Forget the Shed Office: Why Garden Saunas Are the New Must-Have for UK Homes

A garden sauna can create a dedicated space to enjoy warmth and quiet time at home. Before choosing one, decide where it will go, which type of heating you prefer and how the cabin will be delivered and installed.

An outdoor sauna and an indoor infrared cabin are different products with different requirements. Matching the model to the setting is a better starting point than treating every sauna as a garden-room accessory.

Choose the Right Sauna for the Setting

Canadian Spa Company's Chilliwack and Tremblant are indoor far-infrared cabins. The Outdoor Oval Barrel is a hybrid model with infrared and traditional electric heating, designed for outdoor installation. Check the exact model specification and installation instructions before choosing a location.

An indoor cabin should not be put outside simply because there is a roof over it. If you are considering a garage, summerhouse or garden room, confirm that the environment meets the cabin's requirements, including protection from damp and the necessary ventilation and clearance.

Plan the Space Around the Cabin

Measure the cabin footprint and height, then allow for the door to open, access to controls, cleaning and maintenance. Consider the route between the house and the sauna and how you will use that space in wet or cold weather.

• Check the base requirements for the exact model.
• Confirm the available electrical supply and any installation work needed.
• Plan ventilation and service clearance in line with the instructions.
• Check access for delivery and assembly, including gates, steps and narrow turns.
• Confirm any local requirements that apply to the proposed garden installation.

Do not assume that an outdoor cabin needs minimal groundwork or that every model can be assembled in the same time. The work depends on the product, the site and the delivery option.

Compare Indoor Infrared and Outdoor Hybrid Options

Indoor infrared models use radiant heat from panels. The outdoor hybrid model also offers traditional electric heating. Compare the heating equipment, controls, capacity and dimensions on each listing, and follow the model's operating instructions.

Choose a cabin that suits your available space and preferred experience. Follow the model's operating instructions when planning how you will use it.

Budget for Installation and Use

Allow for the cabin, delivery, assembly, base preparation and any electrical work. Check what is included in the selected delivery option before ordering.

Electricity costs depend on the model's power use, session length, temperature setting and your tariff. A socket rating alone does not establish the cost of a session, and a single price-per-use figure will not suit every household.

Check the Details Before Ordering

Read the current product listing for availability, dimensions, included equipment and warranty. Confirm the installation arrangements with our team if the location or delivery route is unclear.

Sauna types compared

Prices and specifications from our product pages at the time of writing. A traditional cabin with a stove only is another option, but it is not part of our current range.

Base and power needs

Outdoor electrical work must be done by a qualified electrician. The GOV.UK list of competent person schemes can help you find one.

Planning permission basics

Many outdoor saunas fall under permitted development as outbuildings, but there are limits on height, position, use and how much of the garden is covered. Read the Planning Portal guidance on outbuildings. Listed buildings, conservation areas and flats have different rules, so check with your council if in doubt.

Running costs

Multiply the power in kilowatts by the hours used, then by your unit rate. These examples assume the heaters run at full power throughout, which overstates the cost once the cabin is up to temperature, and use the October to December 2026 Ofgem cap rate of 26.32p per kWh.

Buyer's checklist

• Indoor or outdoor: does the model suit the location?
• Footprint and height, plus room for the door, controls and maintenance.
• Base ready and level.
• Power supply in place, or an electrician booked.
• Planning position checked.
• Delivery access: gates, steps and narrow turns. The outdoor barrel arrives flat-packed on a pallet of about 224 x 130 x 48 cm, weighing about 360 kg.
• Who will assemble it.
• Health: you shouldn't use a sauna while pregnant, and anyone with a heart condition, blood pressure problems or another medical condition should speak to their GP first.

Questions? Contact our team or call 01293 824094.