Set beside a still woodland pond at historic Gibson Mill, this wood-fired sauna offers a deeply immersive outdoor experience in the heart of Hardcastle Crags. Surrounded by ancient trees and birdsong, the sauna sits quietly within the landscape, creating space to slow down and reconnect with nature. The walk to the sauna is part of the ritual — a gentle transition from daily life into warmth, stillness, and calm. Sessions are typically communal and relaxed, welcoming both regular sauna-goers and first-timers alike. For those seeking a more personal experience, it’s also possible to book the whole sauna for a private retreat — ideal for small groups, celebrations, or quiet time together. After heating, guests can cool off naturally outdoors before resting by the water’s edge. This off-grid sauna is ideal for those looking to unwind, reset, and experience sauna in one of West Yorkshire’s most beautiful natural settings. 🧣 What to Bring •Sturdy footwear suitable for woodland paths • Two towels (one to sit on in the sauna, one to dry off afterwards) • Flip flops, sliders or crocs • Water bottle • Wet bag • Warm clothes for after your session Changing space is limited — robes are recommended if you have them. Toilets are available on site and the café sells hot and cold drinks and light food (seasonal opening hours). 📍 Getting There The sauna is located at Gibson Mill, Hardcastle Crags and is accessed on foot from nearby car parks. There are two main parking options: • Midgehole Car Park — approximately a 30–45 minute walk along the main path • Clough Hole Car Park — around a 15 minute walk, but steeper Both routes are scenic woodland paths. Please allow time for the walk when planning your visit. Parking is pay-and-display (National Trust members park free). Disabled badge holders may park at Gibson Mill — please contact the host in advance if you require accessible parking. 🕒 Session Times & Booking Sauna sessions run at the following fixed times: 10:30, 11:35, 12:40 and 13:45. When booking on SwimNest, please select the following times from the drop-down menu to match the session schedule: • Book 11:30 for the 11:35 session • Book 12:45 for the 12:40 session Please only book these listed times so your booking aligns correctly with the scheduled communal sessions.

House rules

To keep sessions safe, comfortable and enjoyable for everyone, please follow these house rules: • Please shower before using the sauna • Remove shoes before entering the sauna (flip flops or sliders can be worn inside if you prefer) • Bring water, one towel to sit on in the sauna, and another for drying off afterwards •Jewellery or metal items must be removed before entering the sauna to prevent burns • Enter and exit the sauna carefully • Follow any guidance given by the host during your session The following are not permitted in the sauna: • Alcohol, smoking or vaping • Food of any kind •Hair products, body oils, lotions or creams •Essential oils unless agreed with the host in advance • Nudity is permitted only during privately hired sessions and should be agreed within your group beforehand.

Usage Guidelines

This sauna is wood-fired and can reach very high temperatures. Please use it mindfully and with respect. •Do not touch the stove, chimney or flue at any time • The top bench is the hottest; lower benches are cooler — rotate seats as needed •Take breaks whenever you like and cool down outside between rounds •Cold immersion or cooling outdoors is optional — listen to your body •Regular sauna users build heat tolerance gradually; there is no pressure to stay longer than feels comfortable • If you feel unwell, dizzy or overheated, leave the sauna immediately and inform the host