Liverpool’s floating Wyld Sauna opened close to the waterfront in November 2024 and now the facility is to expand its footprint and offer dedicated sessions to women, the elderly and LGBTQ+ groups. Tony McDonough reports
Work is under way on a “major expansion” of Wyld Sauna at Princes Dock in Liverpool Waters.
Since opening in November 2024, the floating Wyld Sauna has proved a popular destination, welcoming thousands of guests to experience hot and cold therapy on the waterfront.
Now Wyld is growing, and this next phase comes directly from listening to the people who use it, with work set to complete in early summer.
Its expanded site will support a broader programme of sessions designed for and curated by Liverpool’s diverse communities. This includes dedicated sessions so everyone can enjoy the space as they would like.
From focusing on building safe spaces for LGBTQ+ groups to fighting the loneliness epidemic with events catering to over-60s.Alongside these programmes, Wyld plans to host regular women-only and silent sessions.
As part of the redevelopment, the original floating sauna, now a signature part of Liverpool’s waterfront, will be refurbished and upgraded in line with the new facilities.
Benches will be improved, flooring will be changed, new cold plunges brought in and upgrades to the sauna heaters will be made for more consistent and powerful heat delivery.
A key focus of the redevelopment is improving accessibility and becoming one of the UK’s first fully wheelchair-accessible saunas. This includes the installation of a lift to improve access to the dock and changes to support guests with limited mobility.
Policies such as companion passes will also be introduced where capacity allows, aiming to build a space for everyone, guided by those who need these changes most.
It is also introducing a new “Board of Culture”; a collective that will help guide the future direction of the space, ensuring it continues to reflect the needs and voices of the community it serves.
Jon Miller, co-founder of Wyld Sauna, said: “Wyld was never meant to be just a sauna, it’s about creating a space where people feel welcome, included and connected.
“This next phase is all about listening to our community and responding in a way that’s meaningful. From the facilities to the programming, every decision has been intentional.”
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While the expansion work takes place, Wyld Sauna’s current facilities will remain fully operational, with the team committed to keeping disruption to a minimum. Guests will be given advance notice of any temporary closures if required.
Alongside the expanded sauna offerings, Wyld Sauna will introduce a considered food and drink offering. Starting with fresh pastries and coffee in the morning, it will evolve throughout the day into a tailored pre and post-sauna menu.”