What should I expect from TEMZ Floating Saunas?
TEMZ Floating Saunas offers a sauna and ice bath experience whilst floating on the River Thames. The sauna and ice bath are both fixed onto a pontoon which is moored up in the non-tidal section of the river, at The Lensbury, Teddington.
Sessions are available in 50 minute time slots with private hire also available. Changing room and shower facilities are provided.
Booking in advance is essential for customers who are not members at The Lensbury.
FAQs
General
What is a sauna?
A sauna is a small heated room designed to promote sweating, relaxation, and detoxification.
How is a sauna heated?
At TEMZ FS, we use an electric stove to heat our sauna.
What is the ideal sauna temperature?
Typically 70–100°C (158–212°F) for traditional saunas.
How long should I stay in the sauna?
Most people spend 10–20 minutes per session. Beginners should start with shorter times.
How often should I use a sauna?
2–4 times per week is common, though some enthusiasts go daily.
What is the ideal ice bath temperature?
Our ice baths are kept at 8°C. The actual optimal temperature will very between users.
How long should I spend in the ice bath?
As a rule of thumb, it is advised to spend no more than 1 minute per degree in temperature. For example, 4 minutes at 4 degrees. However most people spend 2-3 minutes before returning to the heat of the sauna.
What should I bring to my session?
Swimwear, towel and water are your essentials. In the winter months, please bring plenty of layers for after your session. Despite coming out hot, you will cool down quickly.
Booking
I am not a member of The Lensbury, can I still book?
Yes, you most definitely can. You can book any session marked Open Session on the booking page. You will just need to show confirmation of your booking at Members' Reception when you come for your session.
Who can book into an open session?
Both members and non-members of The Lensbury can book into Open Sessions. They are open to everyone!
Can members book with non-members?
Yes, members and non-members can book a session together, it just needs to be an open session. Only if the non-member has a guest pass for The Lensbury Club, will they will be able book into a members' only session.
How long are the sessions?
Our Sauna sessions are 50 minutes to allow a 10 minute turnaround time between sessions. This allows us to keep the facilities clean for you.
Do I have to book both sauna and ice bath?
Your session will include both sauna and ice bath. It is up to you how you split your time.
How many will be in the sauna at one time?
Our open sessions have a maximum of 8 slots available to book.
Can I have the sauna to myself?
Yes, private hire is available in 50 minute slots. Your group can have a maximum of 8 people. It is the same price for 1 person to 8 people as you are paying for exclusive use.
What are the opening times for the sauna?
Opening times differ for members and non members of The Lensbury. Please click on "Book Now" for more information.
I can no longer make my session, what do I do?
If it is more than 24 hours before your session, you can contact us to get a full refund. We are sorry to say there will be no refunds with less than 24 hours notice but please do contact us and we will do what we can to help.
Do you accept walk ins?
Walk ins are accepted for members of The Lensbury only, however you can book online until right before the slot time starts so make sure you check online for last minute availability!
How do I pay?
You will pay to secure your booking when you book online. For member walk ins, payment is available onsite.
Facilities
Are there showers and changing rooms?
Yes, there are shower and changing facilities a short walk from the pontoon. They are located at the rear of the High Performance Gym and have lockers and shower gel for your use.
Is there a shower on the pontoon?
Yes, there is a cold shower on the pontoon that we encourage you to use both before entering the facilities and between using the sauna and ice bath.
Do you provide towels?
No, we don't provide towels and recommend you bring two with you, one for sitting on in the sauna, and one for after your session.
Is there somewhere to buy drinks?
We offer complimentary water and herbal tea. If you'd like to purchase any other food or drink, The Lensbury has a bar area that you can access after your session.
Health and Safety
Is using a sauna good for you?
Yes, benefits may include improved circulation, stress relief, muscle recovery, and relaxation.
Can everyone use a sauna?
No, people with heart conditions, respiratory issues, or certain medical conditions should consult a doctor first. Pregnant women should also seek medical advice. We require you to complete a health questionnaire before using the facilities.
Does sauna help with weight loss?
You lose water weight through sweat, but it is temporary. Long-term weight loss requires diet and exercise.
Can I get dehydrated in a sauna?
Yes, always drink water before and after sessions.
Should I shower before or after the sauna?
It’s recommended to shower before (to remove oils/lotions) and after (to rinse sweat off).
Usage and Etiquette
What should I wear in a sauna?
Swimwear should be worn in our sauna and ice baths.
Do I need to bring anything to the sauna?
A towel, water bottle, and shower sandals are useful. The changing facilities are a short walk from the sauna and ice baths so you may want to bring a dry robe/dressing gown.
Is it okay to pour water on sauna rocks?
Yes. By adding water you will increase the humidity of your sauna experience. However, don't put on too much as you will cool the coals and decrease the sauna temperature.
How do I cool down after a sauna?
Step out into cooler air, take a cold shower, or dip in our ice baths.
Can I use a sauna after exercising?
Yes, it can help with recovery and relaxation. However please make sure you shower before using the facilities.
Miscellaneous
Do saunas help detoxify the body?
They promote sweating, which removes some toxins, but your liver and kidneys do most detox work.
Can I bring my phone into the sauna?
We do not recommended as heat and humidity can damage electronics.
Do saunas boost the immune system?
Some studies suggest regular sauna use may reduce risk of colds and improve immune response.
How do I prepare for my first sauna session?
Drink water, start with short sessions, and listen to your body.
Can children use saunas?
At TEMZ Floating Saunas we have an over 16 years old policy.