The Art of Open Air: Why Outdoor Saunas enhance London Living
Georgia from Skuna Sauna explores the whole host of benefits…
In a city that moves as fast as London, finding a moment of true stillness can feel like a challenge. The natural option can be to seek refuge indoors, tucked away from the elements, especially on darker, more gloomy winter days - right?!
As someone who can be prone to the winter blues, (and loves a duvet day, let’s be honest), it’s hard to look at the rain outside and think “yes, I want to go out in that non-stop drizzle” but what if the secret to feeling your best isn't hiding from the London weather, but leaning into it?
I set out to explore this further, digging deeper into a Nordic tradition, plus science backed research as to why the outdoor sauna lifestyle - no matter the forecast - is an ultimate wellbeing hack in London. A tried and tested ‘pick-me-up’ to escape hibernation mode, the Scandinavians seem to have it down, so why can’t we?
Discover the reasons why Londoners should visit Outdoor Saunas:
Two sauna visitors, outside at Skuna Sauna, Canary Wharf.
1. For the Spirit of Friluftsliv
The Norwegians have a beautiful word I remember reading about in a travel magazine: Friluftsliv (pronounced free-loofts-live). It literally translates to "open-air living."
In Norway, there is a deeply ingrained tradition of embracing the outdoors every single day, regardless of whether it’s blue skies or a classic London downpour. The philosophy is simple: nature isn't something you just look at through a window; it’s something you participate in.
Could this be why Norway is one of the happiest countries in the world? They don’t let a damp day dampen their mood - unlike us Brits who love to moan even when the sun’s out. If we try to embrace a bit more Friluftsliv, we might find that bundling up in a coat and padding down to the sauna is just the winter soul-fuel we need - and that’s before even stepping into the heat.
By choosing an exterior sauna experience, you’re practicing a slice of this Nordic wisdom. It’s about disconnecting from any digital noise and reconnecting with the ripples of the water, the feel of the air, the dance of fire and the strength of wood from the earth. All the elements, in one place. And for a full sensory journey, Skuna’s sauna events such as Aufguss or Friday Fire, offer extra immersion. Bringing nature’s best bits to the city - in a social setting.
The woodfire and water bucket on a rainy afternoon - Skuna Sauna’s cabin.
2. For the "Cosiest Feeling in the World"
There is a specific kind of magic that happens in a wood-fired sauna when the weather turns. I’ve seen it for myself on the Winter Solstice, when dusk settled and the sky opened up. Wrapped in 80°C heat, the scent of eucalyptus in the air, raindrops racing down the full length windows - it set the scene for a meditative cocoon.
Even if the wind whips across Canary Wharf, the sauna boat is a floating sanctuary. Trying a sauna outside allows you to appreciate the elements, rather than be at their mercy. Looking out at the Quay whilst steaming - even in the wind and rain - it’s quite possibly the cosiest feeling in the world…
A visitor trying a 3 degrees celsius bath - on Skuna Sauna’s top deck.
3. For a Happy Hormone Hit
If you want to feel truly alive, the top deck is where the magic happens. After you’ve built up a sweat, stepping up and out for a cold plunge on our Skuna Sauna rooftop deck provides a rush like no other. Going back to Friluftsliv, this is where you can meet the elements head on - and accomplish a dip worth being proud of.
Did you know? The transition from extreme heat to cold water can increase your dopamine levels. It’s a natural boost that leaves your skin tingling and your mind incredibly sharp.
Top Tip: Perfect for those days where you might be reaching for caffeine or sugar, try a cold plunge instead and then see if your cravings subside!
3. For the Digital Disconnect
In today’s world, it can be hard to avoid the alerts and pings of our phone; even when on silent mode - I can find myself reaching to check notifications - when there’s no real sense of urgency. But being at the sauna it forces you to put your phone away and focus on your breathing. You can bring your phone in the sauna but it’s advised not to, as it can overheat. So popping it away in your bag or a locker lets you switch off and steam, completely.
I’ve had the pleasure at Skuna Sauna to work with the team on compiling ambient playlists that help visitors unwind and be in the moment as tranquil beats flow throughout the sauna boat. A sensory music journey to bring you to the present moment - combined with the scent of essential oils and the sizzle of water on stones - the flow is bound to make Whatsapp group chats feel like a distant memory.
About Skuna Sauna: A unique sauna setup, Skuna Sauna is a docked sauna boat on London’s docklands, at West India Quay, Canary Wharf. Where the ritual of a woodfired traditional sauna cabin (on the lower deck) followed by the brisk breeze of the Docklands (on the top deck - with ice baths) is available for shared or private use. A sanctuary in the city, and a spot to embrace wellness and weather in all forms - because cosiness (and happiness) awaits on board. Plan your visit.
About the Author: Georgia looks after Skuna Sauna’s branding; from the guest journey to social media content, as Brand Manager she is passionate about bringing wellness to the water and sharing sauna insights with the local London community. She loves pilates, travelling to European cities and relaxing with a good book. On her current reading list: Blue Mind: How Water Makes You Happier, More Connected and Better at What You Do.
FAQs: Your Guide to a Sauna Outside in London
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer looking for a sauna experience outside in the city, we’ve got the answers to your most common questions.
Where can I find a unique outdoor sauna in East London? Skuna Sauna is located in the heart of East London at West India Quay (Canary Wharf). We offer the UK’s first sauna boat experience, combining traditional wood-fired heat with stunning urban water views.
Are there exterior sauna options near Central London? Absolutely. We are just a short hop from Central London via the Elizabeth Line, Jubilee Line, or the DLR. You can be at our quayside sanctuary in under 15 minutes from Liverpool Street or Stratford.
What should I wear for a sauna outside on a boat? We recommend standard swimwear. Since you’ll be moving between the indoor cabin and the outdoor plunge baths, bringing a pair of flip-flops and a warm robe is a great way to stay comfortable between rounds. Plan your visit here.
Is it worth going if it’s raining? Yes! The contrast between the cold rain on the deck and the deep, dry heat of the wood-fired stove makes the experience even more atmospheric.
Ready to find your flow on the water? Book your Skuna Sauna session and experience the power of the open air for yourself.
