Sunbed Membership Plan Costs in the UK
Sunbed membership plans offer unlimited or discounted access to UV tanning beds at salons across the UK. Most memberships include different tiers—basic monthly access, premium unlimited sessions, or pay-as-you-go credits—so you can choose a plan that matches your tanning frequency. Expect registration, skin type assessment, and safety guidance to ensure responsible tanning.
🌞 UK tanning salons must comply with strict regulations, including age restrictions (18+), session limits, and protective eyewear requirements. Many salons now offer stand-up booths, facial tanners, and rapid-tanning beds alongside traditional lie-down units, with membership pricing varying by equipment type and session duration.
If you prefer sunless tanning, compare our guides to spray tan studios and other tanning options to see which approach suits your skin type and lifestyle.
How Much is a Sunbed Membership in the UK?
Pay-per-session (no membership): £8 to £15 per session at salons like Tanning Shop branches or Beauty Base nationwide.
Basic monthly membership (4–6 sessions): £25 to £45 at Sunbed City locations or Tanning Express salons, with rollover credits.
Unlimited monthly membership: £50 to £80 at premium tanning chains, allowing daily sessions subject to safety guidelines.
Annual membership (pre-paid): £250 to £600 for 12 months, often with one month free or bonus facial tanning sessions.
Student or off-peak memberships: £20 to £35 per month for weekday-only access or student discounts.
Regional Price Differences in the UK
London (Central): Prices in Knightsbridge, Mayfair, or Covent Garden typically run 35–45% higher due to premium rents and high-end equipment. Expect to pay £12 to £20 per session and £60 to £100 for unlimited monthly memberships.
Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds: Major cities outside London offer competitive pricing, usually £8 to £12 per session and £40 to £65 for unlimited memberships, representing savings of 30–40% compared to central London.
Smaller cities (Edinburgh, Cardiff, Newcastle): Regional salons often charge £6 to £10 per session and £30 to £55 for unlimited memberships, making tanning more accessible while maintaining quality standards and safety compliance.
Factors that Affect Sunbed Membership Pricing
🌞 Equipment type
Stand-up booths, rapid-tanning beds, or facial tanners cost more to operate than standard lie-down units, reflected in higher session fees.
📍 Salon location
Central London rent and staffing push prices up, while suburban or regional salons can offer similar equipment at lower rates.
⏱️ Session duration
Longer sessions (15–20 minutes) cost more than quick 6–10 minute sessions, with pricing scaling by time.
📦 Membership tier
Unlimited plans cost more upfront but offer better value for frequent tanners, while pay-per-session suits occasional users.
🎓 Student or off-peak discounts
Weekday-only or student memberships reduce costs by 20–30% but limit access times.
How to Save Money on Sunbed Memberships
📦 Commit to annual plans
Pre-paying for 12 months often includes one month free, reducing monthly cost to around £35 instead of £50.
🕘 Choose off-peak memberships
Weekday-only plans cost £15–£25 less per month if you can tan during off-peak hours.
🎓 Use student discounts
Many salons offer 15–20% off memberships with valid student ID, making tanning more affordable.
🧴 Tan responsibly
Following safety guidelines and spacing sessions appropriately extends membership value and protects your skin.
FAQs
How often can I use a sunbed?
UK regulations recommend no more than 20 sessions per year, with 48 hours between visits. Salons enforce these limits for safety.
Is it safe?
UV tanning increases skin cancer risk. Always use protective eyewear, follow session limits, and consider spray tan alternatives.
Can I cancel my membership?
Most salons allow cancellation with 30 days notice, but check terms before signing. Annual plans may have different cancellation policies.
Do memberships include facial tanners?
Some premium memberships include facial tanning sessions, while others charge extra. Check what's included before signing up.
Conclusion
Sunbed memberships range from £25 basic monthly plans to £80 unlimited access, with pay-per-session rates spanning £8 to £20 and annual plans averaging £400. London prices run 35–45% higher than regional cities, so compare salons, commit to annual plans for savings, and always follow safety guidelines so every tanning session protects your skin while delivering the glow you want. ✨
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Jane Smith |
| Am British, live in London (1985–present) |
