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ABOUT

Lexy - Founder of Black Swan Sauna

Hi, I’m Lexy, the founder of Black Swan Sauna. I’ve always had a deep interest in wellbeing and over the years, while I thought I was investing in my health with regular acupuncture, eating what I thought was healthy, and regularly exercising, it wasn’t until my own health began to decline in 2022 that I truly started seeking answers beyond the conventional medical system.

 

In my quest to improve my health, I dived into learning more about heat therapy and saunas, nutrition, holistic therapies, the environmental factors that impact our health and the importance of regular positive social connections. I became Outdoor First Aid trained and began leading free women’s hikes and wild camps while living in Devon.

 

Saunas have always been a treat for me, but as I began using them regularly, I noticed some incredible changes. My sleep dramatically improved, my skin became healthier, my body felt detoxed both inside and out and I started to meet like-minded people during my sessions. The health benefits of regular sauna use go far beyond just relaxation. According to a recent study conducted over 20 years with more than 2,000 Finnish sauna users, heat therapy has been shown to improve cardiovascular fitness, increase heart rate resilience , support insulin sensitivity, regulate blood sugar and blood pressure, and boost endorphin production, leading to that natural high we all crave!


The name Black Swan Sauna is inspired by my previous home near Dawlish, a town famous for its large population of black swans. Now that I’ve moved to Wiltshire, I wanted to bring the transformative experience I’ve gained to others in a space that promotes wellbeing, and I couldn’t have wished for a better partner location than Glove Factory Studios. Here, you can relax in the sauna whilst enjoying the full panoramic countryside views, dip in the lake or use one of the plunge pools, take a walk before or after a session, and enjoy the high-quality, delicious food served in the Wild Herb Café at The Field Kitchen.

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Sustainability & Craftsmanship

At Black Swan Sauna, we believe that wellbeing and sustainability go hand in hand. That’s why we chose to work with SaunaCraft, a Bristol-based sauna builder known for bespoke craftsmanship and a commitment to sustainability.

 

SaunaCraft sources materials from small, local suppliers. For instance, our Larch external cladding is sourced directly from Longleat Estate, with timber processed at a Wiltshire-based sawmill near Holt. Additionally, all other timber, including for the door and windows, is FSC-certified. Ollie, the owner, is a passionate sauna user who has studied traditional Finnish and Swedish sauna-building techniques, including the concept of ‘magic dimensions’, proportions designed for optimal heat circulation and comfort.

 

For the interior, we opted for Thermo Aspen, a high-spec material that offers a luxurious finish while releasing a subtle maple syrup aroma, enhancing the sauna experience. To ensure the best steam quality, we selected the Huum HIVE stove, an Estonian high-performance design that showcases the natural beauty of the stones while providing long-lasting, mild heat.


Of course, no sauna experience would be complete without a connection to nature. Our full panoramic window allows you to soak in the surrounding countryside, making each session a moment of escape, restoration, and deep relaxation.

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Commitment to Nature

We believe in giving back to the environment that supports our wellbeing. That’s why we’re committed to a minimum of four nature-based volunteering days per year at our sister business, Teign Valley Experiences.

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Since 2023, we’ve planted over 50 trees, including a small orchard, using Rainbow Terra Biodegradable Tree Shelters, the first and only Soil Certified tree shelters made from plant resin and recycled natural wood residue from the UK. We’ve also cleared tonnes of waste left by previous owners, laying the foundations for a green space designed to benefit both people and nature.

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Launching in May 2025, Teign Valley Experiences is dedicated to wellness through outdoor adventure. Located in Dartmoor National Park, it offers 24 acres of stunning landscape for wellness practitioners, outdoor leaders, and educational groups to host their events and aims for more people to reconnect with nature in a meaningful way.

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The full 24 acres are also available for exclusive Wild Camping experiences between May and September. Bookings are taken through the website or with our partners WildWithConsent and CampWild. 

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By supporting Black Swan Sauna, you're also contributing to these vital environmental efforts, helping us create spaces where both people and nature can thrive.

