Gay sauna in Dublin: your first visit to The Boilerhouse
How a first visit to a gay sauna works, the house rules and what to bring, with The Boilerhouse in Temple Bar, Dublin's men-only gay sauna, open around the clock at weekends.
Our directory lists one men-only gay sauna in Dublin, tucked into a lane in Temple Bar. If you have never been to a gay sauna, the first visit can raise questions: what happens, what do you wear, and do you have to do anything? Here is a practical guide.
The Boilerhouse, Temple Bar
The Boilerhouse is in Dublin 2, in the heart of Temple Bar. Spread over several floors, it has a dry sauna, steam rooms, a jacuzzi, play areas, private rooms and a coffee bar. At weekends it stays open around the clock, so you can come after a night out or for a quiet Sunday morning steam.
How a first visit works
At the desk you pay, show ID if asked, and get a towel and a locker key. You change, shower, and then move around at your own pace: sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, coffee bar. The play areas and private rooms are there for those who want them, with no obligation at all. Plenty of regulars just come for the heat, a coffee and a chat.
A good tip for a first time is to come on a weekday afternoon, when it is calmer, and take a full tour before settling anywhere.
House rules and etiquette
- Consent first. A look or a gesture: check the other person is interested. A "no", even without words, is respected straight away. Moving someone's hand away means no.
- Phones away. No phones or photos in shared areas.
- Shower first. Before the steam room and the jacuzzi.
- Safer sex. Condoms and lube for any contact; many saunas provide them.
- Everyone is welcome. All ages and all bodies.
Sexual health
Regular testing is part of a healthy sex life. Ask about PrEP at a sexual health clinic, and keep up with vaccinations. If you are new to the scene, LGBTQ+ health services in Dublin can answer questions confidentially.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be a member? No, you pay at the door.
How long should I stay? Two to three hours lets you enjoy the sauna, steam and coffee bar without rushing.
Is it only for gay men? It is men-only. Bisexual and curious men are welcome as long as they respect the rules.
Before or after: a night out in Dublin
The Boilerhouse is a short walk from several LGBTQ+ bars. The George, on South Great George's Street since the mid-1980s, runs drag nights and DJs through the week, and Pantibar, on Capel Street north of the Liffey, is open every night with cabaret, karaoke and drag shows.
More on the map
All addresses are on our gay saunas and drag cabarets pages, with a map and directions. On the move, the "Near me" feature shows the closest venues. See everything in Dublin.
