Hot tub + cold tub policy

Before you start

• Never use the hot tub alone.
• Shower and use the toilet before entering.
• Wash dirt from your feet.
• Wear swimwear only.
• Do not enter with creams, oils, makeup, spray tan or sun lotion on your skin.
• Keep glass, food, smoking materials and sharp objects away from the tub.
• The maximum number of bathers is 6 persons.

Water temperature

• Stir the water thoroughly before checking the temperature.
• Check the thermometer before anyone enters; the recommended bathing temperature is 36–38°C.
• Never enter if the water is above 40°C.
• Stop adding logs before the target temperature is reached as the water may continue getting hotter.

Using the hot tub

• Keep your head above the water, and do not jump or dive into the tub.
• Limit each period in the tub to 15 minutes, then get out and cool down.
• Leave immediately if you feel dizzy, faint, sick, breathless or overheated.
• Do not use the tub while under the influence of alcohol, recreational drugs or sedatives.
• Do not urinate in the water.
• Take care when getting in + out as the surrounding surfaces and steps may be slippery.

Children + health

• Children under five must not use the hot tub. Older children must be supervised continuously by a responsible adult.
• Do not use the tub if you have diarrhoea, vomiting, a contagious illness, open wounds or infected skin.
• Pregnant guests, immunocompromised guests and people with heart, circulation and other relevant medical conditions should obtain medical advice before use.

Wood burner

• Never light the burner unless the tub is filled as you may cause a fire.
• Use only the logs, kindling and firelighters provided.
• The burner, door, flue and surrounding metal become extremely hot; do not touch them.
• Keep towels, clothing, children and combustible items away from the burner.
• Never drain the tub while the fire is burning as you may cause a fire.
• Follow the separate Wood-Burner instructions provided beside the notice.

Stop using the tub if:

• The water exceeds 40°C.
• The water looks dirty, cloudy or unusually coloured, or there is an unusual smell.
• The thermometer is missing or damaged.
• The burner, flue, steps or handrail appear unsafe, or anything does not seem right.

Emergency

• For fire, serious burns, collapse, breathing difficulty or immediate danger, call 999.
• Location: Patty’s Barn, Hillam Lane, Cockerham, Lancaster, LA2 0DY.
• Patty’s Barn emergency contacts: Michelle 07502 726596 or Rachel 07814 932959.

Need a hand?

If you have any trouble getting the hot tub up to temperature or lighting the fire, just let us know. We are happy to help.

Cold plunge: before you start

• Cold water can cause a sudden gasp and rapid breathing, and put extra strain on the heart. Water at 15°C or below can cause cold-water shock.
• Never use the cold plunge alone. Have someone beside the tub who can help you get out and call for assistance.
• If you have a heart condition, discuss cold-water immersion with your doctor or specialist before use. If you are pregnant, have another medical condition or take medication that may affect your response to cold, seek medical advice first.
• Do not use the cold plunge if you feel unwell or are under the influence of alcohol, recreational drugs or sedatives. Shower before entering and keep glass away from the tub.
• Check the water temperature and make sure you can enter and leave safely. Follow the instructions beside the tub.

Entering + using the cold plunge

• Enter slowly and carefully; never jump or dive in. Keep your head and face above the water and breathe normally. Do not hold your breath or practise hyperventilation in or beside the water.
• Keep your dip brief. There is no single safe duration for everyone: temperature, health and experience all matter. Do not try to reach a time target or compete with others.
• Get out promptly if you feel uncomfortable, start shivering, become numb, feel weak or dizzy, or cannot control your breathing. Ask your companion for help with the exit.

After your cold plunge

• Dry off promptly, change into warm, dry layers and warm up gradually in a sheltered place. Have a warm non-alcoholic drink if you are fully alert.
• Your body can continue cooling after you leave the water. Do not use a very hot bath or the hot tub to rewarm if you are very cold or unwell.
• For chest pain, collapse, severe breathing difficulty, confusion or immediate danger, call 999 and ask for an ambulance. Tell them you are at Patty’s Barn, Hillam Lane, Cockerham, Lancaster, LA2 0DY. Alert Michelle or Rachel as soon as possible.

Requesting your hot tub day

• There are two hot tubs on site; one is reserved exclusively for Ginger Hut guests. The Paddock hot tub and cold plunge are marked 16 on the site map.
• Request your preferred day using our hot-tub request form, giving at least 48 hours’ notice. Each booking is for one day only; extra days must be requested and confirmed separately. Requests are subject to availability and an additional charge.
• We supply the firewood and you heat the hot tub yourself. Allow around 5–6 hours for the Paddock tub, or 2–3 hours for Ginger Hut’s tub, adding logs roughly every 40–60 minutes as instructed.
• Once availability has been checked, we will send the hire information, disclaimer and instructions for you to read and acknowledge. Your chosen day is only booked once Michelle has confirmed it.