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Welcome to
The Lions' Den

Norwich’s Riverside Wellness & Social Space

Tucked away on the banks of the River Wensum, The Lions Den is Norwich’s go-to destination for outdoor wellness, community, and connection. Whether you're here to unwind solo, meet friends, or try something new, our riverside sanctuary offers the perfect space to relax, reset, and recharge.

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Download our App

For the quickest way to book, view, and manage your sessions, download our app today!

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Our Sauna Garden

Enjoy the ultimate riverside wellness experience with our two wood-fired saunas, each offering stunning views of the River Wensum and surrounding nature. Your session includes full access to our Sauna Garden, complete with changing rooms, lockers, five cold plunges, and a refreshing cold shower — everything you need to unwind, reset, and reconnect.

Save Money with a membership

Scientific research suggests that spending at least 50 minutes per week in a sauna, ideally spread over multiple sessions, can lead to improvements in cardiovascular health, reduced inflammation, enhanced recovery, and lowered stress levels. When combined with around 11 minutes of cold water immersion per week, the benefits extend further, supporting immune function, reducing muscle soreness, improving mood, and even potentially increasing lifespan.

These practices are becoming widely recognised as powerful tools for boosting both physical and mental wellbeing, helping people not only feel better day to day but also invest in their long-term health.

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Private Sauna Hire

Planning a social gathering, birthday, community event, or just craving some peaceful time to yourself?

 

Our saunas are the perfect setting. You can book and pay in full, or we can provide a payment link to share with your guests.

Our saunas can accommodate up to 32 people per hour, making them ideal for larger groups.

Interested?

 

Fill out the enquiry form below and Natasha will be in touch to help you plan your session.

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Why Sauna?

Saunas offer powerful benefits for both body and mind. They improve circulation, ease muscle tension, support detoxification through sweating, and promote relaxation. Regular sauna use can reduce stress, aid recovery after exercise, and improve sleep. It’s a simple, natural way to boost overall wellbeing and reconnect with yourself.

Making the most of summer

We’re excited to launch Yoga on the Terrace.

 

Join us every Tuesday and Wednesday morning for a refreshing yoga class, followed by the option to enjoy our Off-Peak Sauna session — the perfect way to start your day feeling balanced and restored.

 

Explore the different class options by visiting our website or downloading our app

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Paddle Board and Canoe 

Norfolk Paddle Boards offers a fun, safe, and scenic way to explore the waterways of Norwich and beyond. With hire options for all abilities, guided sessions, and community events, it’s the perfect way to connect with nature, stay active, and enjoy the peace and beauty of the Norfolk landscape.

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Learn to Paddle Board with Norfolk Paddle Boards.

Looking to give this awesome up and coming sport a go. Book a lesson with one of our accredited instructors today. They will teach you the basics of SUP and all the safety you will need to know in order to go on your own paddle adventures. 

Don’t have kit? No worries, we have it all covered. The price of the lesson includes all you will need. 

Each session lasts approximately 2.5 hours.  A little intro and safety briefing on land and then we embark on our paddle.

 

Taking it nice and slow to give you plenty of opportunity to get to know your board. Guiding through stopping and turning to standing and going on a little journey. 

Group Paddle Boarding

We offer group paddleboarding sessions that are perfect for birthdays, hen and stag parties, work socials, or just a group of friends getting together.

 

You can paddle, enjoy the sauna, and we can even connect you with The Red Lion Bishopgate for some delicious food afterward.

If your group has six or more people, get in touch with Natasha by completing the form below, and we’ll help you get booked in.

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Paddle Board and Canoe Hire

Discover the waterways with our flexible paddle board and canoe hire options, available for 1 or 2-hour sessions.

Paddle boards are designed for individuals, but for safety reasons, we do not allow anyone to go out on their own. There must be at least one person aged 18 or over in your booking who will also be on the water. Canoes can accommodate up to 3 people, making them perfect for friends or family to enjoy together.

We ask everyone to book individually so we can ensure we look after everyone on the booking properly. If you have people under the age of 18, please book them under your name.

Paddling through Norwich is wonderful — peaceful, picturesque, and a fantastic way to explore the city from a fresh perspective.

