FIRST SAUNA VISIT?
Whether you are new to sauna or just want a refresher ahead of your visit to The Lions' Den, this page has everything you need. Here you will find what to bring, what to expect and how to settle in so you can enjoy your session from the moment you arrive.
Our spaces are warm, welcoming and naturally social. Come as you are. Some people enjoy chatting and connecting, others prefer the quiet. Both fit. Kindness sets the tone at The Lions’ Den, and our community is at the heart of it all.
When you sauna, listening to your body is always the best guide.
WHAT TO BRING
Swimwear
All guests must wear swimwear during their sauna session.
Towel(s)
You must bring at least one towel to sit on in the sauna. A second dry towel is useful for afterwards.
Forgot yours? We have towels to rent on-site.
Footwear
Flip flops, sliders or crocs make it easy to move between the sauna and cold water areas.
Water bottle
We have water and cups on-site, but you may prefer to bring your own refillable bottle.
MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SAUNA SESSION
Arrive 5 minutes early. Start as you mean to go on, without rushing. Our Sauna Host will welcome you in when the session begins.
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Remove jewellery/hair clips. Leave anything that could get hot outside of the sauna.
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Be considerate of your fellow sauna go-ers. Socialising is more than welcome, but please be mindful of topic and volume when having private conversations in the sauna.
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Alternate heat and cold. Cool off in our ice baths between sauna rounds to boost circulation and recovery.
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Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your session.​
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Listen to your body. Step out, cool down, or rest whenever you need to.​
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End slowly. Allow a few minutes to enjoy the post-sauna calm before heading off you can.​
Make the most of your visit. Our café is open for hot drinks, delicious food and alcohol-free drinks if you want to stay a little longer and ease back into your day.
OUR SAUNAS
SAUNAS AT THE LIONS' DEN RIVER
​The Lions' Den River has two wood fired barrel saunas. On arrival, your Sauna Host will guide you to the sauna and you will typically stay in the sauna you start in for the rest of your session.
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SAUNAS AT THE LIONS' DEN CITY
The Lions’ Den City has three saunas, a large community indoor sauna and two rooftop saunas, so there is always room to settle in and you may rotate between the saunas during your session.
On occasion one or two may be used for events or private hire, but there will always be a sauna for you to unwind in.
GETTING HERE AND PARKING
The Lions' Den River
Find us at The Red Lion Bishopsgate
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Important
The pub car park is not available for sauna sessions. If you are parked incorrectly, we may need to ask you to move your car.
If you are visiting the pub or The Lions’ Den cabin afterwards, you can move your car there once your session has finished.
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Closest paid parking
• St Helen’s Wharf (5 minutes)
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Free parking
Weeknights after 6 pm and Sundays on Bishopbridge Road or Gas Hill (please check signs).
GETTING HERE AND PARKING
The Lions' Den City
Find us at 17a White Lion Street, NR2 1PX, up the stairs to the right of Knoops.
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Closest paid parking
• Castle Quarter (2 minutes)
• John Lewis (5 minutes)
• Rouen Road (7 minutes)
Free parking
Weeknights after 6.30 pm and Sundays on Ber Street or Rouen Road
(please check signs).
QUESTIONS BEFORE YOU VISIT?
Visit our FAQs for more information.
If you still have questions, send us an email and we'll be happy to help.
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We look forward to seeing you at The Lions' Den soon!