Nestled deep within the High Weald of East Sussex, an architectural gem is converting even the most ardent sauna sceptics. The Drying Shed, with its traditional Japanese design, offers a unique thermal experience that blends seamlessly into its ancient woodland setting.
From Sauna Sceptic to Convert
The author's boyfriend, initially doubtful about the appeal of sitting in extreme heat, found himself completely won over. The secret weapon wasn't just the heat itself, but the breathtaking view through a large picture window overlooking a secluded copse and stream. Wildlife spotting became part of the ritual, with deer, kingfishers, and cheerful robins providing distraction from the intensifying temperature.
The couple embraced the full Scandinavian-style experience, moving between the 85°C sauna and cooling off in an icy shower or brave plunge in the cold-water forest tub. This alternating between hot and cold left them feeling remarkably alive and invigorated.
Architect-Designed Sustainable Retreat
The Drying Shed resembles a small rust-coloured temple, its design influenced by traditional Japanese buildings. It's fuelled by logs from sustainably managed local woodlands, with sessions lasting three hours including lighting the wood-fired stove. The sauna can reach temperatures between 60-100°C, though averages around 85°C.
Nearby, Hill Cabin provides accommodation that continues the natural theme. This former farm building has been transformed with black cladding and Scandi-inspired interiors featuring lime-washed wooden floors, timber panelling, and vintage furniture. The cabin boasts its own wood-fired hot tub, fire pit, and spectacular valley views where guests can spot friendly sheep, horses, and Mavis the donkey.
UK's Growing Wild Sauna Movement
The UK has embraced outdoor saunas with remarkable enthusiasm since lockdown. According to the British Sauna Society, the number of wild saunas on beaches and in forests doubled from 104 in May 2024 to 213 in May 2025.
Farmer's son Will Gowland, an architect who grew up on Great Park Farm where these retreats are located, has ambitious expansion plans. His practice, Built Works, designed and constructed the Drying Shed and is now building two more cabins scheduled to open in spring.
Yogi's Cabin will feature its own natural swimming pond and yoga studio, while Bather's Cabin will include an indoor-outdoor private spa extending onto the roof terrace. Future plans include Musician's, Chef's, and Explorer's cabins, all handmade from sustainable materials including local larch and British hemp for insulation.
Will acknowledges that building this way costs five times as much but emphasises their commitment to genuine sustainability. As a certified Passive House designer with membership in the Association for Environment Conscious Building, his approach represents the cutting edge of eco-friendly construction.
The existing cabins start from £242 per night for two people, while a three-hour sauna session at the Drying Shed costs £45 for up to four people. Cabin guests receive discounts and benefit from extended opening hours from 7am until 10pm, seven days a week.
