terms & conditions

Using The Hide

Woodland Sauna · Set within Houchins Estate, North Essex

We want your session to be safe, relaxing, and unforgettable. Please take a moment to read through these guidelines before you arrive. If you are booking on behalf of a group, it is your responsibility to make all users aware of these terms and conditions, to practise safe sauna use, and to let others know what to bring and any other useful information.

Safety First

  • Sauna use is at your own risk.

  • You must be 18 or over to use the sauna in any community or private session.

  • Do not use the sauna if you have a medical condition affected by heat (such as heart issues, high blood pressure, or pregnancy) unless your doctor has cleared you.

  • Remove all jewellery. The sauna reaches high temperatures, which can heat metal and cause burns.

  • We reserve the right to refuse admission to intoxicated persons.

  • If you feel dizzy, faint, or unwell, leave the sauna immediately.

  • Be mindful of hot surfaces, slippery floors, and sudden changes in temperature.

  • The sauna stove is extremely hot. Do not touch the stove, stove guard, or sauna rocks, and only pour water onto the stones as instructed.

  • Use of the sauna is at your own risk. Please contact your GP if you are in any doubt about using the sauna safely.

If any of the below apply to you (please note, this is not a comprehensive list), we advise you to seek your GP’s advice:

  • You are pregnant

  • You have had a heart attack or stroke

  • You are taking any medications

  • You have cardiovascular conditions or problems

  • You have epilepsy

  • You have asthma or breathing conditions

  • You have high or low blood pressure

  • You have arterial disease

  • You have a joint or muscle injury

Age Restrictions

  • The minimum age for sauna use is 18.

  • Our insurance policy does not permit anyone under the age of 18.

  • Anyone under the age of 18 will not be permitted to use the sauna or any other equipment provided by The Hide.

Sauna Etiquette

To keep the sauna safe, comfortable, and enjoyable for everyone, please follow these guidelines:

  • Session length: Limit each sauna session to 20 minutes maximum (we recommend 5–15 minutes for the best experience).

  • Water on the rocks: When pouring water on the rocks, start from the point furthest away from you to prevent scalding. Only use the provided sauna water — nothing else.

  • Do not use essential oils in the sauna without permission.

  • Safe entry and exit: Step carefully when coming in or out, and keep doorways clear so others can exit quickly if needed.

  • Clean feet, no shoes: Remove footwear before entering and make sure your feet are clean.

  • Hands off the stove: For your safety, please don’t touch any part of the heater or stones.

  • Sit on a towel: Always use a towel to sit or lie on inside the sauna.

  • Be respectful: Keep noise low and be mindful of other bathers.

  • Cold plunge etiquette: Rinse off before using the cold plunge buckets.

  • Jewellery: Remove jewellery, watches, and any eyewear before your session to avoid burns or damage.

  • Clothing: Only swimwear may be worn in the sauna. Nudity is not permitted.

Cold Water Therapy

  • Use of the cold plunge buckets is entirely at your own risk.

  • Make sure you are confident in cold water before taking part.

Our Liability

  • The Hide is not responsible for injuries, health issues, or lost or damaged personal belongings.

  • By booking, you accept these risks and waive any claims against The Hide.

Private Hire & Events

  • A 50% deposit is required to confirm a private booking, with the balance due 5 days before your event.

  • Any damage caused during private hire will be charged to the person who made the booking.

Bookings, Payments & Cancellations

  • All sessions must be booked via our website using the Acuity Scheduling platform.

  • Full payment is required at the point of booking.

  • We’re happy to refund or reschedule any community or private session up to 48 hours before your session.

  • Refunds may be subject to a small admin fee.

  • Rescheduling is always free.

How to reschedule

  • If you booked via Acuity Scheduling, you can reschedule directly through your confirmation email.

  • Otherwise, email us at hello@thehidesauna.co.uk with your booking details (name, date, time).

How to request a refund

Please note: cancellations on the day or no-shows can’t be refunded or rescheduled.

We reserve the right to refuse admission for any reason that may be deemed a health and safety risk. Refunds will not be offered to anyone refused admission.

Weather Policy

We operate in most conditions, but if extreme weather (storms, high winds, etc.) makes it unsafe, we may cancel and offer you a full refund or reschedule.

Photography & Privacy

  • Photography is allowed only with consent from everyone in the frame.

  • The Hide may capture images for marketing. We’ll always ask permission before taking any photos or videos and before including you in any marketing material.

Contact Us

Email: hello@thehidesauna.co.uk

Instagram: @thehidesauna