Spa group Champneys has acquired iconic UK spa Buxton Crescent, following a £32 million of investment supported by investment fund manager Cheyne Capital.
The spa will become the seventh destination spa in Champneys' portfolio as the group celebrates its 100-year anniversary.
Buxton Crescent is a five-star, 81-bedroom hotel with a thermal pool, rooftop indoor-outdoor pool, restored Victorian baths, saunas, steam rooms and fitness studios.
The property also features seven private function rooms, including the Assembly Room for events of up to 186 guests.
Champneys chief executive Alan Whitely said, "Our 100th year is a celebration of wellness innovation, and Buxton Crescent perfectly aligns with our vision."
He added, “We are thrilled to combine our expertise with this historic spa, blending centuries-old heritage with modern luxury and care. Our aim is to create a sanctuary where guests can truly focus on their health, recharge their energy and be inspired.”
Refurbishment to modernise spa and wellness spaces
The £32m investment from Cheyne Capital will also fund a comprehensive upgrade of all bedrooms, public spaces, spa and wellness facilities, and food and beverage concepts across the group’s six existing properties.
This encompases the group's four spa resorts: Tring in Hertfordshire, Henlow Grange in Bedfordshire, Forest Mere in Hampshire and Springs in Leicestershire, as well as its two spa hotels: Eastwell Manor in Kent and Mottram Hall in Cheshire.
The extensive refurbishment programme aims to elevate the guest experience and enhance the sustainability credentials of the historic properties.
Upgrades will include the introduction of energy-efficient systems, enhanced landscaping, and measures to reduce waste and improve environmental performance across the portfolio.
The work will also improve treatment areas and spa facilities, aligning with the brand’s ambition to remain a leader in wellness innovation.
Whiteley said the investment will help the brand modernise while protecting its heritage: "This renewed investment allows us to build on the legacy of Dorothy Purdew OBE and her son Stephen Purdew and continue modernising our resorts, investing in our people, and improving every guest experience while staying true to our heritage."
Champneys expands global footprint in wellness tourism
As well as reinvesting in its UK properties, Champneys is accelerating its growth both domestically and internationally.
The group is expanding its management and franchising model, following the recent opening of its first overseas location at the Gran Marbella Resort & Beach Club in Spain. Further UK-based operations are expected to be announced soon.
The investment underscores Champneys’ ambition to strengthen its position within the fast-growing global wellness tourism sector, combining its legacy of British spa with contemporary wellness.