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‘’Wellness is sustainability for people and Sustainability is wellness for nature’’

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FAQ'S

  • Where are you located?
    Find us on Google Maps or using What3Words. Black Swan Sauna is located at Glove Factory Studios, Brook Lane, Holt, Bradford-on-Avon, Wilts, BA14 6RL. There is plenty of parking available. Once you arrive, head towards the café and look for the green space with two lakes. Walk through the small gate and follow the path towards the lake further away, you’ll see our sauna there. The ground can get muddy depending on the time of year, so we recommend bringing suitable shoes for walking on grass.
  • What do I need to bring?
    Swimwear: Ideally, arrive with your swimwear on, but we do have a shared shepherd's hut changing room. Two towels: One to sit on in the sauna and one to dry off with. A full water bottle: Staying hydrated is important. Flip-flops or Crocks: Useful for the outdoor shower or walking to and from the lake or plunge pools. Please note, all flip-flops must be removed before entering the sauna. Suitable shoes: The grass can get muddy, so wear something appropriate for walking. In the winter months, bring warm layers to change into after your session. Changing Robes (also known as dry robes) are a great option, take a look at our hybrid jacket/changing robes by Ryde, these are both waterproof and windproof for extra comfort.
  • I’ve never used a sauna, what can I expect?
    We recommend arriving 10 minutes early so we can guide you through your sauna experience. To make the most of your time, arrive with your swimwear on if possible. We do have a shared shepherd’s hut available for changing. Once inside the sauna, the key is to relax and listen to your body. Everyone's tolerance is different, but a good starting point is 10-15 minutes in the sauna, followed by a cold shower, a dip in the lake, using one of our plunge pools or simply stepping outside to cool down. Repeat as desired. You’re welcome to ladle water onto the stones using the provided equipment, and we’ll give you guidance on how often to do this. However, for safety reasons, customers are not allowed to operate the stove. Consider wearing a sauna hat, a thick and smooth wool hat slows down how quickly the hot air affects your head, allowing your body to heat up more evenly. This means you can enjoy longer, safer, and more comfortable sauna sessions, making it easier to fully unwind. We have two communal hats available per session for you to try which are antibacterial thanks to wool’s natural properties and washed every evening, but we do highly recommend getting your own if you sauna regularly to avoid availability disappointment. Our sauna hats are available through our store. Sauna bathing is a personal experience, take your time, enjoy the heat, and do what feels best for you.
  • When are you open?
    As a new business, our initial opening hours are: Fridays: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM Saturdays & Sundays: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM If you do not see a time slot available during this these hours, then this means the session is fully booked. We may also open for special events, so be sure to follow us on Instagram @blackswansauna or Facebook for updates! Our goal is to extend our opening days and hours as we grow, so stay tuned for future changes. Private Sessions: We will consider opening for a minimum of 2x private sessions outside of these hours where possible, please drop us an email at contact@blackswansauna.co.uk and we’ll do our best to accommodate your request.
  • Are children allowed?
    Yes, children are welcome! Ages 12–15 can join communal sessions with a parent or guardian present at all times and we ask that supervising adults explain to their children that this is a shared session with other guests who value relaxation and a peaceful environment. A printed waiver must be signed, please arrive 15 minutes early to allow time for this. We recommend children wear a sauna hat as this prevents all sauna users heads from overheating and enables them to tolerate sauna sessions longer. We have two hats available to borrow per communal session, but availability isn’t guaranteed. Arriving early helps us reserve one for you. If you visit regularly, sauna hats can also be purchased online and collected during opening hours. Children under 12 are only permitted in private sessions with family or friends, and a signed waiver is also required.
  • Do you have a changing room area?
    Yes, there is a shared shepherd’s hut that belongs to the Glove Dippers swimming group which Black Swan Sauna guests are allowed to use for changing. However, to make the most of your time and maximise your sauna experience, we recommend arriving with your swimwear on if possible, 15 mins early so that you can enter the sauna on the hour. Please note that all our experiences include time for changing and dipping in the lake or the plunge pools. Our sauna host will give you a 10 mins notice at 45 mins past the hour and kindly ask that you exit the sauna at 55 mins past the hour to enable us to clean the sauna in between the next group. If you'd like to use the changing room towards the end of your session, please be mindful of the next booking and do this within your allocated time slot. We also don’t suggest bringing valuables, please leave them at home or in your car. For safety reasons, we recommend removing jewellery before entering the sauna, as some metals can get very hot.
