Frequently Asked Questions
We will be open on Christmas Day with a special morning schedule at The Lions' Den River and some free festive treats on us - non alcoholic bucks fizz and mince pies!
Saunas: 9, 9.45, 10.30 and 11.15am (we're running a custom schedule for Christmas Day)
Paddle: 9am start, bring your own board or we have some to hire
Cabin: 8.30am to 12.30pm for delicious beverages and snacks
Join us for a social start to Christmas morning. A little warmth, a little calm and the same community spirit that runs through everything we do.
CHRISTMAS EVE: River & City, cafe open 8am - 10pm, sauna sessions 8.15am to 8.45pm
CHRISTMAS DAY: River 8.30 - 12.30pm, City closed
BOXING DAY: River & City, cafe 9am to 5pm, sauna sessions 9.30am to 3.45pm
27th-30th DECEMBER: River & City, open as normal
NEW YEAR'S EVE: River & City, cafe 8am - 5pm, sauna sessions 8.15am to 3.45pm
NEW YEAR'S DAY: River & City, cafe 9am-9pm, sauna sessions 9.30 to 7.30pm
River sauna bookings now open, news on when you can book The Lions' Den City saunas coming soon!
We have two locations. The Lions' Den River for outdoor saunas and paddle boarding is 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.
Our second location, The Lions' Den City with rooftop saunas, is located on White Lion Street next to Knoops. We will be opening our new second site winter 2025.
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: 8:00am – 11:45am  Evening: 3:45pm – 9:45pm
Friday & Saturday: 7:00am – 9:45pm
Sunday: 7:00am – 8:45pm
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
The Lions' Den River
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.
The Lions' Den City
Our closest carparks are The Forum or The Castle.
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!
Yes, you can! The easiest way to make changes is through our app.
Please note, we have a strict 24-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.
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.
Yes, we do! Please complete the form which you will find on our website. Once verified, we’ll activate the passes on your account.
Blue Light Discount Code Terms:
This passes are issued exclusively to the registered Blue Light Card holder. After one year you will need to re register by resubmitting a valid Blue Light Card.
The passes must not be 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 Sauna and Paddle Boarding activities.
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.
Smoking is not allowed under the tent at our river site. Whilst we are a wellbeing site, if you do need to smoke, we kindly ask this is done away from the tent and other guests.
We currently have two locations in Norwich. The Lions' Den River at Red Lion Bishopgate, and The Lions' Den City on White Lion Street, which will be opening winter 2025.
Our second location will be opening winter 2025. Keep an eye on our socials for our official launch date and new events.


