Historic Queen at Chester Hotel Reopens as UK's First Handwritten Collection Property
The landmark hotel has reopened following a multi-million-pound refurbishment as the first UK member of Accor's boutique Handwritten Collection.
By Chester Standard
One of Chester's best-known historic hotels has reopened following a major refurbishment, becoming the first property in the UK to join Accor's Handwritten Collection.
The Queen at Chester Hotel, which stands opposite Chester Railway Station, has welcomed guests once again after a reported £5 million investment designed to modernise the building while preserving its Victorian character and heritage.
Originally opened in 1860, the hotel has long been one of Chester's most recognisable landmarks and has welcomed generations of visitors to the city. Over the years it has hosted a number of notable figures, including author Charles Dickens and actress Lillie Langtry, reflecting its long-standing place in the city's history.
The reopening marks the UK debut of Accor's Handwritten Collection, a growing portfolio of individually designed hotels that combine local character with the services of an international hospitality group. The collection has expanded rapidly since its launch and now includes more than 50 hotels worldwide.
The Queen offers 218 bedrooms, including family accommodation and suites, alongside a range of dining facilities. The refurbishment has also refreshed the hotel's public areas while retaining many of the architectural features that have made the building a distinctive part of Chester's cityscape for more than 160 years.
Accor said the opening represents an important milestone in the expansion of the Handwritten Collection across the UK and Ireland, while LGH Hotel Management, which operates the property, said the investment aims to strengthen Chester's appeal as a destination for both leisure and business travellers.
The hotel's location directly opposite Chester Railway Station places it within easy walking distance of the city centre, the historic Roman walls, Chester Cathedral and the Rows, making it one of the city's most accessible hotels for visitors arriving by rail.
The reopening adds to continued investment in Chester's hospitality sector, with the city remaining one of the North West's leading tourism destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year through its mix of heritage, shopping, culture and major events.
The Queen at Chester Hotel is now open to guests following the completion of its refurbishment and rebranding.