  • Do you have a shower?
    Yes, we have an outdoor shower that offers both a cold and warm experience. Please note that this shower is for a quick rinse or cool down only, and we do not allow any products to be used.
  • Can I dip in the lake?
    Yes, you can dip in the lake during your 60 minutes session. Please know that during the summer months, lakes can have an ecology condition known as duck itch which in some people can cause a skin rash. This can be avoidable if a shower is taken after a dip but affects some people and not others. Glove Dippers members tend to only swim in the lake during October to mid-April months as this isn’t an issue during cooler months. As a refreshing alternative, you have access to our cold shower facility and ambient temperature plunge pools for an invigorating cool-down. Just taking a break outside in the fresh air and letting your body temperature cool down before going back inside the sauna is also recommended. We have plenty of seating options all around the changing hut!
  • Do you have plunge pools?
    Yes! We have two plunge pools available. If you’re joining a communal session, please be mindful that these are for a quick dip (a couple of minutes) to allow everyone a chance to use them. As we are off-grid, we can’t guarantee a consistently cold temperature on hot days, as we don’t have a cooling system. However, our cold shower is always available, and we recommend cooling down gradually in the fresh air throughout your 60-minute sauna session. We have plenty of seating available around the changing hut. For hygiene reasons, we kindly ask that you rinse off in the shower before using the plunge pools.
  • What is the age limit?
    Children are welcome! Ages 12–15 can join communal sessions with a parent or guardian present at all times and we ask that supervising adults explain to their children that this is a shared session with other guests who value relaxation and a peaceful environment. A printed waiver must be signed, please arrive 15 minutes early to allow time for this. We recommend children wear a sauna hat as this prevents all sauna users heads from overheating and enables them to tolerate sauna sessions longer. We have two hats available to borrow per communal session, but availability isn’t guaranteed. Arriving early helps us reserve one for you. If you visit regularly, sauna hats can also be purchased online and collected during opening hours. Children under 12 are only permitted in private sessions with family or friends, and a signed waiver is also required.
  • How do I book?
    Simply head to our booking page! We offer both communal and private sessions for up to 7 people in 60 minute sessions, as well as gift vouchers.
  • Do you offer discounts, memberships or sauna savers?
    For those looking to commit to regular sauna visits, we also offer sauna saver packages: 6 Sessions: 6 sessions to use within 3 months of purchase, save 10% (£9.00) - The equivalent of approximately 1 session a fortnight based on 3 months (£13.50/session) 12 Sessions: 12 sessions to use within 3 months of purchase, save 15% (£27.00) - The equivalent of approximately 1 session a week based on 3 months (£12.75/session) These packages offer great savings while ensuring you can enjoy the benefits of consistent sauna use. If you're coming as a group, booking a private sauna session for £90 (up to 7 people) is the best value option, as you get the 7th seat free or if only 6 people attend, this works out at £12.85/pp. Perfect for friends, family, or team gatherings. Keep an eye out for updates, as we aim to increase our sauna opening times and days to offer more flexibility for your sessions.
  • How do I cancel or reschedule my booking?
    Cancellation Policy 48 hours or more in advance: - If you did not create an customer account before you made your booking, contact us on contact@blackswansauna.co.uk to cancel for a full refund or reschedule to an available time slot. - If you created an account before you made your booking, simply login and click on 'Bookings', you should be able to cancel or amend any bookings made before 48hrs. Less than 48 hours: Due to being a small business, unfortunately, we’re unable to reschedule or offer credit with less than 48 hours’ notice. However, you are welcome to transfer your booking to someone else. They’ll need to sign our waiver form. We do not offer credit for ‘no shows’. All sauna sessions are transferable. If you are unable to attend last minute, you can gift your session to a friend or family member as long as they complete and fill in the waiver form. Please note: The Black Swan Sauna operators reserve the right to refuse admission to intoxicated persons or anyone whose presence may pose a health and safety risk. Refunds will not be offered to anyone refused admission.
