Warminster hotel bought by Bath operator

Boutique hotelier Kaleidoscope Collection has acquired Bishopstrow Hotel and Spa in Warminster for £5.5 million.

The acquisition of the historic country house Bishopstrow Hotel & Spa comes after a difficult time for the UK’s hospitality sector, but the new owners say it marks the start of a new chapter for guests and businesses across the South West, and will create 30 new jobs. 

Known for its eclectic and spirited style with relaxed dining, the company already boasts an impressive portfolio of independent hotel transformations such as Homewood and more recently The Bird – both in Bath.  

Bishopstrow Hotel & Spa, set to open on July 1, will offer 32 rooms, spa and wellness facilities and the Maple Bar and Terrace – all reimagined in the unique and playful style of the new owners, Christa and Ian Taylor.

Set within 27 acres of countryside along the River Wylye with the Doric Temple and other historic Grade II listed monuments, the hotel has ambitions to be heavily outdoor-oriented making use of its vast green space and position Bishopstrow as a ‘destination hotel’ whereby guests can take advantage of its proximity to the spa town of Bath and the Salisbury Plains.

The Hotel will also cater for boutique weddings of up to 40 guests.
 
Co-owner Ian Taylor said: “The hospitality sector has arguably been hit harder than any other both within the local and national economy. But it has the potential to bounce back stronger than ever before. 

“We understand that there was significant interest in Bishopstrow Hotel & Spa from investors both in terms of its prestigious heritage and historic grounds, and a spike in the staycation market as a direct consequence of the pandemic.” 

Kaleidoscope Collection is currently recruiting for a variety of roles including restaurant, kitchen, bar and spa staff.

It is also seeking to work with local traders, suppliers and artists across the South West to conglomerate the region’s boast-worthy talent within the Hotel.  

The acquisition was handled by Matthew Smith of the hotels team at Knight Frank.