Our Community

The Lions’ Den is Norwich’s go-to destination for outdoor wellness, community, and connection. Whether you’re here to unwind solo, meet friends, or try something new, our riverside sanctuary offers the perfect space to relax, reset, and recharge. We’re proud to host a range of wonderful initiatives that bring the community together, giving everyone the chance to get out in nature and connect with others.

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Social Mondays
The Perfect Way to Start Your Week​

Social Mondays – Kick off your week with our relaxed and friendly Social Mondays. During the summer, you can join our group paddle from 6:30pm—bring your own board or hire one of ours.

 

We also offer discounted sauna sessions to help you unwind.​Our cabin serves up delicious toasties and fries for supper, along with all your favourite signature drinks.​

Paddleboarding from just £2.50

Sauna sessions from £5​

​​Whether you're coming solo or with a friend, it's the perfect way to ease into the week. The atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and totally laid-back.

 

OutThere

We’re excited to introduce The OutThere Group — a new monthly wellbeing event hosted by The Lions' Den.

This initiative is completely free and open to everyone, offering a chance to prioritise your mental health, connect with others, and enjoy the benefits of being active in nature.

We organise our events through the MeetUp app, so if you’d like to join us, simply click the link below to book your spot.

Our Events are held on the 3rd Sunday of every month starting at 10am

Run, Walk, Paddle Board or Cycle -  choose your activity and come connect with your city and Nature

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AquaPaddle

AquaPaddle is our timed 5km social paddle run by volunteers for all paddling abilities on different craft and waterways across the country. Meeting on ideally, Sunday mornings of the location’s choice, the timed social paddle provides an opportunity for those who want to improve their fitness and wellbeing, meet other like-minded paddlers and have fun!

If you don’t have a board, you can hire one for just £5.

Please note, if you are hiring a board, you must also register for the event on the AquaPaddle website.

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Gift Vouchers

Click below to purchase a voucher. Please note, you’ll need to create an account with us before completing your purchase.

