Crossbasket Castle In Blantyre Proposes Luxury Spa Development

Published on November 17, 2025

The Crossbasket Castle estate in Blantyre, known as a luxury hotel and wedding venue, will soon offer a wellness spa as one of their new features. The spa will be located in the former Crossbasket Nursery, which closed in October 2025. The redesign will positively influence the local tourism sector by providing an additional premium service to clientele and making the castle a top-tier tourist location in Scotland.

Government Proposal to Repurpose the Nursery Building

In October 2025, a formal planning application was lodged to transform the nursery into a wellness spa. The proposals include the creation of six treatment rooms, state-of-the-art changing areas, wet and dry experience zones, and a comfortable waiting area. The plans are part of an ongoing effort by the owners of Crossbasket Castle, Steve and Alison Timoney, to further enhance the property’s status as a high-end hotel and wedding venue. The application is currently under review, with a decision expected by January 2026.

The nursery’s closure in October affected 110 children and 30 staff, a situation that caused considerable disruption for local families. However, the nursery’s closure has paved the way for this new tourism-focused development, which will create more jobs and provide a new leisure option for both hotel guests and visitors to the area. Local authorities have confirmed that public consultations are underway, and the development is expected to align with both community and environmental standards.

Boosting the Local Economy Through Tourism

The introduction of a luxury spa will likely have a substantial economic impact on Blantyre and the wider South Lanarkshire region. Tourism is an essential contributor to the local economy, and the spa will add to the area’s appeal as a destination for high-end visitors. This move is expected to attract a broader demographic of tourists seeking wellness experiences alongside the rich history and scenic beauty that Crossbasket Castle already offers.

Crossbasket Castle, originally a derelict A-listed building, has been carefully restored by its current owners, who purchased the estate in 2011. The transformation from a run-down property into a luxury hotel and wedding venue has already seen a boost in tourism, with the estate regularly hosting events, weddings, and overnight stays. The proposed spa will further increase the estate’s value as a comprehensive destination for relaxation, weddings, and corporate retreats.

Supporting Sustainable Tourism and Community Development

Local government bodies have expressed support for the redevelopment plans, noting the importance of maintaining a balance between preserving the historic nature of Crossbasket Castle and promoting sustainable tourism. The redevelopment of the former nursery building into a wellness spa will help ensure that tourism growth is managed in a way that supports both the local community and the environment.

The spa’s development is part of a broader strategy to create a multi-faceted tourism hub that caters to both local and international visitors. As the region sees increasing demand for high-quality tourism experiences, the spa is expected to serve as a major attraction, drawing guests not only from Scotland but from across the UK and abroad.

Local Concerns Over Nursery Closure

The closure of Crossbasket Nursery, although initially a cause for concern for parents and staff, has now been seen as an opportunity to repurpose the space for a more tourism-centric facility. Government sources have indicated that the redevelopment will be closely monitored to ensure that it aligns with the best interests of both the local community and the tourism sector.

While the closure of the nursery affected local families, the decision to repurpose the building into a luxury spa is seen as a way to strengthen Blantyre’s tourism offerings. The development will create new employment opportunities within the hospitality sector, which will be beneficial for the local workforce. It also highlights the region’s potential as a key destination for high-end tourism, offering both leisure and wellness experiences to visitors.

A Promising Future for Blantyre’s Tourism

Crossbasket Castle gets a spa which undoubtedly will attract tourists coming to Blantyre to unwind and getaway. Local businesses and the South Lanarkshire economy will benefit greatly. The area is high-end, and the spa will encourage even more luxury tourism.

Visitors from all over will keep coming to Blantyre. More tourists will mean more active participation within the growing economy of Scotland. The spa with the eco lodges and other facilities will really complete the offer.