  • What do I need to know about the gift card?
    We set up our gift cards so that you have the option to gift: £15 - A seat in a 60-mins Communal Session £90 - Private 60-mins session for up to 7 people £81 - 6 sessions to use within 3 months of purchase, save 10% (£9.00) - The equivalent of approximately 1 session a fortnight based on 3 months (£13.50/session) £153 - 12 sessions to use within 3 months of purchase, save 15% (£27.00) - The equivalent of approximately 1 session a week based on 3 months (£12.75/session) Non-exchangeable for cash: Gift cards cannot be exchanged for money, even if you experience health problems. If you're unable to use it, we recommend gifting it to a friend or family member. Expiry: You have 12 months from the issue date to use your gift card. After that, it will automatically expire. How to redeem: To redeem your gift card, simply visit our website and go to the BOOK page, select your date and time and follow the steps until you see a box on the right hand side at checkout 'Redeem a gift card'. Please note that the voucher code is a one-time-use code, meaning it cannot be used multiple times and any remaining balance will not be carried over.
  • Do I have to wear swimwear in the sauna?
    Yes, swimwear is compulsory for all our experiences. As our sauna is located at Glove Factory Studios, where members of the public also visit the co-working spaces, the Wild Herb Café at The Field Kitchen, and enjoy countryside walks, nudity is not permitted in the sauna. We also ask that every customer sits on a towel at all times while using the sauna. This is also because once you start sweating, after 5-10 mins, your body will expel toxins. We advise that after you have completed the full 60mins sauna session and after your last shower rinse, that you use your 2nd fresh new towel to dry off with. Pop the towel you sat on in the sauna in the wash when you get on!
  • Can I bring my own essential oils or products to use in the sauna?
    For health and safety reasons, we kindly ask that you do not bring your own products or essential oils to use during your session. Unapproved essential oils can react to the heat, releasing toxins, igniting on the stove, or creating slippery surfaces inside the sauna. In the future, we may offer specialised sauna-safe treatments.
  • Do you allow alcohol in the sauna?
    Alcohol is not permitted in the sauna. The Black Swan Sauna operators reserve the right to refuse admission to intoxicated persons, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for all.
  • Who can use the sauna?
    You must not use the sauna if you: Suffer from high or low blood pressure, any heart or circulatory disorder, epilepsy, or diabetes Are pregnant Are prone to dizziness or fainting Are taking or under the influence of any drugs, alcohol, medication, or other substances that affect your mental or physical state Are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, including: A new continuous cough A high temperature A loss of, or change in, your normal sense of taste or smell (anosmia) If you are pregnant or have any underlying health issues, please seek advice from your doctor before booking. We always encourage you to listen to your body, take plenty of breaks, and stay hydrated. Remember to sign our waiver form before arriving for your session.
  • Relaxation & Stress Relief
    Wood-fired saunas offer a dual benefit of inducing deep relaxation in the body while simultaneously relieving stress and tension. This combined effect promotes overall well-being and mental clarity.
  • Muscle Recovery
    Saunas help muscle recovery by reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and flushing out metabolic waste products like lactic acid. The heat helps relax muscles, alleviate soreness, and accelerate healing after intense physical activity. Regular sauna use can also promote faster recovery between workouts, enhance flexibility, and improve overall fitness levels by increasing endurance and reducing muscle fatigue.
  • Mood Boost & Anxiety Reduction
    Sauna sessions trigger endorphin release, lifting mood and promoting a sense of calm. The tranquil environment also helps ease anxiety and mental fatigue.
  • Improved Circulation & Better Sleep
    The heat from the sauna enhances blood circulation, supporting cardiovascular health and promoting relaxation. This helps to clear the mind, reduce stress, and prepare the body for a deeper, more restful sleep, improving overall sleep quality.
  • Detoxification & Skin Health
    Intense sweating helps expel toxins that accumulate from processed foods, pollution, and everyday environmental exposure. This cleansing process supports organ function and leaves the skin refreshed.
  • Enhanced Immune System
    Regular heat exposure stimulates white blood cell production, strengthens immune response, and helps the body fend off illness more effectively, reducing the frequency of illnesses and supporting overall health.
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