Room 240, Chester Grosvenor, Chester

1 November 2014

Words: Mark Evans / Images: Chester Grosvenor, Chester

The historic city of Chester, in the North West of England, can trace its roots back to Roman times, so it’s no surprise to find that Chester Grosvenor also has an illustrious past. Completed in 1863 for Richard Grosvenor, the 2nd Marquess Of Westminster, the hotel occupies a historic location on Eastgate, in the centre of Chester, within the city’s ancient walls. Now owned by the 6th Duke Of Westminster, the Grade II listed building has lost none of the charm, with its half-timbered black and white Tudor-style façade a joy to behold. The period style carries on into the interior, where a high chandelier dominates the main reception. 

Bedrooms, however, shy away from traditional styling, opting for a mix of classic and contemporary; it works, just, although there’s an argument they could have nailed their colours to the mast of one or the other. The gym’s small, and it was slightly annoying to have to pay extra for the best thing on the breakfast menu, the full English, but they’re small niggles given the hotel’s overall warm feel and – it’s hard not to use that word again – charm.
chestergrosvenor.com 

Internet Speed: 3.7MB free
Pillows: Four
iPod dock: Yes
Club Sandwich delivery time: 18 minutes
Complimentary snacks: Water
Toiletry brand: Plantation
Daily newspaper: The Guardian, The Times on request
Extras: Tea, coffee TV channels: 15