Turn up, check in, chill out – the secret behind award-winning spa’s success

Back in 2021, during the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, The Spa at Breedon Priory opened its doors, offering five-star spa day escapes. Since then, the business has grown into a multi-award-winning concern. Here, director Sigourney Gates explains why we all deserve to take time out for ourselves.

Hi Sigourney, First of all, tell us a bit about yourself, your background and your business.

I come from a family with a background in childcare, running children’s day nurseries and after-school clubs.

My own career began in personal training, which gave me a solid foundation in health, wellbeing and client-focused service.

In 2013, I took on the challenge of running Breedon Priory Health Club – a boutique facility with around 1,200 members.

We’ve built a reputation for providing a high-standard environment to train in, with a real focus on personal service and community.

In 2021, we expanded the business and opened our spa. It’s a family-run venture that was developed during the pandemic – which certainly brought challenges, from operational restrictions to rising material costs. Despite that, we’ve created something really special.

The spa has gone on to become multi-award-winning, centred around our ethos of ‘live first-class’.

We offer five-star spa day escapes that are all about helping people reset, recharge and feel their very best.

When did The Spa at Breedon Priory first open and what was the motivation behind it?

The Spa at Breedon Priory first opened its doors in October 2021, with the build being completed during the challenges of the Covid pandemic.

As a family, we have always enjoyed visiting spas and developed an appreciation for the finer details that define exceptional service.

However, we found that venues promising something truly special often fell short, missing the final touches that could elevate a spa day from pleasant to unforgettable.

Inspired by this, we visited as many spas as we could all over the country, gathering our favourite elements from each and combining them with the first-class service we felt was missing in this industry, bringing our vision of The Spa at Breedon Priory to life.

Tell us about the achievements of the business to date.

Since opening, The Spa at Breedon Priory has become a multi-award-winning destination, recognised for its expectational service, tranquil setting and unwavering commitments to excellence.

The spa has earned numerous awards, including Professional Beauty Boutique Spa of the Year 2023, Best Spa in East Midlands and East at the Good Spa Guide Awards in 2023 and 2024.

It was also named Best Experience at Leicestershire Tourism and Hospitality Awards for two consecutive years and has been a finalist for Best Sustainable Spa in 2023, 2024 and 2025.

With an average Google Review rating of 4.9 and a TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award in 2025, guest feedback reflects the consistent high standards delivered by our team.

Beyond these, we are immensely proud of our people: we maintain high staff retention rates and are committed to nurturing talent, recently celebrating our first apprentice who achieved a distinction in Holistic and Wellbeing Therapist Level 3.

What facilities/services does The Spa at Breedon Priory offer?

The Spa at Breedon Priory offers an excellent range of facilities and services, designed to truly transform your day and create lasting memories.

Our thoughtfully designed spa features a variety of treatment rooms, both dual and single, alongside a serene post-treatment room boasting views of the gardens and surrounding countryside.

Guests can unwind in our tranquil slumber room or our indoor relaxation room.

The thermal suite includes four purpose-built cabins, an invigorating ice fountain, and a 3- experience shower.

Our two pools are heated for ultimate comfort and relaxation with a perfect view of the gardens and views.

For those seeking even more seclusion, The Hideaway offers an exclusive retreat complete with a hot tub, loungers, sofa and chairs and the dual treatment room.

We also offer private hire options for half or full days, ideal for celebrations or as a special thank you to employees.

This exclusive use of the spa allows you and your group to enjoy complete privacy, personalised service and a truly memorable experience tailored to your needs.

Our beautifully arranged restaurant and terrace provides the perfect setting to enjoy our carefully curated menu, with dishes crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

From arrival to departure, you’ll be greeted by our warm, attentive team, whose first-class service is frequently praised by guests.

Every element of your experience is designed with care, ensuring your spa day is nothing short of exceptional.

Who are your customers?

Our guests come from all walks of life, but they all share one thing in common – a real appreciation for time well spent.

We welcome everyone from busy professionals needing a midweek reset, to couples and friends celebrating something special, or just enjoying a well-earned catch-up.

Many of our visitors are local to the East Midlands, though plenty travel from further afield to experience what we offer.

Some come through thoughtful gifts – a birthday treat, an anniversary surprise, or a little ‘just because’ moment.

We also see a number of our health club members extending their wellness journey with a spa day.

Whether it’s a regular self-care ritual or a once-in-a-while escape, our guests come to unwind, recharge, and enjoy a day that feels completely centred around them.

What can people expect when booking into The Spa at Breedon Priory?

A spa day at The Spa at Breedon Priory is all about slowing down and switching off.

From the moment you arrive, our friendly team takes care of everything, so you can fully relax.

Enjoy peaceful surroundings, carefully tailored treatments, and delicious seasonal food – whether it’s a light lunch or something more indulgent.

Every detail is designed to help you unwind, reset and leave feeling truly restored. It’s a calm, welcoming experience you won’t forget.

With more attention being paid these days to mental wellbeing, why do you think its important people take time out?

Taking time out from a busy schedule is essential for your mental wellbeing. It gives you the space to reset, clear your head and reconnect with yourself away from everyday pressures.

Stepping back, even just for a day, is a powerful reminder that you deserve care, calm and exceptional experiences.

Slowing down both the mind and body creates the clarity we often miss in the rush – helping you feel more balanced, more present, and better equipped to face what comes next.

Why did you become a Marketing Derby Bondholder? Tell us a bit more about the Bondholder event you hosted earlier this year.

We decided to become a Marketing Derby Bondholder after speaking with an existing member, who spoke highly of the support, opportunities and connections the scheme provides.

Our goal in joining was to grow our B2B presence – offering businesses a way to reward or incentivise their teams with spa days, afternoon teas in The Garden Café and other wellbeing experiences.

We recently hosted our first Bondholder event, which was a fantastic success.

Guests enjoyed a guided tour of The Spa, sampled our canapés, and had the chance to experience the relaxing atmosphere and exceptional service we’re proud to offer.

How important is the team to running a successful business?

A successful business is nothing without a strong, committed team behind it.

At the heart of everything we do is a group of passionate, skilled individuals who genuinely care about the experience we offer.

From the warm welcome at reception to the attention to detail in treatments, food and service – it’s our team that brings the spa to life every day.

Their dedication, professionalism and pride in their work creates the atmosphere our guests remember and return for.

Everyone plays a part, and it’s that shared sense of purpose, care, and teamwork that allows us to consistently deliver exceptional standards.

Do you have any plans for the future? For example, expansion, new innovations etc.

Looking ahead, we’re excited to expand our offering with the addition of overnight accommodation, allowing guests to extend their time with us and fully immerse themselves in the experience.

We’re also committed to continually refining every aspect of what we do, ensuring we consistently deliver a first-class service that exceeds expectations.

How do people get in touch?

To get in touch with us, you can visit our website at https://breedonprioryspa.co.uk/, where you’ll find full details of our spa days and experiences.

You can also email us at enquiries@breedonprioryspa.co.uk or give us a call on 01332 985080.

Our friendly team will be happy to help with bookings, questions, or anything else you need.