Cancellation & Refund Policy
A little about how we work
Chiltern Sauna Circle is a wild, community-led sauna in the Chilterns, not a spa with a front desk. Most of our time is spent out on site: lighting the fire, getting the sauna up to heat and welcoming people in from the cold.
That means we're not sat at a laptop all day. Messages might take a little while to answer, especially at weekends when we're busiest on site. If you don't hear back straight away, it's usually because we're out there tending the fire for someone else's session.
Why we have a policy
Each session only has 8 spaces, and every one is held just for the person who booked it. When a space is cancelled or moved at the last minute, it's very hard to fill, and changing bookings takes time away from looking after our guests.
So we've kept things clear and simple. Instead of refunds, we offer account credit, so your money is never lost and you can come another time. It's about keeping sessions running smoothly, being fair to everyone and helping people book with intention.
Think of it like a ticket
If you couldn't make a gig or a film, you'd probably pass your ticket to a friend. Sauna works the same way, and that's often the easiest option for everyone.
Can't make it? Pass it on
You're welcome to give your space to a friend, at any time and at no cost. Just email us their name so we know who to expect. Use anna@chilternsaunacircle.com to let us know.
Community sessions and events
More than 48 hours before your session
You can reschedule to another date, or cancel and receive account credit to spend on a future booking.
Tip: use the manage link in your confirmation email to reschedule or cancel yourself. There's no need to contact us.
Within 48 hours of your session
We're unable to offer a reschedule or credit, but you can still pass your space to a friend.
No-shows
We're unable to offer a reschedule or credit if you don't arrive for your session. If you know you can't make it, please let us know so we're not waiting for you.
Private hire
A private booking reserves the whole sauna just for your group, and we often turn other groups away and prepare extras for you, so we ask for a little more notice.
More than 7 days before your booking
We're happy to move your booking to another date, or give you account credit to use on a future booking.
Within 7 days of your booking
We're unable to offer a reschedule or credit.
Private hire bookings can only be changed by us, so please email anna@chilternsaunacircle.com to make any changes.
If we have to cancel
If we need to cancel for safety reasons, such as storms or high winds, we'll let you know as soon as possible. Your payment will automatically be returned as account credit to use on a future booking. If you'd prefer a refund instead, just email us and we'll arrange it.
Arriving late
Sessions start and finish on time so every group gets their full hour. If you're running late, come anyway and enjoy the time you have, but we're unable to extend your session.
Feeling unwell?
Please don't visit the sauna if you're ill. If it's more than 48 hours before a community session or event (or more than 7 days before a private hire), you can reschedule or take account credit. If it's closer to the time, you're welcome to pass your space to a friend.
Gift vouchers and bundles
Gift vouchers and session bundles are non-refundable and are valid for 12 months from purchase.
How to change your booking
Community sessions and events
Up to 48 hours before your session, use the manage link in your confirmation email to reschedule or cancel for account credit. It's the quickest way to sort it, and there's no need to email us.
Private hire
Email anna@chilternsaunacircle.com with your name and booking date. We'll reply as soon as we're back from the fire, and your request counts from the time you send it.
Thank you for booking with us, and for supporting a local, independent sauna. See you in the heat.