Could saunas become the ‘new pub’ when it comes to socialising?
Could Saunas Become the ‘New Pub’ for Socialising?
The surge in sauna popularity across the UK has sparked discussions about its potential as a modern social hub. With over 600 public saunas now operating nationwide, including in Wales, the trend is reshaping how people gather. Many of these facilities are situated in scenic spots like coastlines and lakesides, blending relaxation with natural surroundings.
Health Benefits and Expert Caution
While users often cite sauna use for its wellness and mental health perks, the scientific basis is complex. Experts highlight that benefits like stress relief and improved circulation require proper hydration and integration with other healthy habits. The British Sauna Society (BSS) reports a rise from 540 to nearly 640 saunas this year, predicting the UK could surpass other European countries in sauna market size by 2033.
“The ongoing growth suggests the peak of sauna culture may still be ahead,” said Gabrielle Reason, director of the BSS.
Personal Journeys into Sauna Culture
Kathryn Donavan, a 40-year-old from Barry, Vale of Glamorgan, opened Môr A Sawna in June 2024 after grappling with PMDD and endometriosis. Cold water therapy had mitigated her symptoms, but following a uterine surgery, her conditions flared intensely, often leaving her bedridden. “I was in so much pain,” she described, adding that flu-like symptoms followed. This prompted her to seek alternative treatments, leading to the creation of her outdoor sauna. “My health is much more manageable now,” she noted.
William Jenkins, 34, transitioned from a tech career to establish Hikitalo Sauna in Porthcawl after a mental breakdown tied to long work hours. During travels, he visited 70 saunas across 14 countries, observing their calming effects on his mental state. “Saunas are the new pub,” he remarked. “They offer a social space without the aftereffects of alcohol.” Jenkins believes the culture fosters connections without social hierarchies. “There are no titles or statuses in the sauna—just freedom to interact,” he added.
Science and Safety in Sauna Use
Dr. Geoff Combs, a sport and exercise science lecturer at Bangor University, stressed that sauna benefits depend on combining them with other healthy practices. “If someone claims sauna improves their mental health, that’s great—keep doing it,” he said. “But more research is needed to validate these effects.” He also urged caution, advising users to stay hydrated, monitor their bodies, and start with short sessions. “Begin with a few minutes, take breaks, and prepare adequately,” Combs recommended.
Jenkins echoed the idea that Wales’ landscapes—like Finland’s—support sauna culture. “The mix of natural settings and social interaction is unique,” he said. Donavan shared that her sauna’s regular visitors seek both community and respite from isolation. “It’s a way of life, not just a trend,” she explained. “You can unwind, destress, or connect with others.” Both stories reflect a broader shift: saunas as spaces for health, relaxation, and social bonding.
