A sauna and ice bath cafe is set to open in Manchester this September

A new sauna and ice bath cafe is set to open its doors in Manchester this September.

Kontrast will be tucked away behind Angel Meadow Park and will feature three high-tech saunas, including an infrared option, and three ice baths, each with varying temperatures to cater to different preferences.

Inspired by the success of similar concepts in Finland, Denmark, Taiwan and Japan, Kontrast aims to become a community hub which brings people together ‘through the transformative power of contrast therapy, a wellness practice that involves alternating between hot and cold treatments to stimulate circulation, spike energy levels, reduce inflammation, deepen sleep, and boost overall mental and physical health.’

Beyond the wellness facilities, Kontrast offers a curated menu of healthy snacks, juices, teas, and speciality coffee from Blossom Coffee.

Throughout its first month of opening, Kontrast will partner with the mental health charity MIND, contributing 50% of all booking donations to support mental health initiatives, underscoring its commitment to the community.

Jamie Smith, owner of Kontrast, was inspired to set up the venue following a trip to Taiwan: “After experiencing the incredible effects of hot and cold therapy on physical and mental health during my travels, I wanted to bring that same sense of wellness and community back to Manchester,” Jamie shared.

Kontrast promises to provide and accessible and inclusive space for all, and will be open late into the evenings for nighttime sessions to meet after-work demand. It will also host regular breathwork workshops, yoga sessions and other wellness events.

Visitors can choose between 60-minute off-peak sessions, priced at £10, or 90-minute peak sessions, at £17. Memberships and class bundles will also be available.

Kontrast is set to open this September.