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  • Do you have to be a good swimmer, what happens If I fall into the River?
    You don't have to be an olympic swimmer, or be able to swim, but we do ask that you'd be comfortable if you did take a dip. You'll be fitted with a buoyancy aid before setting out, and you'll be attached to what is effectively a giant float by your safety leash. We will also go through a safety demonstration of how to get back on your board.
  • Can you Paddle Board in the Rain
    Yes, and a paddle in the rain can be as gorgeous as a paddle in the sunshiine! We will only reschedule a session in the events of high winds, thunderstorms or met office weather warnings and will do our best to give as much notice as possible.
  • What should I wear Paddle Boarding
    Synthetic Layers are the best. Some sports leggings, skins - loose clothing and layers. Try to avoid jeans and cotton which may be very uncomfortable if they get wet! Hot sunny days, swimming attire - We can give you dry bags if you need to take some extra layers with you on board. We would also highly recommend bringing a change of clothes and a towel for after your paddle, just in case you fall in- these can be left with us on site.
  • What do I wear on my feet to Paddle Board
    If it is warm enough, bare foot is best. If you would like to wear shoes we recommend wearing wet. shoes or old trainers, just make sure you have dry footwear to wear after your paddle! - SealSkinz are an amazing waterproof sock which are also great!
  • Is there a weight Limit for Paddle Boarding
    The majority of our boards are a max rider weight of 120kgs. If you weigh over this please contact us before booking, we have a few boards that can take over this weight, so we can make sure we have the right kit available for you.
  • Do I have to wear a Buoyancy Aid?
    Yes, and you will be provided with one as standard when you book a lesson or hire a board from us. We have a selection for everybody! Of course if you have your own, you are more than welcome to wear this on your session if you'd feel more comfortable in doing so.
  • Can I take my dog on. a paddle board?
    Yes, you're absolutely welcome to bring your dog on a paddle board, as long as they're comfortable around water and calm around wildlife. If your dog tends to get anxious near water or likes to chase ducks and other animals, it might not be the best environment for them, as there's plenty of both around. Their safety and comfort always come first
  • What should I bring with me to Paddle Board
    Bring a change of clothes and a towel in case you do get wet. If it is nice and sunny please bring along water and suncream. If wearing a hat or sunglasses please note these will not float if you go in, but if you are not overly attached then bring them along as the water reflects UV rays and you may catch the sun quicker. For chillier days and evenings please bring layers - small packaway windproof waterproof macs are great as are thin fleeces - we have drybags for you to take out additional layers if you are prone to feeling the cold. You may also want to bring along some insect repellent, especially if your paddle is later in the day or in the evening. We have limited waterproof phone cases available for use so if you have your own feel free to bring that along too! Finally if you have any medical items such as inhalers or epi pens, please have these with you.
  • Do many people fall in Paddle Boarding?
    It can happen, some sessions no one goes in, other sessions every one does! We try to keep people dry as best as we can. we usually say 1 in 12 :) We also run sessions where we purposely go in the water, these are great confidence builders!
  • Do you offer a bluelight discount
    Yes, we do! Please complete this form and upload a valid Blue Light Card. Once verified, we’ll send you your discount code. Blue Light Discount Code Terms: This code is issued exclusively to the registered Blue Light Card holder and is valid for one year from the date of issue. To renew the code after expiry, you will need to resubmit a valid Blue Light Card. The code must not be shared or used by anyone other than the registered holder. Any misuse, including sharing the code with others, will result in immediate revocation. This discount is valid across all our mixed sessions, events, and memberships, and applies specifically to both Sauna and Paddle Boarding activities.
  • What happens if the weather is bad?
    Our Sauna Garden is open in all weather — rain or shine — so you can enjoy the experience year-round. The only time we may need to limit access is during thunder and lightning for safety reasons. In these conditions, we do not allow use of the cold plunge tanks, as they are made of metal. Your safety is our priority, and we’ll always keep you informed if any weather-related changes affect your session.
  • Whats your cancellation Policy
    Booking & Cancellation Policy General Bookings: Customers may cancel or amend their bookings up to 48 hours before the scheduled session and will automatically receive a full refund to their original payment method. Cancellations made less than 48 hours before the session are non-refundable.
  • Where is The Lions Den located?
    You’ll find us just behind The Red Lion Bishopgate in Norwich. Head to the rear car park, where you’ll see our stretch tent, outdoor café, and welcoming Sauna Garden.
  • Is The Lions Den dog-friendly?
    Yes, absolutely! We're very dog-friendly. Our resident pups, Torvi and Hudson, are often around to say hello. We also provide dog mats, treats, and water—plus plenty of love and cuddles from the team!
  • Is there parking available nearby?
    We are unable to offer parking, as the limited spaces available are reserved for Red Lion Bishopgate patrons. Please use nearby pay-and-display parking at St Helens Wharf or local on-street parking—just be sure to check for any parking restrictions.
  • Can I change or cancel my booking after it's made?
    Yes, you can! The easiest way to make changes is through our app. Please note, we have a strict 48-hour amendment and cancellation policy, so be sure to make any changes before then. To reschedule, simply cancel your existing booking in the app — the credits will be returned to your account, allowing you to rebook at your preferred time.
