The Solent Sauna

The Solent Sauna sits on the pebble beach at Marine Parade West, along the Solent Beach Path in Lee-on-the-Solent. This spot overlooks the Solent strait, with views towards the Isle of Wight on clear days.

For locals in Gosport or Fareham, it’s a short drive or cycle along the coastal road; visitors from Portsmouth can take the 9 bus route, alighting near the promenade. Parking is available nearby, though spaces fill up on weekends. The setup includes a barrel-shaped wooden structure on a trailer, heated by a wood stove, with deck chairs outside for cooling off.

Sessions run on Fridays and Saturdays from 7:30am to 3:40pm, starting from September 2025. Choose from the Express 30-minute slot at £8, the Daytime 60-minute at £15, or private Solo 60 for up to six people at £90.

Book online via the website, where slots often book out in advance, especially for groups.

Bring a swimsuit, towel, and water bottle; changing facilities are basic, with public toilets close by. The host, Georgina, guides newcomers through the process, including tips on breathing for cold dips in the sea.

Inside, the sauna reaches temperatures around 80-90°C, with benches for six. Steam comes from water poured over hot stones, creating a humid atmosphere that eases muscles and clears the mind. Many alternate with quick plunges into the Solent’s chilly waters, a practice said to boost circulation and mood.

It’s communal unless booked privately, so expect to share with others, fostering casual conversations among regulars. The site promotes wellbeing through this routine, drawing from Scandinavian traditions adapted to the Hampshire coast.

For first-time visitors, start with the shorter session to gauge tolerance. Residents often make it a weekly habit, combining it with beach walks or coffee at nearby cafes like the Blue Bird. Private hires suit family outings or team-building, with flexibility for events.

The sauna originated from a crowdfunding campaign in 2021, after the founder moved from London to focus on community health initiatives.

Reviews on TripAdvisor give it a perfect 5 out of 5 from 23 ratings, with no negatives noted. Visitors praise the welcoming host, clean facilities, and invigorating experience. One reviewer called it “magical,” highlighting multiple sea dips building confidence.

Another mentioned the boost for the week ahead, while a group enjoyed chilling with friends in hats provided. It’s seen as affordable and ideal for socialising or solo recharge.