A New Kind of Social Club: Sweat It Out with The Good Sauna

Tucked into Treehouse Manchester’s outdoor space, The Good Sauna brings a different kind of city experience, one built around slowing down instead of speeding up. Moving between wood-fired heat, cold plunges, fresh air, and conversation, the experience feels equal parts restorative and social. Founded in Vancouver with the idea of creating a modern “third space,” The Good Sauna is rooted in connection: a place where strangers become conversation partners, phones disappear for a little while, and people leave feeling lighter than when they arrived. Whether stopping in after a day exploring Manchester or looking to reset before a night out, guests are invited to unplug, warm up, cool off, and stay a little longer. 

We spoke with the team behind The Good Sauna about modern wellness rituals, communal sauna culture, and why taking an hour to pause might just become the best part of your trip to Manchester.

Step Into the Heat with The Good Sauna Co

What first inspired you to start The Good Sauna, and what drew you to sauna culture in the first place?

The Good Sauna started life in 2023 in Vancouver, British Columbia. The ethos is simple, create a unique third space for people to gather, connect and unwind. In an increasingly disconnected world we want to be a place where people can connect IRL. A sauna is an intimate space which through its very nature lowers inhibitions and allows people to connect quickly, with minimal awkward silences. You’re also doing an activity that naturally boosts endorphins and enhances your day.

Sauna culture has existed for generations, but it suddenly feels very current again. Why do you think people are reconnecting with these kinds of rituals now?

Whilst we have the world at our fingertips now, technology has actually created a split in society where people are now more comfortable being confident online than in person. People have realized that being so online focussed is actually detrimental to living a full and happy life.

One of the biggest positive effects we can have on our mental health is having friends and people are looking for alternative ways to connect with each other that don't always include going to the pub. The sauna offers a great space to connect with like minded people and boost your health, which is accessible to everyone. Once you’ve got over your fears of being too hot or too cold!

There’s something surprisingly energizing about moving between the heat of the sauna and the cold plunge. What are some of the physical and mental benefits of that contrast?

The benefits are endless. I think the most noticeable is the change in how we feel, it reduces stress, alleviates anxiety and calms your nervous system, all whilst boosting dopamine levels. On the physical side it is great for cardiovascular health, blood flow, and healthy skin to name a few. There are so many health benefits and all you have to do is sit down.

Travel can easily become nonstop, especially during the summer months. How do spaces like The Good Sauna help people build moments of pause and restoration into their time in Manchester?

It's important to make time to rejuvenate, especially with a packed schedule. We offer a space to do that, take a break from your busy day, switch off your phone and allow your mind to wander. Especially when travelling it leaves you refreshed, uplifted and energized.

Treehouse is all about creating spaces that spark curiosity and connection. What is it about communal saunas that makes strangers feel comfortable enough to slow down and share a space together?

Communal saunas are the perfect way to connect, you are doing something that can be mentally challenging, especially the cold plunge, it fosters an immediate sense of comradery as you are in the experience together.

What do you hope someone takes back with them into the city after spending time moving between the sauna, cold plunge, and fresh air?

We want this to be the most memorable part of their time in the city. The fact that they spend an hour or so slowing down, enhances all the other fun things the city has to offer. It kills a hangover, it stimulates your appetite and helps you ease the aches from all the steps you take, sight seeing in the city.
A sauna experience is a must add on for any travel experience. It’s something as the owners of the Good Sauna that we put into practice on every trip we take. It's also perfect to meet some locals!