  • Do I need to book in advance or can I drop in?
    You're always welcome to drop in and relax in the Cabin and Den, but we highly recommend booking your sauna session in advance, as we do get very busy
  • What are your opening hours?
    Opening Hours The Cabin/Den Monday to Saturday: 8:00am – 10:00pm Sunday: 8:00am – 9:00pm The Sauna Garden Monday: 5:00pm – 9:45pm Tuesday to Thursday:  Morning: 7:00am – 10:30am  Evening: 3:45pm – 9:45pm Friday & Saturday: 7:00am – 9:45pm Sunday: 7:00am – 8:45pm
  • Can I use the cold plunges?
    If you've purchased a sauna ticket, access to our cold plunges is included. You're welcome to alternate between the sauna and cold plunge throughout your session.
  • Will I get a confirmation email for my booking?
    Yes, you will receive a confirmation email. However, if you've booked for a guest and entered their email address, the booking will appear on their account, and they will receive the confirmation email instead.
  • What do I need to wear?
    All guests must wear swimwear during their session. We also ask that you sit on a towel — this helps protect the wood, keeps the saunas clean, and shields your skin from the heat. We recommend bringing a spare towel to dry off after your session.
  • How old do you have to be to used the Sauna?
    Age Restrictions Children aged 13 to 16 may use the sauna during private sessions only (full sauna must be booked), with a responsible adult present at all times. Children under 13 are not permitted to use the sauna.
  • Can I book for a group or private hire?
    Our saunas provide the perfect setting for everything from social gatherings to relaxed get-togethers. You can either book and pay in full or request a payment link to share with your guests. Each sauna can comfortably accommodate up to 8 people, with a total capacity of 32 people per hour—ideal for larger groups. For mixed public sessions, we limit the Sauna Garden to 12 guests, averaging around 6 people per sauna for comfort. If you're booking privately, you can choose to have up to 8 guests per sauna. Want to bring 16 people? Book both saunas. For groups larger than 16, you can either book an additional hour or split your group into two 30-minute sessions. Fill out the enquiry form, and one of the team will be in touch to help plan your ideal experience.
  • How do I book a Sauna session?
    All our bookings are managed online. You will need to first create and account before you can book your session. We kindly ask that each participant books individually, as everyone is required to complete our 'Getting to Know You' form. This helps us ensure a safe, personalised, and high-quality experience for all. If you're booking for a friend, please see other FAQ for this.
  • What do Sauna Hats do?
    Sauna hats, traditionally made of wool, felt, or straw, protect your head from overheating in a sauna by providing insulation and trapping cooler air around your head.This allows you to stay in the sauna longer and experience the full benefits without feeling uncomfortably hot.They also protect your hair and scalp from becoming too dry and brittle due to the intense heat.
  • How cold are your cold plunges?
    We have five cold plunge tanks available: Two are chilled to 5°C Two are set at 10°C One is ambient, matching the surrounding air temperature
  • Do I get access to the cold plunges?
    If you've booked a sauna session with us, cold plunges are included. You're welcome to alternate between the sauna and cold plunge throughout your session.
  • How do I sign in to my account?
    Follow this link Or The My Dashboard link on your first booking confirmation email. Or The sign into your account button on the booking page OR Sign in through our App
  • How do I book more than one person on?
    We ask each guest to register individually — just like you would at a gym — so we can collect the necessary information in advance. Since our services can impact health and wellbeing, it's important for us to ensure everyone is safe, supported, and gets the best possible experience. Individual registration also allows us to tailor the session more personally and ensures a smooth check-in on arrival. If you'd like to bring a guest and cover their booking, you can easily add them through our app. Just head to your app store and search "The Lions Den" to download it. Step One – Choose your preferred session, towards the bottom you will see My Guests. Select the add guest button (Before booking, please check the available spaces to ensure there’s enough room for your guests.) Step Two – Add your guests’ details. An email address isn’t mandatory, but it helps us check if they’ve already completed our "Getting to Know You" form — so if you know it, please include it. You can repeat this step up to five times, allowing you to book for yourself and up to five guests. Want to bring more? We’d be happy to arrange a private sauna session and offer a group discount — just get in touch! Step Three – Make your payment. Select the number of passes based on how many guests you've added. Please ensure the number of passes matches the number of people you're booking for (including yourself). If the numbers don’t match, your guests won’t be booked onto the session — so double-check before you complete your purchase. Set 4 – Confirmation Please note that you will only see confirmation for your own booking. Any guest bookings will appear under their individual accounts. You can view your session by heading to ‘My Bookings’ in your app. From there, you can make changes or cancel if needed. For more help, see: How do I amend my booking?
  • How do I create an account
    Head to our booking provider Bsport to create an account
  • How do I reset my password?
    If you've forgotten your password, you can request a reset from the sign-in page. A reset link will be sent to your registered email address—be sure to check your spam or junk folder just in case. Still having trouble? Feel free to email us at hello@thelionsdennorwich.com.
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What's happening down at the Den

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Get in Touch

The Lions' Den

79 Bishopgate

Norwich

NR1 4AA

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