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Three new spa appointments at The Nici

The hotel group is expanding its portfolio and has appointed a new head of spa, plus two spa directors

UK

By Wendy Golledge

31 July 2026

thenici.com/
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The Nici Group, which opened two new properties earlier this summer, has now revealed its newly appointed spa team.

Charmaine Harbour joins the brand as head of spa, while Alisha Parnell and Dee England take on spa director roles.

Following the success of its flagship location, The Nici Bournemouth, the group has opened The Nici Newquay and The Nici New Forest.

With more than 25 years’ experience in the spa industry, Harbour will oversee spa operations across the three sites.

Formerly spa director at Beaverbrook, her experience includes leadership roles with Harbour Hotels, Champneys and Macdonald hotels.

“I’m incredibly excited to be joining The Nici group at such a pivotal stage in its growth. As the brand continues to expand across the UK, bringing its distinctive approach to wellness and hospitality to new destinations, this is a fantastic opportunity to help evolve its spa and wellbeing offering.”

Charmaine Harbour

Head of spa, The Nici

“My vision is to create a thriving Joyconomy at The Nici’s spas, one that places wellbeing, connection and meaningful experiences at its heart,” continues Harbour.

“Our focus will also be on maintaining a strong spa presence that complements each hotel’s unique ethos and identity.”

Outstanding wellness journeys

At The Nici Newquay, which has opened in the former Hotel Victoria, Dee England will head up operations as spa director.

“With more than 28 years of experience in the wellness and spa industry, I have worked across luxury hotel, spas, resorts, private wellness facilities and clinical settings,” says England.

“Opening a new spa is a unique opportunity to shape a wellness destination from the very beginning. I look forward to working alongside our team to deliver outstanding wellness journeys and to becoming a valued destination for visitors and the local community.”

L-R: Alisha Parnell and Dee England have joined The Nici group as spa directors

Spaces that inspire relaxation

The Nici Newquay, a clifftop retreat overlooking the Atlantic, will have a comprehensive spa with facilities including a 20m indoor pool, thermal suite and seven treatment rooms. A defining feature will be a dramatic clifftop pool, with a coastal view sauna.

At The Nici New Forest, Alisha Parnell has assumed the role of spa director.

Formerly director of leisure and tourism at Quob Park Estate, she has also held roles at the Solent Hotel & Spa and the Limetree Spa in Salisbury. She began her career aboard luxury international cruise lines including Silversea and Windstar.

“Wellbeing and relaxation have always been at the heart of my career,” says Parnell. “Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work across various hotel spas, helping to create environments where guests feel truly cared for and teams can thrive.”

“As I step into the role of spa director at The Nici New Forest, I’m excited to be part of bringing this new spa to life. I’m driven by a genuine love for the spa industry and creating spaces that inspire relaxation, enhance wellbeing and deliver outstanding service.”

Alisha Parnell

Spa director, The Nici New Forest

The 118-bedroom Nici New Forest sits within 23 acres, directly on the banks of the Lymington River, with views across the Solent.

The group is aiming to create a flagship wellness destination for the region, with a fully immersive spa.

Facilities will include an indoor pool, extensive thermal and hydro experiences, ten treatment rooms and relaxation spaces, alongside a fitness studio.

Evolve Organic Beauty will be the exclusive spa partner for all three Nici spas. BC SoftWear will supply towels, robes and spa linens to both new properties.

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