Light-Up Sauna and Wild Swim at Barnard Castle

The Light Up Sauna & Swim is a special evening version of the traditional sauna and wild swim. The experience takes place under soft lighting, with themed music and glowing accessories to add a touch of fun and atmosphere. The night-time setting makes the sauna’s warmth feel even more comforting, while the lake’s cool water contrasts beautifully against the backdrop of the evening sky.

Beyond the visuals, this session is more sociable, featuring a post-swim gathering around the fire pit with hot chocolate and marshmallows. It’s less about pure recovery and more about relaxation, community, and enjoying the outdoors in a new light — quite literally.

To stay comfortable, you’ll need swimwear, two towels (one to sit on in the sauna), warm layers, and a change of clothes. Many guests also bring a hat or cosy socks for after the session, as temperatures can drop in the evenings. It’s also a good idea to bring a bottle of water or a non-alcoholic drink to stay hydrated.

Everything else — from the fire pit to the hot chocolate — is provided by the team. They’ve thought of all the small details to make your evening enjoyable, so you only need to focus on relaxing and having a good time.

Yes, absolutely. The swimming area is well-lit, and all sessions are closely supervised by staff. The lake at TCR The Hub is calm and suitable for controlled, shallow dips, making it ideal for beginners and regular swimmers alike.

Before entering the water, you’ll receive a full safety briefing that covers the best way to enter, exit, and manage the temperature changes. The team ensures every participant feels confident before taking part, and staff remain present throughout the session to support where needed.

Definitely — beginners are welcome, and many participants attend their first session here. The environment is supportive and guided, with experienced staff available to help you ease into the process. You’ll learn how to safely alternate between the heat of the sauna and the coolness of the lake, always at your own pace.

Wild swimming in this setting is less about distance and more about experience. Even a short dip can provide huge wellbeing benefits, leaving you with a clear mind and a lasting sense of calm.

Those with medical conditions such as heart problems, circulation issues, or low/high blood pressure should seek medical advice before booking. The contrast between hot and cold temperatures can have strong effects on the body, so it’s important to know your own limits.

If you’re unsure, speak to a member of the team before your session. They’ll help you adapt your experience safely — for instance, by adjusting your sauna time or limiting the number of dips. Staying hydrated and listening to your body are key parts of the process.

The sauna tent is fully weatherproof, and sessions continue even in cooler or drizzly weather. In fact, the combination of steam, firelight, and mist often makes the evening even more atmospheric. The only exceptions are severe weather conditions such as high winds or storms, in which case the team may reschedule for safety.

You’ll be informed of any changes as early as possible. Refunds or transfers are available if the weather prevents your session from going ahead.

It’s best to arrive around 10 minutes before your start time. This allows you to check in, get changed, and make your way to the lakeside without feeling rushed. The team will be there to greet you, explain the setup, and answer any questions before things begin.

Arriving early also gives you a chance to settle into the evening atmosphere and get used to the lighting and surroundings. It’s all part of easing into the slower, mindful rhythm that makes these sessions so enjoyable.