Pippa Hartwell is appointed spa director at Bishopstrow Hotel

Former professional spa trainer joins the Wiltshire property from her previous role with the Celtic Collection

By Wendy Golledge

19 September 2024

www.bishopstrowhotel.com

Pippa Hartwell has been appointed as spa director by Bishopstrow Hotel and Spa, part of Kaleidoscope Hotels.

With a long and varied career in spa, Hartwell joins Bishopstrow from her position as head of spa operations at the Celtic Manor Resort, part of the Celtic Collection.

Hartwell began her career as a therapist in north Wales, before moving to work at Chewton Glen in the New Forest, progressing to senior head manager.

She has worked for Stoke Park as spa health and racquet manager and FJB Hotels as group spa manager, as well as at Decléor as a professional spa trainer.

“Bishopstrow is a hotel that used to drive past every day and I’ve seen first hand how Kaleidoscope’s investment into the property has led to its progression. They’re now investing to improve the spa facilities, so it’s an exciting time to have joined the brand.”

Pippa Hartwell

Spa director, Bishopstrow Hotel

Wellness at Bishopstrow Hotel

Current facilities in the boutique spa include a steam room, sauna, rasul and monsoon shower as well as indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs.

Plans are underway to refurbish the spa and add additional facilities, to expand its offering.

“Bishopstrow sits within 30 acres of countryside so outdoor space will be an important part of our redevelopment,” said Hartwell.

“We’re looking to develop a spa garden and outdoor spa space, with a hydro pool alongside our outdoor pool. Planned investment will also include a new thermal suite, additional treatment rooms and new relaxation areas inside the spa.”

Outdoor pool and terrace — The spa has indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs

Built in 1817, Bishopstrow is a Georgian mansion and former nunnery now owned by Ian and Christa Taylor, founders of the Kaleidoscope Collection.

The brand also owns Homewood Hotel & Spa and the Bird Hotel, both in Bath.

In 2023, the 30-room Bishopstrow Hotel added two new garden spa suites, following a £120,000 investment. The suites include private hot tubs and outdoor slipper baths. Treatments in the spa use products by Sothys and Elemis.

close up head shot of man in checked shirt

"We are delighted Pippa has joined our leadership team; the spa is at the core of our repositioning strategy for Bishopstrow and Pippa brings a wealth of experience to guide us on this journey.”

Jonathan Walker

Managing director, Bishopstrow Hotel and Spa

“We have invested heavily in the hotel and spa over the last few years,” said Jonathan Walker, managing director, Bishopstrow Hotel and Spa.

“We will continue to invest in the Spa at Bishopstrow in the coming 12 months, to create one of the leading spa hotels in the UK.”

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