate and drink plenty of water. Avoid drinking alcohol until rehydrated and cooled off.
Although rejuvenating, using the sauna presents some level of risk, especially to people who may be, have a history of, or suffering from the following;
- Pregnant
- Heart / respiratory problems
- High blood pressure
- Unwell or have a fever
This list is not extensive and if you have any concerns please consult your doctor before booking a session.
Guests under the age of 18 must be supervised at all times by an adult. Guests under the age of 16 are not permitted to use the sauna.
The sauna should not be used if you have open wounds, skin infections, or any other condition that may be exacerbated by exposure to heat.

About the Architect.

Architect: Built Works

Team: Will Gowland, Harry Kay, Mike Perkins

Built Works is a RIBA chartered architecture and design practice founded in 2020 with a vision to combine cutting edge technology with environmentalism. Operating across multiple sectors and at a range of scales in both urban and rural locations, the practice has offices in London and the Lake District.

Design Concept.

A word from the architect;

“The project is centered around creating a serene and calming atmosphere through references to traditional Japanese design principles. The stunning woodland setting establishes a tranquil and peaceful environment for guests and the design builds directly from this.

Materials.

What’s it made of?

The cladding is composed of several different wood types, with exterior walls finished in larch and the interior a traditional alder. The floor is covered with a traditional slatted board made bespoke to the project. The only element within, except for the wood burner itself, is a monolithic bench made from windfall off an adjacent tree.

The structural frame is also made from timber and utilises a lightweight space frame to support the roof and create facade accents. Along with the timber construction, a combination of sheep’s wool insulation and recycled plastic insulation has been used throughout to keep the environmental footprint as low as possible for the build.