London's booming wellness scene has received a prestigious international endorsement, with the city's urban sauna culture being named one of the best travel experiences on the planet for the year 2026.
A Global Recognition for a Local Trend
In a list compiled by National Geographic featuring the 20 most exciting global 'travel adventures' for 2026, the simple act of sitting in an urban sauna in London secured an impressive seventh place. The list, which aims to highlight experiences that 'engage all the senses' and live up to their hype, placed the London activity alongside adventures like forest bathing in Japan and football pilgrimages in South America.
This recognition, published on Sunday 4 January 2026, underscores how a local wellness pastime has captured worldwide attention. While many global cities offer saunas, London has seen a remarkable surge in openings over recent years, transforming it into a hub for this communal heat experience.
The Rise of London's Sauna Scene
The UK capital's landscape is now dotted with a diverse array of saunas, from community-focused, not-for-profit baths to innovative rooftop installations. This growth reflects a broader shift towards urban wellness and social bathing. National Geographic specifically highlighted the Rooftop Saunas in Hackney as a prime example, praising the venue for 'offering a serene escape in the clouds… with sweeping views of the skyline'. Sessions at this popular spot start from £11.
For wellness-inclined Londoners, this global accolade may come as no surprise. The city has wholeheartedly embraced the sauna as a cornerstone of modern relaxation and social connection, creating a unique urban ritual that now draws the eyes of international travellers.
UK Dominance on the Global Stage
London's sauna culture was not the only UK experience to earn top honours from National Geographic. The publication named stargazing in Northumberland as the number one travel adventure in the world for 2026. It recommended a visit to the Kielder Observatory, described as the country's 'most revered astronomical institution outside of Greenwich', for a unique opportunity to explore the cosmos.
This double recognition positions the United Kingdom as a leading destination for transformative and sensory travel experiences, blending urban innovation with access to pristine natural wonders.
The inclusion of London's saunas on this prestigious list is a testament to the city's evolving character, proving that even its hottest trends can offer a profound and globally competitive experience for both residents and visitors alike.
