Welcome to the first in our series of behind-the-scenes features, where we share the passion, purpose, and plans driving Sea Scrub Sauna forward. In this edition, we take a look at our origins—the inspiration, the journey, and what’s next.
From Scandinavian Winters to a Sauna Revival
Long, dark, and seemingly endless—Scandinavian winters can test even the hardiest of souls. As someone who didn’t grow up on skis, I often wondered what options existed beyond the slopes to stay active, warm, and sane through the coldest months. My answer came in the form of Oslo’s floating sauna villages—welcoming, social, and perfectly placed along the Oslo Fjord.
Only a few years ago, Oslo’s waterfront was far from the vibrant hub it is today. The once-neglected harbour lacked life, energy, and community spirit. But then came the rise of public sauna culture. What started as a small movement quickly transformed into a defining feature of the city. Today, floating saunas, sauna boats, and lively public bathing spots have revitalized the area, attracting a new generation eager to embrace the benefits of hot and cold immersion.
This surge in sauna culture didn’t just change the cityscape—it changed lives. With easy access, affordable pricing, and locations at the heart of urban life, these saunas became an essential part of daily routines. Whether at sunrise before work or in the evening under the northern lights, people from all walks of life began incorporating sauna sessions and cold-water dips into their lifestyle.
So why couldn’t the same be possible in the U.K.?
Bringing the Sauna Movement to the Kent Coast
Having lived in Norway, I witnessed first-hand how access to saunas and cold-water swimming transformed communities. Yet, when I looked back at my roots on the Kent coast, I saw a similar untapped potential. Towns like Margate and Whitstable, rich in history and natural beauty, have long drawn people to the sea. But outside of the summer months, what’s left?
Like many coastal towns across the UK, Kent has suffered from seasonal tourism, pollution, and a lack of year-round activities often resulting in anti social behaviour and despondency.
While cold water swimming has surged in popularity since Covid, sauna culture is still in it’s early stages.
It wasn’t always easy convincing the Norwegian authorities to allow floating saunas in prime waterfront locations. But once they did, the results spoke for themselves—cleaner waters, stronger communities, improved mental and physical well-being, and a boost in year-round tourism. If it could work in Oslo, why not on the Kent coast?
That’s what led to the birth of Sea Scrub Sauna—a vision to make high-quality, accessible saunas a part of coastal life in Kent. We believe in giving people the opportunity to reconnect with nature, relieve stress, and build community in a way that’s both ancient and refreshingly modern.
More Than Just a Sauna—A Social Shift
In today’s world, where our attention is constantly divided, stepping into a sauna is an act of presence. It’s a space where you can disconnect from your phone, reconnect with your body, and even share a moment with strangers in a way that feels both humbling and liberating.
As a father of young children, I understand the need for social spaces that don’t revolve around alcohol. Traditional pubs might be the default meeting place, but saunas offer something different—an environment where people can come together, talk, reflect, and embrace the restorative power of heat and cold.
At Sea Scrub Sauna, our goal is simple: to create welcoming, affordable, and high-quality sauna experiences in some of Kent’s most stunning seaside locations. Step by step, we’re working to build a movement that mirrors the magic of Scandinavia’s flourishing sauna scene, one that belongs to the people and strengthens local communities.
Thank you for being part of our journey so far. This is just the beginning—keep your eyes peeled for new location reveals on our socials very soon!
Cheers, Luke
