PLATINUM SPA 2024
THE BOTHY BY WILDSMITH
AT HECKFIELD PLACE
A thoroughly considered journey with bespoke rituals to encourage deep relaxation
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t’s the small details that make The Bothy by Wildsmith, in Hampshire, UK, truly unique. A birdsong soundscape, recorded by a sound artist who camped in the grounds for three nights, plays throughout the space; the pure essential oil scent permeating every room was created on site by a Japanese mixologist from At-Aroma. From the micro-greens and lemon verbena tea served pre-treatment to a tiny candle burned to depict the ideal post-treatment relaxation time, every aspect of the guest journey has been well honed. The result is a deeply connected wellbeing experience.
A new way to spa
The 45-room Heckfield Place hotel was opened by Dr Gerald Chan after a painstaking restoration in 2018, and The Bothy is a total evolution of the estate’s earlier Little Bothy wellness space. As well as six treatment rooms, including two doubles, facilities include the Waters – an exceptional chlorine-free Aqua San pool by Pool San. The Oak Terrace is home to the spa’s outdoor hydrothermal experiences by Dröm – a sauna, steam room, experiential shower
“Heckfield is a wellness-first destination. We want guests to embrace the experience, reconnect with nature’s pace, slow down, breathe deeper and disengage from the world.” Katherine Pye, general manager, Wildsmith Skin
and ice-cold bucket shower. There are two fitness rooms and a movement studio, but much of the dedicated exercise menu takes place outside, including forest walks, cold water immersion and farm fit (a circuit-based class using farm tools). The team also offers performative aufguss sauna sessions. The Sun Room serves a plant-based menu by Heckfield’s culinary director Skye Gyngell, 98
PLATINUM RESOURCE 2024
