Nestled in the peaceful woodland glade behind the animal pens at Hartcliffe City Farm lies a true South Bristol treasure: Stone & Steam Community Sauna. This inclusive, nature-immersed sauna space is the perfect antidote to city life – a place to pause, sweat, cool down, connect, and reset, all surrounded by trees, fresh air, friendly farm animals, and stunning views of rolling hills one way and the city the other.

Run by Katie (she/her) in partnership with Hartcliffe City Farm, Stone & Steam draws on traditional Finnish sauna principles to create something far removed from the stuffy, electric “toaster” saunas many of us have endured in gyms. Here, the heat is wood-fired, powerful yet soft and enveloping, with excellent ventilation, no toxic materials, and a design focused on genuine comfort and wellbeing. It’s temperature contrast therapy done right – and in one of the most magical settings in Bristol.

What the Experience Feels Like

Each 75-minute session follows a restorative rhythm:

• Heat up in the beautiful 16-person cedar sauna (up to 18 for private hires) for 10-20 minutes, letting the gentle wood-fired warmth work its magic on body and mind.
• Cool down with invigorating outdoor showers and a refreshing cold plunge – that classic contrast that leaves you buzzing with energy and clarity.
• Rest in the woodland glade by the fire pit, perhaps with a warm drink from the on-site café, before repeating the cycle up to 4 times.

It’s a calm, social (or quietly introspective) space to move between heat, cold, and rest – held gently in nature. Whether you’re seeking stress relief, better sleep, improved circulation, or simply a moment to reconnect, the benefits of regular sauna use are well-documented, and this one makes it feel effortless and joyful.