wellness pioneers.
100 years of spa excellence
For over a century, Champneys has been at the forefront of wellness, revolutionising spa experiences with innovative treatments, holistic therapies, and an unwavering dedication to self-care. From our humble beginnings to our pioneering role in the industry, we’ve continuously set the standard for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Join us in celebrating a century of transformative wellness, and discover how our innovation has shaped spa experiences over the decades.
Our spa story...
Founded by pioneering naturopath Stanley Lief, Champneys opened as the UK’s very first health farm, championing a holistic approach to wellbeing. Lief’s forward-thinking philosophy, uniting nutrition, movement, and rest, became the foundation for wellness as we know it.
During a time of global unrest, Clementine Churchill, wife of Prime Minister Winston Churchill, sought refuge here – resting her nerves and finding calm amidst the chaos. Even in the darkest hours, Champneys remained a sanctuary of peace.
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In the 1950s, hydrotherapy was introduced to our health farm experience. Therapies included sitz baths (pictured above), plunge baths, shower baths, spray baths, foot baths and spinal applications. By harnessing the power of water to stimulate circulation and promote detoxification, hydrotherapy quickly became a cornerstone of our wellness offerings.
Champneys has been instrumental in bringing global influences to the UK spa scene. It was in the '70s that we infused Aromatherapy and Reflexology into our spa treatments. Combining essential oils and ancient healing techniques, we set a new standard for holistic wellness that plays a huge part the industry today.
It was during the late '70s and early '80s that we began introducing practices like yoga and meditation to a wider audience. By weaving Eastern philosophies into our spa experience, Champneys helped bring mind-body wellness into the British mainstream – long before it was a trend.
Champneys was ahead of the curve, introducing wellness bootcamps back in the '90s – long before fitness retreats became mainstream. What set us apart then, and still does today, is our holistic approach. Our bootcamps have always included time for restoration, with full access to spa facilities and expertly curated treatments.
In the early 2000s, Champneys introduced cutting-edge anti-ageing skincare and advanced facial treatments. Using the latest in medical-grade technology, we offered personalised beauty and rejuvenation treatments that have remained top of the line.
The Champneys Collection is launched in partnership with Boots International, bringing the luxury of our spa experience into homes across the country. This exclusive product line marks a milestone in our journey – making everyday wellness more accessible.
In an age where life moves faster than ever, Champneys remains a sanctuary for stillness. Our spa experiences invite guests to reconnect – with themselves, with nature, and with the art of mindful living whether that be on a spa day, stay or even on one of our transformative retreats.
Since 1925, Champneys has been at the forefront of spa innovation. From our humble beginnings in the picturesque English countryside, we’ve continuously pushed the boundaries of relaxation and self-care. In these 100 years, we’ve not only pioneered treatments but also defined the very concept of modern wellness, setting trends that the industry continues to follow.
Throughout the decades, Champneys has been synonymous with rejuvenation, luxury, and therapeutic innovation. From introducing new massage techniques to offering ground-breaking wellness programmes, we’ve never stopped evolving.
The Founder
Stanley Lief’s journey to health began with a diagnosis of an incurable heart condition, giving him just five years to live. Seeking hope, his family moved to South Africa, where the climate brought some relief.
As a young man, Stanley discovered a magazine about physical exercise, and with dedication, he grew stronger. His curiosity led him to a publication by Bernarr McFadden on Nature Cure, osteopathy, and physical culture, which inspired him to follow its principles of diet, exercise, and natural healing.
By the age of 16, Stanley was a picture of health. Driven by the transformative power of Nature Cure, he travelled to the United States to study naturopathy and osteopathy. At 35 his passion for holistic wellness ultimately led him to open Champneys – a place where healing, vitality, and wellbeing come together.
The Innovator
Dorothy Purdew’s story is one of vision, resilience, and a lifelong passion for wellbeing. Raised in Clapham, South London, Dorothy came from humble beginnings, but her determination saw her rise to become one of the UK’s most successful businesswomen.
With just £60 and a dream, she launched her first slimming class at the age of 38. What began with five attendees grew into a flourishing network of over 70 slimming clubs across the South East by the late 1970s. Her journey into holistic wellness began in earnest with the opening of Frimleys health farm, marking the start of something extraordinary.
In 1981, alongside her husband Bob and son Stephen, Dorothy took her next bold step: the purchase of Henlow Grange.
Over the next 20 years, the Purdew family expanded the portfolio with Springs, Forest Mere, and Champneys Tring – bringing all four retreats together under the Champneys name.
Her pioneering work was honoured in 2008 with an OBE, a testament to her impact on the spa industry and charitable causes and her legacy is at the heart of who we are today.
New treatments, ancient roots
100 years later, the innovation continues as we unveil our most rejuvenating treatments yet. Combining a century of expertise with classic treatment methods, these two experiences are a testament to our dedication to helping our guests feel their very best.
Think pure relaxation, radiant skin, and a touch of spa magic – because 100 years of wellness calls for something truly special.
"Patients continually state that the type of massage used here far surpasses that given at any other clinic or hydro."
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