A popular addition to the sports, leisure and wellbeing opportunities offered by the Ardagh Community Trust (ACT)is here to stay.
The Ardagh Community Sauna, which opened in December 2024, was originally planned as a short-term attraction but has been so well used it is set to remain.
Residents say the 16-person, wood-fired facility is a welcoming space for wellness, mindfulness and deep relaxation, all within the heart of Horfield Common.
Part of the nationwide movement of community saunas, it is supported by the Community Sauna Network, which has helped with consulting on how to start a community sauna, with a focus on affordability and accessibility.
Jon Savage, who runs the sauna enterprise, says, “We are really enjoying running the sauna and wellness area at the Ardagh – the customers have really received it well and it has become such a nice place to be. I love working there as people arrive happy that they are about to have a sauna and leave even happier once they have had a sauna!
“We are growing our opening hours, so take a look on the website for when to come down. We are now also offering a 25 per cent discount for NHS staff.”
Prices start at £15 for a one-hour session. Bundles and private hire for groups are also available. Bookings can be made via the website: ardaghcommunitysauna.org, or by emailing: info@ardaghcommunitysauna.org for private hire enquiries.
The sauna is also planning to host silent, women-only and guided sessions, and welcomes suggestions for tailored sessions from other fitness, community or social groups.